Does my baby need a helmet? And are they effective?

As a new parent there is a lot on your mind. Positional Plagiocephaly is on the rise. How do you know if your baby has flat head syndrome, and do they need treatment? Today our topics are at the top of a lot of parent’s lists. Does my baby need a helmet for Flat Head Syndrome? What are the effects of a baby helmet and do they really work? As new parents we had these same concerns, let’s dive in.

Does my baby need a helmet?

Flat Head Syndrome, also known as plagiocephaly or brachycephaly, often occurs when a baby's head develops a flat spot due to prolonged pressure on one part of the skull. This can happen if a baby consistently rests their head in the same position, such as during sleep.

In some cases, pediatricians may recommend repositioning techniques and activities to help improve head shape. These may include:

1. Tummy Time: Encourage supervised tummy time when your baby is awake and alert. This helps strengthen neck and shoulder muscles and reduces the risk of developing a flat spot.
2. Change Sleeping Positions: Rotate the direction your baby's head faces while sleeping to prevent constant pressure on one part of the skull.
3. Hold Your Baby Upright: Increase the time your baby spends in your arms or held upright to reduce pressure on the back of the head.
4. Use a Special Pillow: Some parents use specially designed pillows that can help distribute pressure more evenly when their baby is lying down.

Helmet therapy is another option that some healthcare providers may suggest for more severe cases of Flat Head Syndrome. Helmets are custom-made to fit a baby's head and are designed to gently reshape the skull by providing consistent, controlled pressure on specific areas.

Whether or not your baby needs a helmet depends on the severity of the flat spot and your pediatrician's assessment. They will consider factors such as the baby's age, the extent of head flattening, and other individual health considerations.

It's essential to consult with your pediatrician, who can assess your baby's condition and provide guidance on the most appropriate course of action. They can discuss the potential benefits and risks of helmet therapy and help you make an informed decision based on your baby's unique needs.

What are the effects of a baby helmet, and do they really work?

The use of helmets in treating flat head syndrome is a topic of ongoing research and discussion within the medical community. How effective varies case by case, here are some key points to consider:

1. Effectiveness:
• Helmets are designed to provide a constant, gentle pressure on specific areas of the baby's skull, promoting more symmetrical growth.
• Research suggests that helmets can be effective in reshaping the head in certain cases, especially when used during the optimal treatment window (typically before 12 months of age).
2. Timing is Crucial:
• Helmet therapy is often most effective when started at an early age when the baby's skull is still growing rapidly.
• The skull is more malleable during the first few months of life, making it easier for the helmet to influence head shape.
3. Severity Matters:
• Helmets are generally recommended for moderate to severe cases of flat head syndrome.
• In mild cases, repositioning techniques, tummy time, and other non-invasive measures may be sufficient.
4. Parental Compliance:
• The success of helmet therapy also depends on the parents' commitment to following the treatment plan, including ensuring the helmet is worn consistently as prescribed.
5. Individual Variation:
• Responses to helmet therapy can vary among individuals. Some babies may show significant improvement, while others may have more modest results.
6. Consultation with a Specialist:
• The decision to use a helmet is typically made after consultation with a pediatric specialist, such as a pediatrician, pediatric neurosurgeon, or orthotist.
• These specialists will assess the severity of the flat head syndrome and consider other factors before recommending helmet therapy.

While helmet therapy can be an effective treatment for moderate to severe cases of Flat Head Syndrome,  it's important to be aware that there can be some potential drawbacks or considerations associated with the use of baby helmets. It's crucial to discuss these with your pediatrician or the healthcare professional overseeing your baby's treatment. Some side effects include. 

• Skin Irritation:
• Babies' skin is sensitive, and wearing a helmet for an extended period may sometimes lead to skin irritation. This can include redness, chafing, or the development of pressure sores.
• Proper helmet fit, regular cleaning, and monitoring your baby's skin can help minimize the risk of skin issues.
• Discomfort and Adjustment Period:
• Some babies may initially find wearing a helmet uncomfortable or may be resistant to it. It can take time for babies to adjust to the sensation of having something on their heads.
• Parents may need to be patient during the adjustment period and encourage positive associations with the helmet.
• Heat and Sweating:
• Helmets can trap heat, and babies may sweat more while wearing them. It's important to monitor your baby for signs of overheating, especially in warmer climates.
• Ensuring proper ventilation and keeping the helmet clean can help mitigate this issue.
• Care and Maintenance:
• Helmets require regular cleaning to prevent odors and ensure hygiene. Cleaning guidelines provided by the healthcare professional should be followed carefully.
• Ensuring that the helmet is properly fitted and maintained is crucial for its effectiveness and your baby's comfort.
• Duration of Use:
• The duration of helmet therapy varies for each baby and depends on the severity of the flat head syndrome. Some babies may need to wear the helmet for several months.
• Parents need to be committed to consistently following the treatment plan and using the helmet as prescribed by the healthcare professional.
• Impact on Daily Activities:
• Helmet therapy may impact certain daily activities, such as bath time or the choice of clothing. Parents should be prepared to make adjustments to accommodate the helmet.

While helmets can be effective, they are not the only option, and the decision to pursue helmet therapy should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional. They will assess the severity of the condition and provide guidance on the most appropriate course of action based on individual circumstances.

Thank you for tuning it. If you or a loved one are concerned about Flat Head Syndrome with your infant learn how Crescent Womb can help prevent Flat Head Syndrome or supplement your current care routine here.