Plagiocephaly & Torticollis Chiropractic Care in Beverly, MA
Torticollis (tight neck muscles causing a head tilt) and plagiocephaly (flathead syndrome) go hand in hand. When an infant has tight neck joints or cranial restrictions, they prefer looking in only one direction. Over time, the constant pressure on soft infant skull bones leads to flattening. Premature babies who have spent time in the NICU are especially prone to this due to the softness of their skulls and extensive time laying on their backs. Foundations Family Chiropractic provides soft, non-invasive cranial and spinal care to restore full neck rotation and encourage natural head shape balance.
Common Symptoms
- Baby always turns or tilts their head to one preferred side
- A noticeable flat spot on the back or side of the skull
- Uneven alignment of the ears, forehead, or facial features
- Difficulty nursing on one side compared to the other
- Frustration during tummy time because lifting the head is uncomfortable
- Hair loss on one specific side on the back of the head
How Chiropractic & Cranial Care Helps
By addressing the underlying structural restrictions in the upper neck and cranial sutures, we restore full, painless range of motion to your baby's head. When a baby can easily turn their head in both directions and enjoy tummy time, pressure is relieved from the flat spot, allowing natural, symmetrical skull growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can chiropractic care help my baby avoid needing a cranial helmet?
A: When addressed early, gentle chiropractic and cranial care combined with positioning strategies often resolve neck tightness and support skull roundness, potentially avoiding the need for a helmet.
Q: How young can a baby start care for flathead syndrome or torticollis?
A: Infants can be safely evaluated as early as their first week of life. The earlier care begins, the softer the cranial bones are, making structural correction easier and faster.
