Ensuring the best outcome for your child’s development.
Understanding Plagiocephaly and Torticollis
At Mary Free Bed Kids, we provide specialized care for infants with deformational plagiocephaly (flattening or misshaping of the head) and torticollis (tightness or weakness of neck muscles.) These conditions often appear together. If left untreated, these conditions can affect your child’s head shape, posture and early motor development.
Our multidisciplinary pediatric experts offer evaluation and treatment plans designed to support your baby’s healthy growth, movement, and comfort—helping them reach developmental milestones with confidence.
What is Deformational Plagiocephaly?
Deformational plagiocephaly occurs when external pressure causes an infant’s skull to develop into an asymmetrical shape. This can happen before birth or within the first few months of life. Parents and caregivers are often the first to notice differences in head shape—such as flattening on one side or facial asymmetry.
Common signs include:
- Flattening on one side or the back of the head
- Ear misalignment (one ear appearing lower or more forward)
- Asymmetry in the eyes, nose, or jaw
- A more prominent forehead on one side
- Uneven skull shape
Our team uses advanced assessments to measure head symmetry and determine whether repositioning or a cranial remolding orthosis (helmet therapy) is recommended. Cranial remolding orthoses are provided through Mary Free Bed Orthotics, Prosthetics + Bionics, ensuring seamless, expert coordination of care.
Types of Skull Shape Conditions We Treat
- Deformational Brachycephaly: Flattening across the back of the head, resulting in a wider-than-normal head shape.
- Deformational Asymmetrical Brachycephaly: A combination of flattening and widening of the head.
- Deformational Scaphocephaly: A long, narrow head shape caused by consistent side positioning.
Our specialists evaluate each case carefully to determine which type is present and create a treatment plan tailored to your child’s individual needs.
What is Torticollis?
Torticollis is caused by tightness or shortening of the sternocleidomastoid muscle, which runs from behind the ear to the front of the neck. This condition can make it difficult for your baby to turn their head or tilt it evenly. Common causes include:
- Sleep position or preference for one side
- Restricted movement in the womb
- Congenital muscular torticollis (present at birth)
- Birth trauma
- Orthopedic or muscular conditions
If left untreated, torticollis can lead to delays in gross motor skills, facial asymmetry and posture issues. Early therapy can make a tremendous difference in your child’s development.
Why Early Treatment Matters
Addressing plagiocephaly and torticollis early helps prevent long-term effects such as:
- Delayed motor development
- Visual tracking problems
- Jaw or ear asymmetry
- Postural imbalances
Treatment often begins with repositioning strategies, tummy time and guided stretching to strengthen neck and core muscles. These approaches encourage symmetry, promote movement and support proper head shape development.
Comprehensive Pediatric Services
Our comprehensive range of services includes:
- Physician Evaluation: A pediatric physiatrist (a physician specializing in physical medicine and rehabilitation) will review your child’s medical history, evaluate physical findings and discuss treatment options.
- Physical Therapy: Our pediatric physical therapists focus on improving head movement, neck range of motion and overall motor skills. Therapy includes stretching tight neck muscles, strengthening weaker muscles, promoting symmetrical movement and encouraging tummy time.
- Occupational Therapy: Our occupational therapists assess fine motor control, visual development and positioning. They also help improve shoulder and trunk stability to support daily movement and play.
- Coordination with Orthotics: For infants with moderate to severe plagiocephaly, our orthotists from Mary Free Bed Orthotics, Prosthetics + Bionics may recommend a cranial remolding helmet to guide skull growth. When needed, we may also provide neck collars to support retraining and alignment.
- Family and Caregiver Education: Parents and caregivers are vital members of the care team. You’ll receive hands-on education in repositioning techniques, tummy-time routines, stretching and strengthening exercises. You’ll also learn about play-based activities to support motor development.
Locations and Team Collaboration
Our Plagiocephaly and Torticollis Program is available at Mary Free Bed Kids in Grand Rapids, Holland and Kalamazoo. Your child’s care is coordinated between expert therapists and orthotists, ensuring comprehensive support across every step of treatment.
Our Team Includes:
- Cranial remolding and orthotic fitting specialists
- Pediatric therapy specialists focused on symmetry, movement and developmental milestones
Why Choose Mary Free Bed Kids
- We provide expertise in pediatric cranial and neuromuscular development.
- Mary Free Bed therapists and orthotics specialists collaborate on-site in real-time.
- We utilize advanced technology and personalized care plans.
- We provide a nurturing, family-centered approach to care designed for babies and parents alike.
Mary Free Bed Kids provides the highest quality of care—ensuring your child grows strong, moves freely, and develops with confidence.
Begin Your Child’s Journey
At Mary Free Bed Kids, we’re here to help your child grow, move and thrive—every step of the way.