Pediatric Physical Therapy for Plagiocephaly
in Charlotte & Huntersville, NC
A baby’s skull is soft and flexible, allowing it to adapt as the brain grows. Because infants spend many hours each day sleeping on their backs, they may develop flat spots, known as plagiocephaly, on the back or side of the head during the first few months of life.
Most cases are mild and often resolve on their own. However, some babies need extra help improving head shape and movement. At Little Wonders Pediatric Therapy, our physical therapists are experienced in supporting your baby’s growth and development with exercises and positioning strategies that help shape the head naturally while improving movement, strength, and comfort.
What Is Plagiocephaly in Infants?
Plagiocephaly, also called “flat head syndrome,” occurs when repeated pressure is placed on one area of a baby’s skull, usually from resting in the same position for long periods.
Other causes include:
- Having tight neck muscles (torticollis) that limit head movement
- Sharing the womb with another sibling, which can restrict space
- Being delivered with forceps or vacuum assistance
- Being born prematurely, making the skull softer and more sensitive to pressure
- Having limited tummy time, which can delay neck and shoulder strength
- Being a firstborn baby, which often means less space in the womb
- Being male, which sometimes means a slightly larger, heavier head
Signs of Plagiocephaly in Infants
Plagiocephaly does not affect brain development or your baby’s overall health, but it can change the shape or symmetry of your baby’s head and face. It can also result in difficulties with jaw alignment and bite later in life. Signs include:
- Head flattened, misshaped or slanted on the front, side or back
- Hair missing in one spot
- Forehead, eye, or cheek appearing larger or fuller on one side than on the other
- Nose that appears pushed to one side
- Ears appear uneven, with one positioned higher or more forward than the other
How Physical Therapy Helps with Plagiocephaly
Physical therapy uses gentle, play-based techniques to encourage even muscle development, improve head control, and promote natural head rounding. Your child’s personalized program may include:
- Stretching and strengthening exercises to improve neck mobility and reduce tightness
- Positioning strategies to relieve pressure on the flat area and encourage active movement
- Building core, neck, and shoulder strength with tummy time activities
- Using play activities that help your baby develop balanced strength and posture
Why Choose Little Wonders Pediatric Therapy
Since 2018, Little Wonders Pediatric Therapy has provided exceptional care to children of all ages in the Charlotte and Huntersville, NC, areas. Our compassionate physical therapists create individualized treatment plans that meet each child’s unique needs and enable caregivers to support progress at home. We make therapy both fun and effective, helping your child build confidence, explore their world, and reach new developmental milestones.
Reach Out to Little Wonders Pediatric Therapy
If you are concerned that your baby has plagiocephaly, call Little Wonders Pediatric Therapy at (704) 752-1616, email us at info@littlewonderstherapy.com, or fill out our online form to schedule an evaluation. We look forward to helping your baby grow stronger and supporting their healthy development.