Cranial deformities—terms like plagiocephaly, brachycephaly, and scaphocephaly often pop up here—aren’t exactly rare in infants. These conditions, broadly lumped under “cranial asymmetries” or, more casually, “flat head syndrome,” arise because of external pressures on a baby’s still-malleable skull during those delicate first months. It’s a period where everything feels precarious. Early action matters, and pediatricians are at the forefront of…
Congratulations, you’ve made it through cranial helmet treatment for your baby’s plagiocephaly or brachycephaly! Watching their head shape transform and achieve symmetry is incredibly rewarding. However, removing the helmet continues your child’s cranial reshaping journey. Ongoing monitoring and care can help ensure their new head shape remains stable as they continue growing. Here’s what to expect in the post-helmet treatment stage.…
This article was written by a parent who didn’t want to be named and wished to share with other parents the discussions and decisions that her family made regarding a cranial helmet. Hmm, this flathead situation with the baby is stressing me out. I’ve read so much conflicting advice online about whether to get a cranial helmet. On one hand,…
The clock starts ticking when your little bundle of joy enters the world, launching us into a whirlwind of firsts, fears, and formidable parental decisions. Amidst the cooing and cuddling, a concern may arise—a cranial helmet. This piece isn’t just another dry, fact-laden lecture on infant head shaping. Oh no. This is about the why, woven with the when dipped…
As a new parent, learning that your infant needs to wear a cranial helmet can be overwhelming. Cranial helmets, also known as cranial orthoses, are used to correct conditions like deformational plagiocephaly, brachycephaly, and scaphocephaly. These conditions can cause a baby’s head to develop an asymmetrical shape due to external pressures on the skull. While cranial helmets are highly effective…
For parents of babies diagnosed with positional plagiocephaly or brachycephaly, a cranial helmet is often prescribed to help reshape their child’s head. While this headgear is effective at correcting the flattened or misshapen areas, it can understandably cause stress and worry for parents when it comes to their baby’s sleep. The good news is that babies can sleep soundly while…
Traveling with an infant presents its own set of challenges, compounded when the child requires a cranial helmet for conditions like plagiocephaly. Whether embarking on a road adventure or navigating the complexities of air travel, ensuring a smooth and comfortable experience for both parent and child is paramount; this guide draws upon the expertise of Stuart Weiner, CPO, LPO, director…
Helmets, or cranial bands, are vital for addressing shape issues like plagiocephaly or brachycephaly. Although they might seem restrictive, there are numerous ways to ensure play remains a fun and enriching part of your baby’s day. Here are some Playtime Ideas for Babies in Cranial Orthosis. Safety First: Ensuring a Secure Play Environment It’s crucial to prioritize safety during play.…
Wearing a cranial helmet is part of the journey for some little champions and our goal in today’s article is to provide tips for keeping your baby cozy in a cranial helmet. These specially designed helmets help guide head shape development, and while they might look unusual, getting used to them can be a new experience for both baby and…
Navigating social situations with your baby’s cranial orthosis (a helmet used to reshape the skull) can be a sensitive topic for many parents. Here are some tips to help you manage these situations with confidence and empathy: Educate Yourself and Others: Understand the purpose and function of cranial orthosis. This knowledge will empower you to explain its importance to others…
This will close in 0 seconds