My baby has a flat spot: A Guide to Understanding and Managing Plagiocephaly and Torticollis in Infants

Welcome to Wandering Health, where we prioritize the well-being of your little ones. We understand that every aspect of your child's development is of utmost importance, and that includes their physical health. In this blog post, we'll delve into the common challenges of torticollis and plagiocephaly in infants, shedding light on conservative management strategies and techniques to improve your baby's comfort and development.

Understanding Torticollis and Plagiocephaly:

Torticollis, often referred to as "wry neck," is a condition characterised by the tightening of muscles in the neck, leading to a limited range of motion. It is present in up to 20% of infants. Plagiocephaly, on the other hand, is the flattening of one side of the head, often due to prolonged pressure in a particular position. These conditions can be linked, with torticollis contributing to the development of plagiocephaly.

Different areas of “flattening”
Image credit: My Strong Little Body

Causes:

Torticollis in infants can be congenital or acquired. Congenital torticollis is often present at birth due to the baby's position in the womb, whereas acquired torticollis may result from muscle spasms or injuries. Plagiocephaly, on the other hand, can be caused by spending too much time in one position, such as sleeping on the back, which is recommended to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

 Conservative Management Techniques:

(C) Dmitry Naumov. Stock adobe

1. Gentle Stretching Exercises:

   Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the conservative management of torticollis. Our expert physiotherapists at Wandering Health can guide you through gentle stretching exercises that aim to improve your baby's neck mobility.

2. Tummy Time:

  Encouraging tummy time is essential to reduce the risk of plagiocephaly. Place your baby on their tummy for short periods throughout the day to strengthen neck and shoulder muscles, promoting a well-rounded head shape.

3. Alternate Sleeping Positions:

   While back sleeping is recommended for infants, alternate your baby's head position during sleep to prevent constant pressure on one side of the head. Consult with our physiotherapists for advice on creating a safe sleeping environment.

4. Use of Positioning Aids:

   Specialized positioning aids can help maintain proper alignment during sleep and awake times. Our experts at Wandering Health can recommend suitable aids tailored to your baby's needs.

5. Parental Education:

   Equipping parents with the knowledge to recognize early signs of torticollis and plagiocephaly is crucial. Regular check-ups with our physiotherapists allow us to monitor your baby's development and make necessary adjustments to the management plan.

At Wandering Health, we understand the concerns and challenges that come with caring for a newborn. Torticollis and plagiocephaly are common conditions that, with early intervention and conservative management, can be effectively addressed. Our dedicated team of physiotherapists is here to support you and your little one on the journey towards optimal health and development. Together, let's nurture those tiny necks and ensure your baby's well-being for a bright and healthy future.