Does My Infant Need a Helmet?

Helmets (also called Cranial Orthosis) are commonly used as a way to assist with torticollis, plagiocephaly, brachycephaly (or flat-head) treatments.

Infants can develop flat spots on their skull, which can affect their overall appearance as they grow and develop. Physical therapists can assist with stretching, strengthening, and re-positioning to assist with decreasing the flat spot on your child’s head, but ultimately a helmet may be the most appropriate tool to achieve a more symmetrical head shape for your child. 

The decision to get a helmet for your child is up to you and your family along with your health-care providers. There are certain measurements of asymmetry that will qualify for a helmet that you can discuss with your therapist and the orthotic company.

A flat spot, asymmetry, or misshapen head is a cosmetic issue that your child will not just grow out of as they grow up.

It does not affect their brain growth, but does affect their appearance. Hair growth may or may not cover the spot and hats and helmets may fit differently on your child as they develop. If it is mild enough, it may not be noticeable as they grow. It is best to discuss this with your family and health-care providers to make the best decision for your child. 

If your child is appropriate for a helmet to assist with re-shaping their head, your physical therapist will discuss your options with you.

The process involves a referral back to your child’s pediatrician, or your pediatrician will send a prescription for a helmet if they feel it is appropriate. There is a local orthotic clinic who will then manage the measurements, helmet fitting, and follow-ups for your child’s head shape. You will likely continue to attend physical therapy visits and follow-up visits at the orthotic clinic to ensure the best care for your child. 

The best time to get a helmet for your child is after they have independent head and neck control and preferably before the age of 6 months to make the best impact on their head shape. They will wear the helmet for 23 hours of the day. Most infants tolerate it very well as it is light-weight and a medical grade product. They will typically be wearing the helmet for 3-5 months, depending on the severity of their flattening and their growth rate. 

A helmet may seem like an intimidating process or idea, but your physical therapist and health-care providers at your local orthotic clinic are there to ease your concerns and provide the easiest process they can for you. If you are concerned about your child’s head shape, reach out to your pediatrician or physical therapist as soon as possible.