Plagiocephaly & Torticollis: Understanding the Neurological Connection
Parents are often told that conditions like plagiocephaly (flat head syndrome) and torticollis (tight neck muscles) are purely physical issues, easily corrected with repositioning or physical therapy. But what if these conditions are actually signs of deeper neurological stress?
At Purpose Driven Chiropractic, we take a neurological approach to understand why these issues occur and how to address the root cause.
What Is Plagiocephaly?
Plagiocephaly refers to the flattening of one side of a baby’s head, often noticeable in the first few months of life. It’s commonly linked to:
Prolonged time in one position (e.g., car seats, swings, cribs)
Torticollis, which limits neck movement and causes the baby to favor one side
But flat spots don’t happen in isolation. They often signal underlying issues with the nervous system's ability to regulate posture and movement.
What Is Torticollis?
Torticollis is the tightening of neck muscles, causing a baby to tilt their head to one side and have difficulty turning it the other way. It can result from:
Birth trauma (C-section, forceps, vacuum delivery)
Intrauterine constraint (limited space in the womb)
Neurological imbalances affecting muscle tone and control
Torticollis isn’t just a muscle issue—it’s often a sign of neurological interference, especially in the upper cervical spine and brainstem.
The Neurological Consequences of Plagiocephaly & Torticollis
The nervous system controls muscle tone, posture, and head shape, and when there’s stress on the nervous system (due to birth trauma, in-utero stress, or early life factors), it can lead to:
Muscle imbalances (tight on one side, weak on the other)
Poor head control and asymmetry
Difficulty with motor development
However, the effects of plagiocephaly and torticollis go beyond just muscle tension—they can directly impact brain development:
Restricted Movement Impacts Brain Stimulation – A baby’s ability to turn their head freely is crucial for proper vestibular and proprioceptive input, which are essential for brain development and sensory processing.
Delayed Motor Milestones – When head asymmetry affects neck control, it can delay important movements like rolling over, crawling, and walking, which play a key role in neurological maturation.
Visual & Auditory Processing Issues – Babies with plagiocephaly and torticollis often develop asymmetrical visual tracking and auditory input processing, which can affect reading, focus, and learning later in life.
Cranial Nerve Dysfunction – The brainstem, where critical cranial nerves originate, can be affected by head and neck asymmetry, leading to issues with swallowing, speech, balance, and autonomic nervous system function.
Increased Risk of Sensory Processing Challenges – If left unaddressed, these early imbalances can contribute to sensory hypersensitivity or delays, making it harder for the child to adapt to their environment.
Traditional Treatments vs. The Neurological Approach
Traditional Approaches:
Repositioning therapy
Physical therapy/stretching
Helmet therapy (for severe cases)
While these methods can help, they often focus on the symptoms rather than the underlying neurological cause.
Our Neurological Approach:
Comprehensive Nervous System Evaluation: Identifying areas of stress or interference.
Gentle Chiropractic Adjustments: Supporting optimal communication between the brain and body.
Developmental Support: Guidance on tummy time, motor milestones, and positioning strategies to promote natural symmetry.
When to Seek Help
If your baby shows signs of:
Persistent head tilt or preference for one side
Flat spots on the head
Limited neck movement
Delays in motor milestones
These are signs of potential neurological stress that deserve attention.
📅 Schedule a consultation today to learn how we can support your baby's healthy development.
