Cranial Technologies

These days, it is not uncommon to see babies wearing helmets. No, they're not for protection; their primary purpose is to correct head shape abnormalities. Flat spots, or in medical terms, plagiocephaly, is common in infants. A helmet is used to round out the head shape as a baby’s head grows. But how do helmets work, and how do you know if your child needs one?

Cranial helmets are used to treat at head syndrome, also called plagiocephaly. Plagiocephaly is a condition where a baby develops a flat spot on the back or side of the head. Flat spots can be present at birth due to positioning in the womb, or they can be acquired over time through environmental factors like back sleeping. Babies' heads are soft and can change shape due to prolonged pressure. Parents should check early and often for signs of plagiocephaly, as early intervention is the best way to ensure the optimal outcome for your child. You can take simple steps to prevent flat spots from worsening, such as prioritizing tummy time and limiting the use of carriers and other convenience devices.

Treatment methods can vary depending on the baby's age and the severity of the head shape. If a baby is younger than 4 months of age, a pediatrician may refer them to physical therapy or a repositioning program. After the 4 month mark, helmet therapy is prescribed to treat moderate to severe flat spots. Helmet therapy can successfully round out the head shape and prevent further flattening.

At Cranial Technologies, the DOC Band® is custom-made to t each baby’s unique head shape. The band gently guides their head growth to the desired areas, all while being completely comfortable for the baby to wear. The DOC Band doesn’t squeeze or apply pressure— and, unlike other options, it’s designed to gently hold specic areas to redirect growth to attened spots, correcting your baby’s head shape in a personalized way, which can help reduce treatment time. While some helmets simply allow the head to grow into their shape, the DOC Band is adjusted as needed by expert clinicians to track progress, ensuring your baby gets the best possible results. The DOC Band is designed with your baby's comfort in mind. It is lightweight and made from breathable materials, helping babies adapt to wearing it quickly.

Yes! Helmets are highly effective in treating plagiocephaly. The DOC Band can treat babies in as little as ve weeks and has over 35 years of proven results. Treatment time and outcomes depend on the baby's age and the severity of their condition. If you notice a flat spot or asymmetry on your baby’s head, don’t hesitate to talk to your pediatrician. Early intervention, ideally between 4 and 6 months of age, can help shorten treatment time.

Look for signs of plagiocephaly, such as head-turning preferences, abnormal neck or muscle tightness, asymmetries in the face, and of course, flattening on the back or side of the head. Babies' skulls are soft and grow rapidly, so flat spots can develop quickly. Parents should consistently monitor to catch plagiocephaly early, ensuring the most successful treatment. If you have concerns, discuss them with your pediatrician – and don't hesitate to get a second opinion if needed.

Remember, plagiocephaly is common. Many parents have questions regarding their babies head shapes and there are many resources available. Always discuss any concerns with your pediatrician. Cranial Technologies offers head shape assessments at no cost to you. You will leave your assessment with a recommendation from our expert team, and a comprehensive report to discuss with your pediatrician.