• Infant Head Shape (Plagiocephaly)

    ‘Plagiocephaly’ is a term for a misshapen head in infants. This occurs in approximately 20 per cent of infants at seven weeks of age. Plagiocephaly occurs because babies’ heads are very soft, and flat spots can happen when they spend long periods of time with their heads resting in the same position. This is usually managed with repositioning and plenty of supervised awake ‘tummy time’. While plagiocephaly does not affect babies’ development, it can alter the appearance of their face and head. It is important to seek the advice of your GP, maternal and child health nurse (M&CHN) or paediatric physiotherapist to rule out any other causes.