Is Your Baby’s Head a Bit Flat? Don’t Panic. But Don’t Ignore It!

I meet parents every week who ask me the same question:

“Is it normal that one side of my baby’s head looks a bit flatter than the other?”

The short answer? It’s very common, but not something to brush off.

This condition is called Plagiocephaly, often referred to as “ flat head syndrome.” And no, it’s not just a cosmetic issue. It can affect posture, mobility, and even feeding in some cases.

Why Does It Happen?

 Newborns have soft, malleable skulls which is completely normal. But if they spend too much time lying in the same position (especially on their back or with limited neck movement), pressure can build up on one area of the skull, leading to flattening.

Some babies are also born with tight neck muscles or a limited range of motion, which can make them prefer turning their head one way. Over time, this habit reinforces the asymmetry.

And let’s be honest in the early months, we’re all just trying to survive. So a baby that sleeps well on their back feels like a win, even if it’s always on the same side.

What Can Osteopathy Do?

This is where my role as a pediatric osteopath comes in.

With gentle, hands-on techniques, I help babies regain mobility in the neck and upper body, release cranial tension, and stimulate balanced growth. There’s no cracking, no manipulation, just subtle, precise movements tailored to your baby’s age and needs.

More importantly, I work with parents, not just babies. I’ll show you simple positioning techniques, supervised tummy time tips, and home-based practices to support your baby’s development between sessions.

When Should You Seek Help?

Earlier is better ideally as soon as you notice any visible flattening, feeding issues, or head-turning preferences. The younger your baby is, the more responsive their skull is to gentle correction.

But don’t worry: it’s never “too late” to improve comfort and function.

If you’re unsure whether your baby might benefit from osteopathic care, feel free to reach out. I’d be happy to guide you.