What is Plagiocephaly?

Plagiocephaly, commonly referred to as “flat head syndrome,” is a condition that affects many infants in their first few months of life. It’s characterized by a noticeable flat spot on the back or side of a baby’s head, often caused by prolonged pressure in one position. While helmets are often recommended to correct head shape, physical therapy offers a highly effective and conservative approach—often helping families avoid the need for helmeting altogether.

At Honeybee Physical Therapy, we specialize in gentle, personalized pediatric physical therapy that supports your child’s development while addressing conditions like plagiocephaly with care and confidence.

Plagiocephaly occurs when a baby’s soft skull becomes flattened due to constant pressure on one area. This can happen from:

• Sleeping in one position (often on the back)

• Limited tummy time

• Favoring one side of the head due to torticollis (tight neck muscles)

• Prolonged time in car seats, swings, or carriers

While flat spots may seem purely cosmetic, untreated plagiocephaly can affect head symmetry, facial alignment, and even a child's motor development.

Physical therapy is a first-line, conservative treatment for plagiocephaly—especially when started early (preferably before 6 months of age). At Honeybee Physical Therapy, our licensed pediatric physical therapists focus on:

1. Torticollis Evaluation and Treatment

Many babies with plagiocephaly also have torticollis. We assess your baby’s neck mobility and provide gentle stretches and exercises to improve range of motion and encourage head turning to both sides.

2. Positioning Education for Parents

We guide parents on how to adjust routines and environments to reduce pressure on the flat spot. This includes:

• Safe sleep alternatives that promote head movement

• Increasing supervised tummy time

• Encouraging variety in feeding and carrying positions

3. Motor Development Support

A baby with plagiocephaly may show delays in rolling, sitting, or crawling due to muscle imbalances. We create individualized plans to encourage proper motor skills and symmetrical development.

Physical therapy:

• Is non-invasive and pain-free

• Supports whole-body development

• Encourages parental involvement

• Often eliminates the need for helmeting if started early

Our goal is to empower families with knowledge and proactive tools to support their baby’s health without immediately resorting to more complex treatments.

Early intervention is key. The best outcomes are seen when therapy begins between 2 and 4 months of age, before the skull bones begin to harden. However, improvements can still be made in older infants.

If you notice a flat spot or your baby seems to favor one side, don’t wait—early assessment can make a world of difference!