Head Shape and Turning Preference
Babies’ heads come in all different shapes and sizes. When a baby is born it is normal for their head be a slightly unusual shape- this is due to the baby having flexible bones in their head in order to fit through the birth canal. This is normal and self-corrects within the first few weeks of life.
Sometimes a baby can develop a flat spot on the back or the side of their head, this can be due to a head turning preference or from too much time spent lying on their back.
What is Plagiocephaly?
Plagiocephaly, also known as flat head syndrome, happens when a baby’s head develops a flat spot due to prolonged pressure on one area. It often occurs in conjunction with head turning preference.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Sleeping Position: Spending a lot of time lying on the back with the head turned to one side.
- Limited Tummy Time: Not enough time spent on the tummy while awake.
- Muscle Tightness: Conditions like torticollis, where neck muscles are tight, causing the head to tilt to one side.
What is Head Turning Preference?
A head turning preference occurs when a baby consistently turns their head to one side while lying down or sleeping. This can be due to natural comfort, muscle tightness, or other factors.
Signs to Look For
- Baby consistently turns head to one side.
- Baby has difficulty turning head to the opposite side.
- Flattening of the head on one side.
Prevention and Management
- Tummy time: Encourage tummy time while the baby is awake and supervised. Start with short periods and gradually increase.
- Alternate head position: When putting your baby to sleep, gently turn their head to the less preferred side. Always place your baby on their back to sleep.
- Hold and carry: Alternate the side on which you hold and carry your baby to promote even muscle development.
- Rearrange nursery furniture: Babies are attracted to look at light sources and towards their parents and may turn their head to this direction.
- Helmets: The benefit of specialist helmets remains controversial and is not supported or recommended by the Association of Paediatric Chartered Physiotherapy.
When to Seek Professional Help
- If you notice a persistent head turning preference or flat spots on your baby’s head.
- If your baby has difficulty turning their head in both directions.
- If you suspect muscle tightness or any discomfort in your baby’s neck.
Speak with your health visitor or GP who can refer you to see a paediatric physiotherapist.
More information on head turning preference and head shape can be found in this leaflet created by The Association of Paediatric Chartered Physiotherapists.
Last updated20 Jan 2025