Understanding STARband Cranial Helmets: A Guide for Parents Every parent wants to make informed and effective choices regarding their children’s health. If your pediatrician has mentioned cranial helmets, specifically the STARband helmet, here’s what you need to know about their role in shaping your infant’s future. The Need for Cranial Helmets Infants spend a significant amount of time on their…
This story is from a recent parent who described Navigating a Baby’s Cranial Helmet. When we first decided to use a cranial helmet for our little one, emotions swept over us. We were filled with hope that it would aid in correcting his head shape, apprehension about his adjustment period, and concern over its potential impact on his sleep. However,…
Every week, the Cranial Center of New Jersey receives email and social media questions about cranial helmets, “flat-head syndrome,” and other questions. Today, cranial orthosis questions were answered by Cranial Center staff members. So here we go. What is deformational Plagiocephaly? Deformational Plagiocephaly is characterized by unusual flattening of an infant’s head, and a prominent or flattened forehead is often…
Cranial orthosis, commonly known as helmet therapy, has been used for decades to treat abnormal head shapes in infants. While its use declined in the early 2000s due to questions about its effectiveness, recent research has renewed interest in this non-invasive approach for correcting skull deformities that can arise due to restricted movement, sleeping position, and other factors. The cranial…
As the cold winter days begin to give way to warmer spring temperatures, parents of infants with cranial helmets look forward to getting back outside. While reshaping babies’ soft skulls is necessary, the helmets can feel confining during the long winter months, mainly spent indoors. The spring season offers opportunities to leave the house and provides some welcome relief. Here are…
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…
In the world of pediatric care, cranial helmets serve as a critical intervention for infants grappling with plagiocephaly and other forms of positional skull deformities. While these devices are instrumental in shaping a baby’s head, they also introduce unique challenges for the child and their caregivers. This article delves into Adapting to Life with a Cranial Helmet: Strategies for Families,…
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.…
Flat Head Syndrome, medically termed plagiocephaly, is a common condition affecting many newborns. While the name might sound alarming, it’s important for parents to understand that with early detection and proper care, it’s typically treatable. This article aims to guide you through the early signs to watch for, offering peace of mind and empowering you with knowledge. What is Flat…
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…