24/06/2025
Is Flat Head Syndrome Just a Cosmetic Issue?
👉 No, it's not.
👉 No, it doesn't correct itself.
👉 Yes, it should always be assessed and treated.
What causes it?
🔸 Prolonged time lying on the back
🔸 Limited neck mobility (e.g. torticollis)
🔸 Prematurity (softer skull + longer hospital stays)
🔸 Use of containers (car seats, swings, etc.)
🔸 Twin/multiple pregnancies
🔸 Restricted movement in the womb (e.g. breech, tight space)
🔸 Preferential head turning to one side
What can happen if left untreated?
🔹 Persistent head and facial asymmetry
🔹 Ear misalignment → recurrent ear infections
🔹 Blocked tear ducts → watery eyes & infections
🔹 Increased respiratory infections
🔹 Torticollis → limited neck movement
🔹 Functional cervical scoliosis
🔹 Asymmetric motor development
🔹 Delays in rolling, crawling, sitting
🔹 Jaw & bite problems (malocclusion)
🔹 Postural imbalance & poor balance
🔹 May require helmet therapy later
🔹 Emotional impact & self-esteem issues
🔹 Difficulty wearing helmets, glasses or hearing aids
⏱️ Treatment timing matters:
👐 Manual therapy & repositioning
✔️ Most effective between 0–6 months
✔️ Still helpful up to 9 months
✔️ Slower progress after 10–12 months
🪖 Helmet therapy (cranial orthosis)
✔️ Typically used between 5 and 18 months
✔️ Most effective before 12 months
✔️ Usually worn for 3 to 6 months, 23 hours/day
✔️ Requires specialist assessment
🎯 Early action = better results, fewer interventions.
If your baby shows a flat spot or always looks to one side, don’t wait.
💬 Talk to a pediatric therapist, physiotherapist, or osteopath.
Has your baby a flat head or any other cranial assymetry? I read you in the comments!!
