Plagiocephaly

What is it?

Plagiocephaly or "flat head syndrome" is a very common and treatable disorder. It develops when an infant’s soft skull becomes flattened in one or more area secondary to constant pressure to that portion of the skull. Studies show that 20 to 25 percent of infants that sleep on their back develop some degree of plagiocephaly.

Causes of Plagiocephaly

› Position in the womb

› Prematurity

› Congenital Muscular Torticollis or Positional Torticollis

› Excessive time spent laying on the same portion of the head

Effects of Plagiocephaly

› Misalignment of eyes and/or different eye shapes - possible astigmatism or strabismus can develop as a result

› Asymmetry of the ears - one ear is more positioned forward than the other

› Flattening of the jaw (mandible)

› Flattening of the cheek opposite to the flattened skull

› Trouble with lip closure (assumption of midline) that could result in poor feeding

› Future difficulty with wearing sporting helmets (football, baseball, cycling, etc.)

The earlier a baby begins treatment, the better and the faster the correction is! We recommend that once a flat spot is observed, it should be addressed immediately to prevent further flattening and the development of neck muscle tightness and weakness.

The in-office treatments will provide families with the knowledge-base behind the therapeutic interventions administered as well as receive a comprehensive home program customized to their child's specific needs and goals.

How Power of Movement PT
cares for Plagiocephaly

One Baby's Journey: From Severe to Mild Plagiocephaly in Just Six Weeks

Starting Therapy Early Made All the Difference

This sweet little one began pediatric physical therapy at Power of Movement Pediatric Therapy just before turning 3 months old due to plagiocephaly (head shape asymmetry).

Using a personalized treatment plan that included therapeutic positioning, hands-on treatment, targeted exercises, and a comprehensive home program, his family was em-POWER-ed with the tools and education needed to support his progress every day.

Just six weeks after his initial assessment, follow-up imaging demonstrated remarkable improvement. The facial asymmetry that had affected his forehead, cheek, and jaw had significantly resolved, and objective cranial measurements improved from the severe range to the mild range.

Because intervention began early and his family remained committed to the home program, this child achieved excellent improvement without requiring a cranial remolding helmet.

Every child is unique, and treatment recommendations and outcomes vary based on age, severity, and individual factors. Early evaluation and intervention provide the greatest opportunity to support healthy head shape and symmetrical development.