---
title: 4 Indications of a Brachycephalic Head Shape in Children
description: A brachycephalic head shape is one of the most common forms of flat head syndrome. Learn the 4 signs to check if your baby has a a brachycephalic skull.
image: https://www.technologyinmotion.com/hubfs/Common%20signs%20of%20brachycephalic%20skull.jpeg
---

X

#### This page will now redirect to our sister company's website 3dorthopro.com

[Okay](https://3dorthopro.com/)

No, thank you.

[![Technology in Motion Logo](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/hubfs/tech-in-motion.svg)](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/)

[![Technology in Motion Logo](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/hubfs/tech-in-motion-mob.svg)](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/)

[Book a pre-assessment](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/contact/book-an-assessment) ![Search Icon](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/hubfs/search.svg)

- Cranial remoulding helmets 
    - [TiMbandAir](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/cranial-remoulding-helmets/tim-band-air)
    - [Design your helmet](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/cranial-remoulding-helmets/helmet-design)
    - [Why TiMbandAir](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/cranial-remoulding-helmets/why-tim-band-air)
    - [Your treatment plan](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/cranial-remoulding-helmets/your-treatment-plan)
    - [3D progress viewer](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/cranial-remoulding-helmets/3d-viewer)
    - [Wearing & care guide](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/cranial-remoulding-helmets/wearing-and-care-guide)
- Protective helmets 
    - [TiMbandAir Protect](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/protective-helmets/tim-band-air-protect)
- [Head Shape Abnormalities](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/head-abnormalities) 
    - [Scaphocephaly](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/head-abnormalities/scaphocephaly)
    - [Plagiocephaly](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/head-abnormalities/plagiocephaly)
    - [Bracyhcephaly](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/head-abnormalities/brachycephaly)
    - [Dolichocephaly](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/head-abnormalities/dolichocephaly)
    - [Torticollis](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/head-abnormalities/torticollis)
- [Craniosynostosis](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/craniosynostosis) 
    - [Treatment Plan](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/craniosynostosis/craniosynostosis-treatment-plan)
- [Community & resources](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/community-and-resources) 
    - [Repositioning](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/community-and-resources/repositioning)
    - [Blogs](https://technologyinmotion.com/blog)
    - [Patient Stories](https://technologyinmotion.com/blog/tag/patient-stories)
    - [Research](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/community-and-resources/research-on-plagiocephaly)
    - [Glossary](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/community-and-resources/glossary)
    - [FAQs](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/community-and-resources/faqs)
- [About us and Pricing](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/about-us) 
    - [What we do](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/about-us/what-we-do)
    - [Pricing](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/about-us/pricing)
    - [3D Technology](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/about-us/3d-technology)
    - [3D Products](https://3dorthopro.com/)
    - [Meet your clinicians](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/about-us/our-team)
    - [Join the network](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/about-us/join-the-network)
    - [Our NHS partnerships](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/about-us/partnership-with-nhs-trusts)
    - [News](https://6887174.hs-sites.com/blog/tag/news-article)
- [Contact and Clinic Locations](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/contact) 
    - [Book an assessment](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/contact/book-an-assessment)
    - [Our clinics](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/contact/our-clinics)

- Cranial remoulding helmets 
    - [TiMbandAir](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/cranial-remoulding-helmets/tim-band-air)
    - [Design your helmet](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/cranial-remoulding-helmets/helmet-design)
    - [Why TiMbandAir](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/cranial-remoulding-helmets/why-tim-band-air)
    - [Your treatment plan](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/cranial-remoulding-helmets/your-treatment-plan)
    - [3D progress viewer](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/cranial-remoulding-helmets/3d-viewer)
    - [Wearing & care guide](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/cranial-remoulding-helmets/wearing-and-care-guide)
- Protective helmets 
    - [TiMbandAir Protect](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/protective-helmets/tim-band-air-protect)
- [Head Shape Abnormalities](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/head-abnormalities) 
    - [Scaphocephaly](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/head-abnormalities/scaphocephaly)
    - [Plagiocephaly](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/head-abnormalities/plagiocephaly)
    - [Bracyhcephaly](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/head-abnormalities/brachycephaly)
    - [Dolichocephaly](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/head-abnormalities/dolichocephaly)
    - [Torticollis](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/head-abnormalities/torticollis)
- [Craniosynostosis](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/craniosynostosis) 
    - [Treatment Plan](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/craniosynostosis/craniosynostosis-treatment-plan)
- [Community & resources](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/community-and-resources) 
    - [Repositioning](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/community-and-resources/repositioning)
    - [Blogs](https://technologyinmotion.com/blog)
    - [Patient Stories](https://technologyinmotion.com/blog/tag/patient-stories)
    - [Research](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/community-and-resources/research-on-plagiocephaly)
    - [Glossary](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/community-and-resources/glossary)
    - [FAQs](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/community-and-resources/faqs)
- [About us and Pricing](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/about-us) 
    - [What we do](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/about-us/what-we-do)
    - [Pricing](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/about-us/pricing)
    - [3D Technology](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/about-us/3d-technology)
    - [3D Products](https://3dorthopro.com/)
    - [Meet your clinicians](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/about-us/our-team)
    - [Join the network](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/about-us/join-the-network)
    - [Our NHS partnerships](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/about-us/partnership-with-nhs-trusts)
    - [News](https://6887174.hs-sites.com/blog/tag/news-article)
- [Contact and Clinic Locations](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/contact) 
    - [Book an assessment](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/contact/book-an-assessment)
    - [Our clinics](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/contact/our-clinics)

