The Facts About Plagiocephaly and Torticollis

In honor of National Plagiocephaly & Torticollis Awareness Day on March 20th, we are revisiting what these conditions are and options to prevent and treat them.

Understanding Torticollis and Plagiocephaly

Torticollis is the third most common congenital musculoskeletal condition in newborns.¹ It occurs when the muscles in a baby’s neck become stiff or tight, causing the baby’s head to tilt to one side and limiting range of motion. Often, the presence of neck and facial asymmetry is visible at birth or the first week after birth. Torticollis may result from placement in utero or during the birth process, or it may also appear when a baby’s head stays in one position for long periods of time.

Plagiocephaly, also known as “flat head syndrome”, is when a baby develops a flattening on the back or side of the head. While no child (or adult) has a perfectly symmetrical head, there are ranges of normal development. The majority of cranial asymmetries will correct on their own during the first weeks of life. However, a head shape that is not getting better, or may be getting worse, should be evaluated. Similar to torticollis, this condition may appear when a baby’s head stays in one position for long periods of time.

Your Cranial Helmet Questions Answered

We’ve compiled 10 of the most common questions and concerns parents share—along with answers to help you feel more confident as you begin the cranial helmet journey.

Learn More

Tips to Help Prevent or Lessen Symptoms of Torticollis and Plagiocephaly

• Change your baby’s sleeping position. Position your baby on their back and consider placing your baby’s head to sleep in one direction on even days and the opposite direction on odd days.
• Provide your baby with plenty of tummy time when awake. This helps build an infant’s neck, shoulder, and core muscles. Review our tummy time guide for more tips.
• Move your baby’s mobile to different ends of the crib to encourage looking in different directions.
• Lessen the time your baby spends in swings and carriers, and avoid leaving your baby in one position for long periods of time.

Treating Torticollis and Plagiocephaly

Torticollis is treated by a physical therapist and is best treated as early as possible to resolve the muscular imbalance. Your physical therapist will set up a treatment plan for you and will also monitor for signs of plagiocephaly. Depending on severity, plagiocephaly is treated with tummy time and repositioning, or a cranial remolding orthosis.

Babies who are prescribed a cranial remolding orthosis, also known as a cranial helmet or cranial band, are often required to wear the device for 3-6 months, depending on the severity at the beginning of treatment and baby’s age. It works by gently preventing excessive growth in the direction that is most prominent, while leaving open spaces for the flattened areas of the baby’s head to grow, forming a rounder, more even/symmetric shape.

Why Harris Wears a Helmet

Abby and Tyler discovered a flat spot on their infant son Harris’s head. With guidance from their care team, the family began treatment at Hanger Clinic. After trying repositioning techniques, they chose a lightweight Sprout3D™ cranial helmet, which quickly improved Harris’s asymmetry while fitting easily into daily routines.

Read Harris’s Story

Treating Your Baby at Hanger Clinic

Specialists in Hanger Clinic’s network of Cranial Asymmetry Remolding Experts, known as the CARE Network, are leading orthotists who have experience treating a full spectrum of musculoskeletal conditions. They will apply their deep, holistic understanding of pediatric anatomy and take into account natural developmental milestones when treating your baby.

With over 200 clinicians at more than 260 locations nationwide, we ensure patients and families receive access to unparalleled expertise. We embrace transparent, evidence-based care utilizing clinically-appropriate technology designed to fit each baby’s unique needs and help them achieve the best possible outcomes.

1. Physio-Pedia, Congenital Torticollis
2. Physio-Pedia, Plagiocephaly