FLAT HEAD (PLAGIOCEPHALY) & UNEVEN CRANIAL SHAPE IN BOULDER, CO

Gentle, Effective Chiropractic Care for Boulder Babies

Noticing a flat spot or uneven shape on your baby’s head can be alarming, especially in those early months when everything feels so new and fragile. Many Boulder moms reach out to us feeling worried, wondering if they should be doing something differently or if their baby’s head shape will “fix itself.”

If you’ve found yourself staring at your baby’s head from different angles, comparing photos, or stressing during tummy time — you’re not alone. Plagiocephaly (flat head syndrome) is incredibly common, and with the right support, the cranial shape can often improve beautifully.

At Evol.v Chiropractic, we use gentle newborn chiropractic and cranial techniques to help restore symmetry, reduce tension patterns, and support healthy head shape development — all in a calm, nurturing environment for both babies and moms.

What Is Plagiocephaly?

Plagiocephaly occurs when a baby develops a flat or uneven area on the back or side of their head. Because newborn skull bones are soft and moldable, external pressure or internal tension patterns can influence their shape.

Common presentations include:

A flat spot on one side of the head
A flat area across the back of the head
One ear appearing slightly forward
Forehead or cheek fullness on one side
Head preferring to rotate only one direction
Difficulty with tummy time or feeding on one breast

Most cases are related to tight muscles, restricted neck movement, or imbalances in cranial tension.

What Causes Flat Head Syndrome?

Plagiocephaly often develops when a baby consistently rests or sleeps with their head turned to one side — usually because turning the other way feels uncomfortable.

Common contributing factors include:

Torticollis (tight neck muscles or head preference)
In-utero positioning (tight space, breech, or low head engagement)
Birth strain to the neck, jaw, or cranial bones
C-section deliveries, where molding from the birth canal doesn’t occur
Extended time in car seats, swings, or carriers
Feeding difficulties that cause baby to favor one side

Chiropractic care addresses the root of these patterns — the underlying tension making your baby turn, tilt, or rest in one direction more than the other.

How Chiropractic Helps With Plagiocephaly

At Evol.v Chiropractic, we use extremely gentle techniques to improve mobility, comfort, and symmetry in your baby’s body. Unlike helmets, which correct shape from the outside, chiropractic supports the body’s ability to self-correct from the inside by restoring natural movement patterns.

Chiropractic care helps by:

Releasing neck and upper spine tension so baby can turn both ways
Balancing cranial motion using very soft cranial techniques
Reducing the muscle tightness that pulls baby into one position
Improving breastfeeding mechanics, which encourages more symmetrical movement
Enhancing nervous system regulation, helping baby feel safe and relaxed
Supporting natural reshaping during sleep and tummy time

When babies can move comfortably and freely, pressure is no longer placed repeatedly on the same area of the head — allowing the skull to round out more consistently.

What This Care Looks Like (And Why Babies Love It)

Our newborn chiropractic care is soft, precise, and calming. Adjustments involve light fingertip pressure — similar to how you’d check a peach for ripeness.

Most babies:

Melt into the table
Yawn, stretch, or relax their hands
Fall asleep during the adjustment
Nurse more comfortably afterward
Show improved head turning within a few sessions

This is gentle work designed to support your baby, not overwhelm them.

Do Flat Spots Always Need a Helmet?

Not always. Many cases of mild to moderate plagiocephaly improve significantly with:

Chiropractic adjustments
Gentle cranial balancing
Addressing torticollis
Feeding pattern support
Increased tummy time
Positioning strategies at home

For more severe cases, chiropractic care can also enhance the effectiveness of helmet therapy when it is recommended, helping the skull respond better and more quickly.

We collaborate with pediatricians, physical therapists, and cranial specialists throughout Boulder to ensure every family has the full level of support they need.

What to Expect at Your Baby’s Visit

During your appointment, we will:

Review your baby’s head shape, feeding patterns, and movement history
Assess neck mobility and look for underlying torticollis
Evaluate cranial tension and symmetry
Provide gentle chiropractic and cranial adjustments
Offer simple positioning and tummy time tips tailored to your baby
Create a realistic care plan to support healthy head shape

Parents often notice improved range of motion and more even resting positions right away.

Trusted Newborn Chiropractic Care in Boulder, Colorado

Families throughout Boulder, North Boulder, Gunbarrel, Niwot, Longmont, Louisville, Lafayette, Superior, Lyons and all of Boulder County trust Evol.v Chiropractic for newborn cranial and spinal care. Our goal is simple: help your baby feel comfortable, move freely, and grow with ease — while supporting you every step of the way.

Your Baby’s Head Shape Can Improve — Let’s Support It Together

If you’re worried about a flat spot or uneven head shape, we’re here with gentle, effective solutions that support your baby’s natural development. Let’s help your baby grow in balance, comfort, and symmetry.

Book your newborn chiropractic appointment today at Evol.v Chiropractic in Boulder, Colorado.

Schedule Your Appointment Today