Understanding Plagiocephaly: Strive OP Educational Series
July 17, 2026
Welcome to the Strive OP Educational Series — a growing collection of videos designed to help parents understand their child’s care in clear, everyday language. In this installment, we’re tackling one of the most common questions we hear from families: “Why is my baby’s head flat, and what can I do about it?”
That flattening has a name: plagiocephaly.
Watch the full video:
Plagiocephaly — often called “flat head syndrome” — is a flattening of one area of a baby’s head. Because an infant’s skull is soft and still growing, consistent pressure on one spot can gradually change its shape. It’s extremely common, and in most cases it’s a cosmetic concern rather than one that affects brain development.
Why does it happen?
There are a few common contributors:
- Back-sleeping. Placing babies on their backs to sleep is the single most important thing you can do to reduce the risk of SIDS — and we always recommend it. A side effect, though, is more consistent pressure on the back of the head.
- Time on the back while awake. Long stretches in car seats, swings, and bouncers add up.
- Torticollis. A tight neck muscle can cause a baby to favor turning their head one way, concentrating pressure on one side. Plagiocephaly and torticollis often go hand in hand.
- Time in the womb or a multiples pregnancy, which can shape the head before birth.
What can parents do?
Early, simple steps make a real difference:
- Tummy time while your baby is awake and supervised
- Repositioning — alternating your baby’s head direction and switching feeding sides
- Limiting time in car seats and bouncers when your baby isn’t traveling
- Encouraging your baby to look the other way with toys, sound, and interaction
When should you seek an evaluation?
If the flattening seems to be getting more noticeable, isn’t improving with repositioning, or you notice a head tilt or limited neck movement, it’s worth having it assessed. Timing matters: because a baby’s skull grows fastest in the first months of life, early intervention gives the best results.
For cases that need more than repositioning, a custom cranial helmet (cranial orthosis) can gently guide head growth back toward a rounder shape. At Strive OP, we use the Talee® cranial helmet system and create a plan tailored to your child.
Have questions? We’re here to help.
Every baby is different, and nothing replaces a personalized evaluation. If you’re concerned about your child’s head shape, reach out — walk-ins are always welcome.
📞 586-803-4325
📍 50714 Van Dyke Ave., Shelby Township, MI 48317
🕘 Mon–Thu 9am–4pm • Fri 9am–12pm
And don’t miss the rest of the series. Subscribe to our channel so you never miss a new educational video: youtube.com/@StriveOP
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