​

How do I know if my child needs a helmet?

The need for a cranial band is based on a variety of factors including severity of deformity and age of your child. Talk to your pediatrician if you suspect there might be an issue, or contact us to schedule a free scan and consultation. Measurements from a cranial scan will help determine if a helmet is needed.

​

What should I expect at the first visit?

We know this whole process can be worrisome and frustrating, but information is power. During the first visit, we will do our best to provide you with all necessary information you need to make an educated decision regarding your child's care. We will take measurements and a scan of your child's head and provide you with a printout of the scan results. We will review best practices and give you a recommendation based on the numbers. 

​

What do you mean by scan?

Before the days of scanning, plaster was used to create a model of a child's head. Not only was it messy and time consuming, it usually resulted in a really upset baby! Now, there are many systems available to take a digital scan and create a 3D model on the compute. Using Orthomerica’s SmartSoc combined with CurveCapture software, we can capture the shape of your child’s head with 99.9% accuracy in just a few minutes using a handheld digital camera. 

​

How does a cranial remolding orthosis actually work?

A cranial remolding orthosis primarily depends on growth to achieve results. The device holds the areas where growth is not desired and allows the head to expand into the flattened areas. The process is gentle and occurs slowly over time as your child's head grows.

​

How long will my child need to wear the helmet?

This depends on severity of head shape as well as how fast your child is growing. Treatment usually lasts between 2-4 months, however your child will need to wear the helmet full time during the treatment period. This means at least 23 hours per day.

​

What appointments are necessary during treatment?

Follow up appointments are necessary every 1-3 weeks to monitor the progress and ​make adjustments as your child grows.

​

What can be done to prevent plagiocephaly?

Repositioning or Tummy Time! The more time your child can spend off of the flattened areas of the head, the more likely the head will grow into a natural shape. We often recommend trying repositioning efforts in mild cases before recommending a helmet. This depends on the age of your child and severity of his or her head shape. 

 

What color and design options do you offer?

If your child has to wear a helmet, have fun and make it your own. We have a variety of patterns and colors available to choose from. You also have the option of further customizing the helmet with vinyl wraps and stickers. These can either be applied on your own, or by us for a small fee. Check out the designs from the following:

​

​

​

​

​

​

​