Cranial remolding helmets address head shape irregularities in infants. These specialized helmets gently guide the growth of a baby’s soft, pliable skull in early months. This intervention reshapes the head, promoting a symmetrical and rounded appearance, and is typically prescribed for specific non-surgical conditions.
Common Head Shape Conditions
Two common head shape conditions addressed by helmet therapy are positional plagiocephaly and brachycephaly. Positional plagiocephaly involves a flat spot on one side of the back of the head, often pushing the ear forward on the affected side. This asymmetry can also appear in facial features, such as one cheek seeming fuller.
Brachycephaly, conversely, is an overall flattening across the entire back of the head, making it appear wider and shorter. Both conditions result from consistent external pressure on a baby’s soft skull. This pressure can stem from prolonged time in a single position, like sleeping on the back, or limited neck movement due to torticollis.
When Helmet Therapy is Indicated
Helmet therapy is considered when a baby’s head shape asymmetry is moderate to severe and hasn’t improved with repositioning strategies. The severity of flattening and the baby’s age are key factors in determining the need for a helmet. A pediatrician or specialist makes this recommendation after an assessment.
The optimal age for starting helmet therapy is 4 to 6 months. This period is crucial due to rapid skull and brain growth during early infancy, allowing the helmet to effectively redirect natural head development. While treatment can occur up to 18 months, it becomes less effective after 12 months as the skull bones harden and fuse.
Navigating Helmet Treatment
Once recommended, helmet therapy begins with a consultation and head measurements. Advanced 3D scanning creates a precise model for a custom-fitted helmet (cranial remolding orthosis), tailored to the baby’s unique head shape. The helmet applies gentle pressure to specific areas while allowing others to grow and round out.
Babies wear helmets about 23 hours daily, with one hour for bathing and cleaning. Treatment duration varies, typically two to six months, depending on condition severity and growth rate. Regular orthotist adjustments, often every few weeks, accommodate growth and ensure proper fit. Parents receive guidance on daily care, including hygiene practices and skin checks, to maintain comfort and prevent irritation.
Preventing Flat Spots
Proactive measures can prevent or reduce flat spots on a baby’s head. Tummy time, supervised periods where infants lie on their stomachs while awake, is a recommended strategy. This relieves pressure on the back of the head and strengthens neck and core muscles.
Varying a baby’s sleeping position, within safe sleep guidelines, is beneficial. This includes alternating the direction a baby lies in the crib or on a changing table, encouraging different head turns. Parents can also alternate feeding positions and encourage head movement by placing toys on different sides of the crib or play mat. Limiting extended time in car seats, swings, and bouncy seats also helps reduce prolonged pressure on the back of the head.