Plagiocephaly and the role of osteopathy

Asymmetry in a baby’s head, known as plagiocephaly, is more common than you might think. Our clinic has worked with many families navigating plagiocephaly.

Let’s explore the condition, and how osteopathy can play an important role in its treatment.

What is plagiocephaly?

Plagiocephaly refers to a flattening or asymmetry of a baby’s head. It often occurs in the first few months of life, when an infant’s skull is still soft and malleable. This condition is frequently linked to prolonged pressure on one side of the head.

Factors that can contribute to plagiocephaly include:

• Pregnancy and birth trauma including pressure in the birth canal and the use of instruments.
• Sleeping babies on their back which is important for preventing sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), but can also contribute to flattening.
• Tight neck muscles make it more likely babies will favour one side of their head.
• Other factors identified include low vitamin D, male sex, first or multiple births, and prematurity.

How common is plagiocephaly in New Zealand?

Positional plagiocephaly affects around 16% of infants at 6 weeks, increasing to almost 20% at 4 months, before declining to 3.3% by age 2 (Jenny et al., 2014). While many cases resolve as babies grow, some require intervention to prevent long-term effects.

Why consider osteopathy for plagiocephaly?

Osteopathy is a holistic, non-invasive therapy that focuses on improving structural imbalances in the body. For infants with plagiocephaly, osteopathic treatment may include gentle techniques designed to:

• Restore cranial balance: Using light-touch manipulations to improve symmetry and relieve tension in the skull. This includes muscles, meningeal tensions or joint restrictions.
• Address related conditions: Treating associated issues such as torticollis or restricted neck movement.
• Support overall development: Enhancing movement and mobility in the ribs, pelvis and diaphragm to encourage normal growth patterns.

Research has shown that osteopathic treatment can significantly reduce cranial asymmetry in infants, with results visible within three months of starting treatment (Gasperini et al., 2021; Bagagiolo et al., 2022). Early intervention—ideally before six months of age—can lead to the best outcomes.

Our clinic takes pride in offering individualised care to each baby. Whether it’s monitoring cranial changes, providing hands-on treatment, or offering advice on positioning and tummy time, we aim to give your baby the best possible start.

Tips for parents

While professional care is vital, there are also simple steps you can take at home to prevent or manage plagiocephaly:

• Encourage tummy time: Aim for supervised tummy time several times a day to strengthen neck and shoulder muscles.
• Vary head positioning: Alternate the direction your baby faces during sleep or play. This may only be possible after treating the imbalances in babies neck joints, muscles or other soft tissues.
• Limit time in carriers: Reduce prolonged use of car seats or prams that place pressure on the back of the head.

How we can help

At our clinic, we specialise in osteopathic care for infants, offering gentle, effective treatments to address plagiocephaly and support your baby’s development. Every baby is unique, and our tailored approach ensures that your little one receives the care they need.

If you’re concerned about your baby’s head shape or development, don’t hesitate to reach out. Let’s work together to give your baby a balanced, healthy start in life.

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