Some babies develop head shape irregularities that can be addressed with a cranial helmet. While the sight of a baby wearing a helmet might initially cause concern, it is a common and effective treatment for specific head shape issues. This article explores why some babies require cranial helmets and what the treatment process involves.
Understanding Cranial Asymmetry
Cranial asymmetry refers to conditions where a baby’s head develops an atypical shape. The two primary conditions that often lead to the recommendation of a cranial helmet are positional plagiocephaly and brachycephaly. Positional plagiocephaly, sometimes called “flat head syndrome,” occurs when a baby develops a flat spot on one side of the back of the head, making it appear asymmetrical. This can also cause the ears to be misaligned.
Brachycephaly is characterized by a general flattening across the entire back of the head, causing the head to appear wider than it is long. Both plagiocephaly and brachycephaly are common conditions, affecting approximately 1 in 5 babies. These conditions primarily relate to the skull’s shape and do not affect brain growth or neurological development.
Factors Contributing to Head Shape Irregularities
Several factors can contribute to the development of head shape irregularities in infants. A primary reason is prolonged time spent in positions that exert consistent pressure on one area of the soft, pliable skull. This often includes babies spending extended periods on their backs, a practice widely recommended to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). This can lead to flattening if the baby consistently rests their head in the same spot, such as in car seats, swings, or bouncers.
Another significant contributing factor is torticollis, a condition involving tightness in the neck muscles. Torticollis can limit a baby’s ability to turn their head, causing them to favor one side and thus placing continuous pressure on that area of the skull. The baby’s position in the womb can also influence head shape. Premature babies are also more susceptible to head shape issues because their skull bones are softer and they often spend more time lying in one position.
How Helmet Therapy Reshapes the Skull
Cranial helmet therapy employs a custom-fitted orthotic device to gently correct a baby’s skull shape over time. Newborn skulls are composed of soft plates with spaces between them, which gradually harden and fuse as the baby grows. The helmet works by applying gentle, consistent pressure to the prominent, flattened areas of the skull.
Simultaneously, the helmet allows space for the flattened regions to grow and round out naturally. This process guides the natural growth of the baby’s head, redirecting it toward a more symmetrical shape. Helmet therapy is most effective during periods of rapid head growth when the skull is still highly malleable.
The Helmet Treatment Process
The helmet treatment process begins with a diagnosis and assessment by a healthcare provider, often a pediatrician or a specialist like an orthotist. This initial evaluation involves assessing the baby’s head shape and severity of asymmetry, sometimes using 3D scanning technology to create a precise image of the head.
The timing of treatment is important, with optimal results achieved when therapy begins between 3 to 8 months of age, capitalizing on rapid skull growth. After the initial assessment, a custom helmet is designed and fitted. Babies wear the helmet for approximately 23 hours a day, removing it only for bathing and cleaning. Daily care involves cleaning the helmet with mild soap and water, ensuring it is completely dry before reapplication, along with regular skin checks for irritation. The duration of treatment varies based on the severity of the condition and the baby’s age, ranging from a few weeks to several months. Regular follow-up appointments monitor progress and make necessary adjustments to the helmet as the baby’s head grows.