Cranial Center provides STARband™ cranial remolding orthoses to address deformational Plagiocephaly and post-operative cranial remolding orthoses for craniosynostosis.
Early Intervention
The timing of intervention is crucial when it comes to treating abnormal head shapes like deformational plagiocephaly (flat head syndrome) in infants. Cranial remolding orthoses, or helmet therapy, are most effective when started during the optimal window of 3-8 months old. This strategic period yields the best results because it capitalizes on your baby’s rapid skull growth.
In the first few months of life, an infant’s skull is incredibly malleable, with soft, flexible bones and open fibrous joints called sutures. During this phase of intense growth, the skull can quickly take on an asymmetrical or misshapen appearance if sustained pressure or positioning is applied to one area.
However, this malleability also allows custom-molded cranial remolding helmets to redirect that growth into a symmetrical, rounded shape gently. The orthosis doesn’t squeeze or reshape the skull itself. Instead, it applies slight pressure to restrict growth in certain areas while leaving openings for the flattened portions to fill out proportionally.
Starting helmet therapy between 3-8 months gives parents the greatest window to guide their baby’s cranial growth before the skull begins to harden and fuse together. By about 12 months, the bones become too rigid and remolding is extremely difficult or even impossible in some cases.
Parents are encouraged to be proactive about monitoring their baby’s head shape. Any abnormal or persistent flatness, bulging, or asymmetry after the earliest few months should be evaluated by a pediatrician or craniofacial specialist. The earlier cranial remolding treatment begins in that prime 3-8 month window, the shorter and more effective the total treatment time will be.
With consistent helmet wear as directed during this key phase of rapid growth, most cases of deformational plagiocephaly can be fully corrected in just 3-6 months. The results are a nicely rounded, proportional head shape that allows for ideal continued skull and brain development.
While cranial remolding helmets require some adjustment for babies and parents, taking advantage of this critical early intervention period is well worth the effort. Don’t hesitate to speak up about any head shape concerns – acting sooner gives your little one the best opportunity for natural, healthy growth.