Flat head syndrome in babies, also known as plagiocephaly or brachycephaly, is primarily caused by prolonged pressure on one part of a baby's soft skull. The main causes include:

• Sleeping position: Babies who spend a lot of time lying on their backs, especially with their head turned to the same side, can develop a flat spot. This is the most common cause, as infants often sleep on their backs to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)

• Limited head movement due to neck muscle tightness (torticollis): Tight or stiff neck muscles can make it hard for a baby to turn their head, causing them to favor one side and putting constant pressure on that part of the skull

• Premature birth: Premature babies have softer skulls and often spend more time lying on their backs without moving their heads, increasing the risk of flattening

• Pressure in the womb: Babies can develop flat spots before birth due to pressure from being squashed in the uterus, low amniotic fluid, or being part of a multiple birth (twins, triplets)

• Use of devices: Extended time spent in car seats, carriers, strollers, swings, or bouncy seats can also contribute to flattening because these positions limit head movement and put pressure on the same spot

In summary, flat head syndrome results from consistent external pressure on the baby's soft skull, often related to sleep position, muscle tightness, prematurity, or prenatal factors