What Causes a Flat Head
A baby’s head is remarkably soft and malleable in the early stages of life. This flexibility allows the skull to pass through the birth canal during delivery and provides room for rapid brain growth during infancy. However, this same flexibility can also lead to a condition commonly referred to as "flat head," or more medically, positional plagiocephaly . This article will explore what causes a flat head, the different types of flat head syndrome, risk factors, and how parents and caregivers can help prevent or treat this condition. What is Flat Head Syndrome? Flat head syndrome is a term used to describe an abnormal flattening on one side or the back of an infant’s skull. The three most common types include: Plagiocephaly – Flattening on one side of the head, often accompanied by misalignment of facial features. Brachycephaly – Flattening at the back of the head, causing the head to appear wider than usual. Scaphocephaly – A less common form, where the head appears long ...