Flat Head Syndrome in Babies: When to Worry and What to Do

Let’s be honest: parenting is full of moments where you stop and think, Wait, is that normal? One of the more common ones? Noticing a little flat spot on your baby’s head.

It usually happens around the two to three-month mark. You’re doing the right thing by following safe sleep guidelines, bub’s getting plenty of rest on their back, and suddenly you notice the back of their head isn’t as round as it used to be. Maybe it’s a little lopsided. Maybe your mum commented on it once and now you can’t unsee it.

Sound familiar?

If you’re a parent in Brisbane, you’re definitely not alone. Between long naps in the pram on riverside walks, trips in the car seat between kindy drop-offs or bub chilling out in the bouncer while you grab five minutes to yourself, babies here spend a fair bit of time on their backs.

Flat head syndrome, or plagiocephaly, is super common. And while it can be a bit unsettling at first, it’s usually nothing to panic about. 

This article will walk you through what it is, when it usually sorts itself out and what to do if it doesn’t. We’ll also explore  how chiropractic care can gently support your baby’s development along the way.

So, what is flat head syndrome?

Flat head syndrome might sound serious, but it’s actually a simple and often temporary condition. The medical name is positional plagiocephaly. All it means is that one part of your baby’s head (usually the back or side) starts to flatten a little because of repeated pressure in the same spot.

This often occurs when babies spend a lot of time lying in the same position. Since their skulls are still soft and flexible to make room for all that rapid brain growth, they’re more prone to developing flat spots.
You might also notice things like:

• A tilt in the head

• One ear sitting slightly forward

• Bub always looking in the same direction

Most of the time, it’s more about appearance than function and it doesn’t usually affect brain development. But understandably, no parent would want to sit back and just “wait and see” without knowing what’s going on.

Can it fix itself?

Here’s the good news: in lots of cases, a baby’s flat head improves on its own with just a little help from you.

As your little one grows, they start spending more time upright. Think babywearing around Chermside, or sitting on your lap during weekend brunch. More time upright means less pressure on the back of the skull. 

At around four to six months, babies also get better at moving their own heads, helping even things out naturally. Add in a few simple tricks at home and you’re giving bub the best chance to round things out:

• Switch up the direction they face in the cot

• Offer regular tummy time during the day

• Alternate sides when feeding or carrying

• Limit long stretches in capsules or swings

It doesn’t need to be stressful or intense. Just small shifts throughout the day can make a big difference. Even holding them a little more often or doing playtime on the floor can help. Every bit of variety counts.

When to Take Action?

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, the flat spot doesn’t seem to be changing. Or maybe your baby strongly favours turning to one side and resists looking the other way. This is when it might be time to check in with someone.

Here are a few signs you can look out for:

• The flattening is getting worse after three months

• Bub always sleeps or rests with their head to the same side

• Their neck seems tight or stiff

• One side of the face or head is visibly more prominent

• They’re missing key movement milestones

In some cases, flat head syndrome is connected to a condition called torticollis, where one of the neck muscles is tight and makes it hard for the baby to turn their head evenly. It’s more common than you’d think and is very treatable.

If you notice any of the above, it’s a good idea to speak with your GP, maternal health nurse, or a practitioner who works with babies. The earlier you act, the easier it is to guide things back on track. Bub’s skull is most responsive to change in the first six months, so getting a second opinion early can make a real difference.

Treatment Options for Plagiocephaly: What Actually Works

The right treatment really depends on how flat your baby’s head is and what’s causing it.

For mild cases, you might just be given a few tweaks to your routine. This could include:

• Positional adjustments during sleep and play

• More frequent tummy time

• Safe baby wearing to reduce pressure

• Gentle neck stretches if needed

For moderate to more noticeable flattening, your health professional might suggest working with a paediatric physio or chiropractor who can help improve your baby’s movement patterns and head positioning.

In rare and more severe cases, helmet therapy may be recommended but this is usually a last resort after other options haven’t worked.

Looking after a baby is important, but don’t forget yourself in all this. Many new parents end up with their own postural pain from lifting, feeding, and carrying bub around Brisbane all day. 

You might also want to check this out: Sciatica Treatment Brisbane

Where Does Chiropractic Fit In?

At Tan Chiro, we often work with families who want a gentle, natural approach to supporting their baby’s development. And just to clear things up, chiropractic for babies is nothing like what you might have seen on YouTube or TikTok.

There’s no cracking, no forceful moves. It’s all incredibly gentle, often using light fingertip pressure to assess and support how bub’s body is moving, especially around the neck, spine, and shoulders.

If your baby has a strong head-turning preference, or if their movement seems a bit restricted, we’ll take a close look at what’s going on. Often it’s just a matter of helping loosen tight muscles or encouraging more balanced movement.

More freedom in the neck usually means bub is more likely to reposition themselves during sleep or play, which helps reduce pressure on any one area of the head. And in fact, many parents tell us their babies sleep better and seem calmer after sessions.

We work closely with your GP or maternal health nurse, and we always take your baby’s unique needs into account. No cookie-cutter advice here.

Still Unsure? That’s Okay

Here’s something we tell every parent who walks through our doors: it’s completely okay to ask questions. Even if you’re not 100% sure something’s wrong. Even if everyone else is telling you, “They’ll grow out of it.”

You know your baby best. And if something feels off (even just slightly) trust your instinct as a parent.

At Tan Chiro, we’re here to help you feel confident in your parenting choices without judgment or pressure. Whether it’s your first baby or your fourth, every child is different – and every situation is worth a closer look.

We’re not here to scare you or rush you into treatment. We’re here to help you understand what’s going on and give you the tools to make the best call for your family.

See also: Flat Head Treatment Brisbane

The Bottom Line

Flat head syndrome is surprisingly common and, in most cases, manageable. A few changes in routine, some support from the right people, and a little time can go a long way.

If you’re in Brisbane and wondering whether your baby’s flat spot is something to keep an eye on, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Come in, ask your questions, and let us help you feel more at ease. Whether it’s a quick check or a full treatment plan, we’re here to support both you and your little one.

Because every baby’s head is different  but every parent deserves peace of mind.