Plagiocephaly & Gentle Chiropractic Care
Plagiocephaly & Gentle Chiropractic Care in Ormond Beach
Have you noticed a flat spot on your baby’s head or that they prefer looking one direction? Plagiocephaly is common in infants, and early evaluation can help support healthy growth and development. At New Journey Chiropractic, we provide gentle, neurologically-focused care to help babies move comfortably and thrive.
What Is Plagiocephaly?
Plagiocephaly, often called flat head syndrome, is a condition in which an infant develops flattening on one side or the back of the head. Because a baby’s skull is soft and rapidly growing during the first year of life, repeated pressure on one area can lead to changes in head shape.
There are two main types of plagiocephaly:
- Positional plagiocephaly: Flattening caused by external pressure or a preference for one head position.
- Craniosynostosis: A less common condition in which one or more skull sutures fuse too early, affecting skull growth and requiring medical evaluation.
Most cases of plagiocephaly are positional, but it is important to determine the underlying cause so families receive the appropriate care.
Common Signs & Symptoms
- Flattening on one side or the back of the head
- Preference for looking one direction
- Head tilt
- Facial asymmetry
- One ear positioned farther forward than the other
- Forehead prominence on one side
- Difficulty turning the head equally both ways
- Trouble with tummy time
- Preference for nursing on one side
- Associated torticollis
- Delayed motor milestones in some infants
Possible Causes
Plagiocephaly can develop from a variety of factors, including:
- Preference for lying with the head turned one direction
- Torticollis
- Positioning in the womb
- Multiple births (twins or triplets)
- Premature birth
- Limited tummy time
- Prolonged time in car seats, swings, or infant seats
- Birth interventions
- Birth-related muscular tension
Red Flags
While positional plagiocephaly is common, certain findings should be evaluated promptly by a pediatrician or specialist.
Parents should seek medical evaluation if their baby has:
- A rigid ridge along the skull
- Head shape changes that worsen rapidly
- Abnormal or absent fontanelles (soft spots)
- Developmental regression
- Seizures
- Persistent vomiting
- Abnormal eye movements
- Increased irritability or lethargy
- Concerns for craniosynostosis
- A rapidly increasing head circumference
How New Journey Chiropractic Approaches Care
At New Journey Chiropractic, we understand that head shape concerns can feel overwhelming for parents.
Dr. Jayme performs a thorough evaluation to assess your baby’s nervous system, movement patterns, posture, and head and neck mobility. We look for factors that may contribute to head preference or asymmetrical movement.
Your baby’s assessment may include:
- Pregnancy and birth history
- Nervous system evaluation
- Head and neck range of motion
- Cranial and facial symmetry assessment
- Postural evaluation
- Muscle tone and reflexes
- Developmental milestone review
- Feeding and sleep history
Infant chiropractic care is extremely gentle and designed specifically for babies. There is no twisting, cracking, or forceful manipulation.
Our goal is to help reduce areas of tension, support balanced movement, encourage healthy development, and help babies move more comfortably as they grow.
Collaboration With Other Healthcare Providers
We believe families receive the best care when providers work together.
Depending on your baby’s needs, Dr. Jayme may collaborate with:
- Pediatricians
- Pediatric physical therapists
- Occupational therapists
- Craniofacial specialists
- Pediatric neurosurgeons
- Orthotists specializing in cranial helmets
- Lactation consultants
If there are concerns for craniosynostosis or other medical conditions, we will help guide you toward the appropriate specialist.
Is plagiocephaly common?
Yes. Positional plagiocephaly is very common, especially since babies are placed on their backs to sleep to reduce the risk of SIDS.
Will my baby's head round out on its own?
Many babies improve as they grow and become more mobile. Early identification and addressing contributing factors such as torticollis or head preference may help optimize outcomes.
Does plagiocephaly affect brain development?
Positional plagiocephaly does not typically affect brain growth or intelligence. However, developmental milestones should continue to be monitored by your healthcare providers.
Is chiropractic care safe for babies with plagiocephaly?
Yes. Infant chiropractic care uses gentle, age-appropriate techniques designed specifically for babies. There is no twisting, cracking, or forceful movement.
Will my baby need a helmet?
Some babies benefit from cranial orthotic helmets, while others do not. The decision depends on factors such as age, severity of head shape changes, and response to conservative care. We work alongside your pediatrician and specialists to help guide these decisions.
If you have noticed a flat spot on your baby’s head or your baby prefers looking one direction, early evaluation can help provide answers and support healthy development.
At New Journey Chiropractic, we provide gentle, neurologically-focused care designed specifically for infants and their growing families.
Related Conditions
Meet Dr. Jayme
Dr. Jayme Frear is a Registered Nurse and Doctor of Chiropractic who is currently pursuing her Master’s Degree in Pediatrics.
Her backgrounds in nursing and chiropractic allow her to take a comprehensive, family-centered approach to infant care. She understands how important early development is and is passionate about helping families feel supported and informed throughout their child’s healthcare journey.
Dr. Jayme believes parents deserve answers, gentle care, and a provider who listens.