Search

- There are no suggestions because the search field is empty.

# 4 Indications of a Brachycephalic Head Shape

[Previous](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/blog/are-pillows-for-flat-head-syndrome-safe)

[Next](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/blog/risks-associated-with-using-baby-helmets)

![4 Indications of a Brachycephalic Head Shape in Children](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/hubfs/Common%20signs%20of%20brachycephalic%20skull.jpeg)

 

A [brachycephalic](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/head-abnormalities/brachycephaly) head shape is one of the most common forms of flat head syndrome. A brachycephalic skull is characterised by a flattening at the back of the head and disproportional cranial width. For more information on [what is brachycephaly](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/blog/what-is-brachycephaly) and its causes, please read our earlier blog post.

You can check if your baby has a brachycephalic head shape at home which can be easier to do after bath time when your baby’s hair is wet. If you are concerned that your baby might have a brachycephalic skull, here are four characteristics of a brachycephalic head shape to look out for which are usually most noticeable at around eight weeks of age:

#### 1. Your baby’s head is flat at the back

One of the first signs of brachycephaly is a flatness to the back of your baby’s head. This flatness can usually be seen from above and from the side. The dotted line on the diagram shows a normal-shaped head compared to a flat brachycephalic head shape. This is often caused by your baby laying on their back and applying pressure to the soft spot of their skull. If you have noticed flatness, we would recommend that you continue to place your baby on the back to sleep but to increase [tummy time](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/community-and-resources/repositioning) during waking periods as soon as possible.

![Flat head baby](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/hubfs/Flat%20head%20baby.png)

#### 2. Your baby’s head is disproportionally wide

If your baby’s head is wider than normal or the widest part is just above the ears, they could have brachycephaly. The diagram below resembles the way brachycephalic heads are wider at the back with the dotted line showing what a comparatively normal head shape would be. You might also notice that your baby’s ears are pushed out when looking at them from the front.

![Wide head baby](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/hubfs/Wide%20head%20baby.png)

#### 3. Your baby’s forehead looks like it’s too wide

The diagram below shows the way your baby’s forehead might be affected by brachycephaly. Both or one side might bulge out or your baby’s brow could be wider than expected due to the widening of the head shape. A bulbous forehead is not exclusive to brachycephaly and can also be a sign of [deformational plagiocephaly](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/blog/deformational-plagiocephaly-explained), so it is always best to be assessed by a [clinician](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/about-us/our-team) for a second opinion.

![Large forhead baby](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/hubfs/Large%20forhead%20baby.png)

#### 4. Your baby’s head is higher than normal

Because of the way brachycephaly flattens the back of the skull, your baby’s head might be higher at the back instead of smooth and round like the dotted line shown below. This ‘pointed’ shape can also be typical of babies who experienced external force from forceps or vacuum extraction at birth.

![High head shape baby](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/hubfs/High%20head%20shape%20baby.png)

If any of these descriptions or images resemble your baby’s head shape, they could have brachycephaly. The earlier flat head syndrome is detected, the higher the chances of correction. We would recommend booking a [free pre-assessment](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/contact/book-a-free-pre-assessment) with one of our clinicians so your baby’s head can be measured and assessed by an experienced professional and they can advise on the best treatment based on your baby’s needs.

If it turns out that your baby does have a brachycephalic head shape, we suggest starting with [repositioning techniques](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/community-and-resources/repositioning) before exploring further treatment options. However, depending on the severity of the brachycephaly and your baby’s age, you may want to consider a corrective brachycephaly helmet. The [TiMbandAir](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/cranial-remoulding-helmets/tim-band-air) is our custom-made orthotic helmet which can significantly improve cases of flat head syndrome and is worn for differing lengths of time depending on the severity of the deformity.

