Cranial helmets, or cranial orthoses, are specialized devices designed to address various conditions affecting the shape and growth of a baby’s skull. These helmets play a crucial role in treating craniosynostosis, plagiocephaly, and other cranial abnormalities, promoting proper development and providing support for families. Here’s a comprehensive look at how cranial helmets work, including their application for both craniosynostosis and plagiocephaly.

What Are Cranial Helmets?

Cranial helmets are custom-made devices that fit around a baby’s head. They are designed with a hard outer shell and a soft inner lining to ensure comfort while applying gentle pressure to specific areas of the skull. These helmets guide the growth of the skull, helping to correct abnormal shapes and support healthy development.

Cranial Helmets for Craniosynostosis

Craniosynostosis is a condition where the bones in a baby’s skull fuse prematurely, affecting head shape and potentially brain development. Cranial helmets are used as a non-surgical treatment option to address these concerns:

1. Guiding Skull Growth: The helmet applies pressure to areas where the skull needs to grow while providing more space where expansion is needed. This helps in reshaping the head to a more typical contour.

2. Promoting Symmetry: By redistributing pressure, cranial helmets help correct asymmetrical head shapes, leading to a more balanced appearance.

3. Reducing the Need for Surgery: Early intervention with a helmet can often minimize the need for more invasive treatments or surgeries.

Cranial Helmets for Plagiocephaly

Plagiocephaly, often referred to as “flat head syndrome,” occurs when a baby’s head develops a noticeable flat spot, usually due to prolonged pressure on one side. Cranial helmets for plagiocephaly work similarly to those for craniosynostosis, with a few specific considerations:

1. Correcting Flat Spots: Helmets for plagiocephaly are designed to gently redirect head growth, allowing the flat areas to fill out and the head to assume a more rounded shape.

2. Providing Support: These helmets help evenly distribute pressure across the skull, promoting a more symmetrical head shape and addressing any imbalances.

3. Tailored Design: Helmets for plagiocephaly are customized to fit the baby’s head precisely, ensuring effective treatment and comfort.

When to Use a Cranial Helmet

Cranial helmets are most effective when used during the first 6 to 12 months of life, as this is when the baby’s skull is still soft and malleable. The timing and duration of helmet use are determined by a healthcare provider based on the specific needs of the baby and the severity of their condition.

Fitting and Adjustments

The process for obtaining and using a cranial helmet typically involves:

1. Initial Assessment: A specialist will evaluate the baby’s head shape and take measurements to create a custom helmet.

2. Helmet Fitting: The helmet will be fitted to the baby’s head, with adjustments made as needed to ensure a proper fit and effectiveness.

3. Regular Follow-ups: Frequent check-ups are essential to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments to the helmet as the baby’s head grows.

Caring for a Cranial Helmet

Proper care of the helmet is crucial for its effectiveness and the baby’s comfort:

• Clean Regularly: Use mild soap and water to clean the helmet and prevent skin irritation.
• Inspect for Wear: Check for signs of damage or wear that might affect fit and function.
• Monitor Skin Health: Ensure the baby’s skin remains healthy and free from irritation.

Emotional and Practical Support

Adjusting to a cranial helmet can be a significant change. Providing emotional support and reassurance to your baby is essential. Remember, the helmet is a temporary solution with long-term benefits. Many parents find comfort in knowing their efforts contribute to their child’s healthy development.

Cranial helmets are a vital tool in managing conditions like craniosynostosis and plagiocephaly, offering a non-surgical approach to promoting normal skull growth and shape. By working closely with healthcare providers and following recommended care practices, parents can help ensure their baby receives the best possible outcome from helmet therapy.

 

> If your child is about to undergo cranial helmet treatment or is currently in treatment and you would like to discuss more or need encouragement, please email me at info@elebaby.co!  I would love to connect!