Head Shape

Mild flat spots are common in infancy, especially as babies spend a lot of time on their backs in the early months. However, if you notice an asymmetrical head shape, a flat area that isn’t improving, or if your baby consistently turns their head to one side, it’s important to have it assessed early.

The best window for making changes through conservative measures—such as positioning strategies, physiotherapy, or allied health care—is between birth and 4 months of age, while the skull is still very moldable and growing rapidly.

If a helmet is being considered as part of treatment, the ideal time to start is between 4–6 months of age, when head growth is at its peak. After 7 months, growth begins to slow significantly, and while improvement is still possible, it often takes longer and may be more limited.

We feel strongly that decisions about head shape and orthotic referral should not be made based solely on visual observation. Head shape should be assessed using precise measurements, such as with calipers or 3D scans, to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

At our clinic, we follow the Plagiocephaly Severity Scale, which is one of the accepted clinical tools used to guide recommendations. If you're concerned about your baby’s head shape, we’re here to provide a thorough assessment and walk you through your options.