About Flat Head Syndrome

Flat Head Syndrome is a condition that affects nearly 1 in 2 babies*. A baby’s head can develop a flat spot due to constant pressure on a specific area. Babies are vulnerable because their skull is soft and pliable during the first 6 months of age. Babies spend a lot of time lying on their backs, and may develop a flat spot where their head presses against a mattress, bouncer, stroller, swing or car seat. Though less common, babies can be born with flat spots from being restricted in utero or from the birthing process.

 

A baby’s skull becomes less soft and pliable as they grow. The younger the baby is, the easier it will be to prevent Flat Head Syndrome.

 

Flat Head Syndrome frequently involves 2 problems; plagiocephaly/brachycephaly and in a large number of children the associated problem referred to a torticollis.
Plagiocephaly/Brachycephaly is a flattening of the baby’s skull and torticollis refers to unbalanced neck muscles.