As an orthotist with 47 years of experience, I’ve had the privilege of helping countless babies with flat head syndrome. When I first began my career, awareness of positional plagiocephaly was limited, and treatment options were not as well-developed as they are today. Over the years, I’ve witnessed a significant transformation in how we approach and treat this condition, and helmet therapy has become a cornerstone of effective care.
The Early Days: Navigating Limited Options
When I started in the late 1970’s, flat head syndrome wasn’t as widely recognized as it is now. Parents often came to me worried and unsure of what was happening to their baby’s head shape. At the time, the concept of using a helmet to correct skull shape was still relatively experimental and there was a lot of uncertainty around it. The “Back to Sleep” campaign, which was introduced to reduce the risk of SIDS in the 1990’s, was also contributing to an increase in cases of flat head syndrome because babies were spending more time on their backs.
Many cultural issues came into play as well as better techniques to save premature babies, but increased time in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit).
Back then, we didn’t have the advanced tools or widespread knowledge we do today, and many cases went untreated or were addressed too late. But even in those early years, I could see the potential of helmet therapy to make a real difference.
The Rise of Helmet Therapy
By the mid-1990s, helmet therapy began to gain traction as a viable treatment option for babies with the flat head syndrome. I was fortunate to be part of the early wave of orthotists who saw its benefits firsthand. Initially, there was skepticism—could a helmet truly reshape a baby’s head? But as I began working with these tiny patients, the results were undeniable.
I quickly learned that the key was early intervention. The best outcomes occurred when treatment started between 4 and 6 months of age, while the baby’s skull was still soft and easily moldable. The helmet doesn’t force the skull into shape; instead, it gently guides the growth by allowing the head to expand. Watching a baby’s head shape improve over the months was, and still is, incredibly rewarding.
Crafting Custom Solutions
No two babies are alike, and that’s especially true regarding their head shapes. One of the most important aspects of my work is customizing each helmet to fit the unique contours of a baby’s skull. Over the years, I’ve honed my skills in taking precise measurements and creating helmets that are effective and comfortable for the baby.
My company, Cranial Center, has always been at the forefront of technological advancements. We were the first in New Jersey to offer the STARband™ scanner and helmets, revolutionizing helmet therapy’s accuracy and comfort. Remarkably, we were also the third company in the world to implement 3-D technology for cranial orthosis. This cutting-edge technology allows us to create highly precise, customized helmets that ensure optimal results for each child.
Fitting a helmet requires technical expertise and a deep understanding of each family’s needs. I always explain the process to parents, so they feel informed and reassured. I aim to ensure that the helmet does its job without causing unnecessary stress for the baby or the family.
The Personal Side of My Work
The resilience of these little ones continues to inspire me after 47 years. Babies adapt to their helmets far better than most parents expect. Often, after the initial adjustment period, the baby hardly seems to notice the helmet. Many parents tell me how surprised they were at how quickly their child adjusted and how relieved they were to see the results.
The relationships I’ve built with families over the years make this work so fulfilling. I’ve heard countless stories from parents—stories of anxiety turning into relief as they see their baby’s head shape improve. These connections keep me passionate about my work, even after three decades.
The Path Ahead
Looking back on my 47 years in practice, I’m proud of how far we’ve come. Helmet therapy has evolved from a novel idea to a trusted and effective treatment. Technology has improved, making helmets lighter, more comfortable, and more efficient.
But beyond technological advancements, the core of this work remains the same: helping babies grow up healthy and giving parents peace of mind. Each helmet I fit represents a commitment to that mission, which has guided me throughout my career.
After 47 years, I can confidently say that the most rewarding part of my job is seeing helmet therapy’s positive impact on the lives of these children and their families. It’s a journey I’m honored to be part of, and I look forward to continuing this important work for years to come.
The Cranial Center of New Jersey is one of the first and finest cranial centers on the East Coast, specializing in early intervention cranial and helmet therapy. Cranial Center was the first to offer the STARband™ scanner and helmets in New Jersey and the third company in the world with 3-D technology. Owned and operated by Stuart Weiner, CPO, the Cranial Center is certified by the American Board of Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics, and Pedorthics. Our facilities are conveniently located across New Jersey: Hackensack, Hamilton, Hazlet, and Morristown. Contact us for a complimentary consultation at 800 685 9116 or at info AT cranial center dot com