For more information or to book a free, no-obligation [pre-assessment](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/contact/book-a-free-pre-assessment) with a clinician, please [contact us](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/contact). 

[![Twitter Logo](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/hubfs/twitter-1.svg)](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https://www.technologyinmotion.com/blog/4-indications-brachycephalic-head-shape&text=4%20Indications%20of%20a%20Brachycephalic%20Head%20Shape%20in%20Children) [![Facebook Logo](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/hubfs/fb.svg)](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://www.technologyinmotion.com/blog/4-indications-brachycephalic-head-shape) [![LinkedIn Logo](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/hubfs/LinkedIn%20Icon%20.svg)](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://www.technologyinmotion.com/blog/4-indications-brachycephalic-head-shape&title=4%20Indications%20of%20a%20Brachycephalic%20Head%20Shape%20in%20Children)

## More from our community…

###### [![](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/hubfs/Pillow%20-%20Blog%20Header%20-%201200x630%20-%2002.webp) Blog post Sleeping Systems and Pillows There are sleeping systems and pillows on the market which may provide benefits but only up to the ages of 4 to 5 months, before your baby starts to roll over. Read more](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/blog/sleeping-systems-and-pillows)

###### [![](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/hubfs/Pillow%20-%20Blog%20Header%20-%201200x630%20-%2002.jpg) Blog post Can Pillows Correct a Flat Head Shape Wondering if pillows can help with flat head shape? Learn about safe options, alternative techniques, and when to consider helmet therapy. Read more](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/blog/can-pillows-correct-a-flat-head-shape)

###### [![Red Dot Award Winner: TiMbandAir](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/hubfs/TIM0016%20December%20Social%20and%20Blogs_Blog%20Header_1200x630.png) Blog post Red Dot award-winning triumph in product design excellence Discover the innovation behind Technology in Motion's TiMbandAir helmet, honoured with the prestigious Red Dot Award Best of the Best. Uncover the design excellence and groundbreaking features that set this helmet apart. Read more](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/blog/timbandair-red-dot-award)

[View all articles](https://6887174.hs-sites.com/blog)

#### Quick Links

- [Contact](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/contact)
- [TiMbandAir](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/cranial-remoulding-helmets/tim-band-air)
- [Head Shape Difference](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/head-abnormalities)
- [Pricing](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/about-us/pricing)

#### Legal Links

- [Terms and Conditions](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/terms-and-conditions)
- [Privacy Policy](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/privacy-policy)
- [Cookie Policy](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/cookie-policy)

#### Get in touch

[0330 100 1800](tel:03301001800) [info@technologyinmotion.com](mailto:info@technologyinmotion.com)

Opening Hours  
Mon to Fri: 9am - 5pm  
 Sat: Head Office closed, some clinics open   
 Sun: Closed

[Find a clinic](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/contact/our-clinics)

[![](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/hubfs/TiM_Footer_logo.svg)](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/)

Visit our sister company [3D Ortho Pro](https://3dorthopro.com/) to learn about our other 3D Orthotic Products

[![Facebook Logo](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/hubfs/facebook.svg)](https://www.facebook.com/technoinmotion/?locale=en_GB) [![Instagram Logo](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/hubfs/instagram.svg)](https://www.instagram.com/technologyinmotion/) [![LinkedIn Logo](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/hubfs/linked_in.svg)](https://www.linkedin.com/company/technology-in-motion) [![YouTube Logo](https://www.technologyinmotion.com/hubfs/youtube.svg)](https://www.youtube.com/@technologymotion)

© 2023 Technology in Motion. Created by [Coffee Design](https://coffee-design.co.uk/)

```json
{
  "@context" : "https://schema.org",
  "@type" : "BlogPosting",
  "author" : {
    "@type" : "Person",
    "name" : "TiM",
    "url" : "https://www.technologyinmotion.com/blog/author/tim"
  },
  "dateModified" : "2023-09-27T14:15:42.676Z",
  "datePublished" : "2023-09-06T11:25:22.000Z",
  "headline" : "4 Indications of a Brachycephalic Head Shape in Children",
  "image" : [ "https://www.technologyinmotion.com/hubfs/Common%20signs%20of%20brachycephalic%20skull.jpeg" ],
  "mainEntityOfPage" : {
    "@id" : "https://www.technologyinmotion.com/blog/4-indications-brachycephalic-head-shape",
    "@type" : "WebPage"
  },
  "publisher" : {
    "@type" : "Organization",
    "logo" : {
      "@type" : "ImageObject",
      "url" : "https://www.technologyinmotion.com/hubfs/3DOP%20LOGO3DOP%20LOGO%20-%20COLOUR.jpg"
    },
    "name" : "Technology in Motion"
  }
}
```