Does your baby have a misshaped or flat head? Plagiocephaly is a common condition that affects babies worldwide and is where the babies head develops unevenly. Mostly happens due to babies sleeping on their back too much with their head turned to one side over the first few months. This is referred to as positional plagiocephaly.

Things you may be able to notice;

• Flattening on the side or back of the head.

• Baby isn’t turning their neck/head both ways easily.

• One ear is pushed more forward than the other side.

• Facial asymmetry; uneven eyes, cheek bones or lower jaw.

For babies where treatment is necessary, early intervention is key. This is because the greatest amount of correction will occur between 6-12 months of age while the cranial bones are still moving.

Some at home recommendations

• Head repositioning - so baby moves their head more often.

• Increase tummy time to improve range of motion.

• Lay baby across your lap.

• Tiger hold, on your arm.

• Laying them on your chest whilst you are laying down.

• Laying bub over a fitball.

Chiropractic care can help to manage plagiocephaly and treatment is safe, effective and gentle for babies. Treatment would include cranial adjusting, stretching, body work and education. In most cases plagiocephaly is successfully treated without surgery. 

Your Edgewater Chiropractor Dr Karli has a special interest in treating paediatrics, if you would like to make an appointment with Dr Karli you can book online HERE

If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to call or email us.

See you at FORM Chiropractic soon!

Suite 13, 1 The Gateway, Edgewater, 6027