Cranial Helmets: Effective Option for Flat Head Treatment

To correct the shape of an infant’s skull, helmet therapy has emerged as an effective treatment.

New-born babies’ skulls have soft plates with spaces between them. As the baby grows, these plates develop, slowly harden, and fuse together. But sometimes when a baby sleeps in the same position too often, these soft plates develop an uneven appearanceor a flat spot. This condition is called plagiocephaly. Luckily, it is not that dangerous in most cases. If the condition does not go away on its own, your doctor may recommend flat head treatment in New York, or exercises.

In some cases, the plates of the baby’s skull fuse too soonin an abnormal way. This condition is called craniosynostosis and can require surgical treatment (with or without helmet to correct the head shape).

How does helmeting correct my child’s head?

Cranial remolding helmets are usuallymade of a plastic outer shell with a foam lining.Gentle pressure guides the growth of the baby’s skull over time.Adjustments can be made as your baby’s head grows.

Is my child a candidate for helmet therapy?

If your baby has beenidentified with plagiocephaly, scaphocephaly, or brachycephaly, and is not older than 12 months, toddler cranial helmets in New York may be prescribed to correct the shape of your baby’s head. Helmets must be prescribed by a licensed physician because not all infants are good candidates for helmet therapy.

The Short Hills Cranial Center is a good place to get helmets. Visit www.shorthillscranialcenter.com for further assistance.