The complete guide to helmets for babies with plagiocephaly

Are you the parent of a newborn and have noticed that their head looks flat? Are you wondering what you can do about it? Discover everything you need to know about the flat head baby helmet in this article — it could well be the solution you have been looking for.

What is plagiocephaly?

Plagiocephaly is a skull deformity characterised by an asymmetrical flattening of the back or sides of the head. It is a relatively common condition in infants, affecting approximately 1 in 5 babies due to time spent lying on their back to sleep.

Although this can cause concern, in the majority of cases the deformity is benign and resolves naturally as the baby grows. However, in more severe cases, treatment may be necessary to restore a normal skull shape.

The flat head baby helmet: an effective solution

To correct moderate to severe forms of plagiocephaly, a specific orthopaedic helmet may be considered. This helmet, also known as a cranial orthosis, is made from plastic and foam to ensure a perfect fit around your baby’s head.

How does the helmet work?

The principle of the helmet is straightforward: it applies gentle, even pressure to the prominent areas of the head, whilst leaving space for the flat areas to develop. In this way, the skull is gradually guided towards a more symmetrical and rounded shape.

When should treatment begin?

The best time to start using a flat head baby helmet is when your child is between 4 and 12 months of age. It is during this period that the skull is still malleable enough and growth is rapid, which allows for optimal results. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional before deciding to use a helmet.

The advantages and disadvantages of the flat head baby helmet

Advantages:

Proven effectiveness: studies have shown that using a flat head baby helmet can effectively correct plagiocephaly in moderate to severe cases.

Safety: helmets are designed to be comfortable and safe for babies, using soft, non-irritating materials.

Speed: wearing the helmet generally produces visible results within just a few weeks or months.

Disadvantages:

Extended helmet wear: the treatment generally requires your baby to wear the helmet for 23 hours a day, which can be difficult to manage for some parents and babies.

Cost: the price of an orthopaedic helmet can range from several hundred to over a thousand euros, depending on the brand and options chosen. It is important to check whether your health insurance will cover part or all of the cost.

Aesthetics: some parents may not be keen on the appearance of the helmet on their baby, although there are now models available in a variety of patterns and colours.

Alternatives to the flat head baby helmet

If you are still hesitant about using a helmet to correct your baby’s plagiocephaly, there are also other less invasive methods that can help restore a normal skull shape.

Physiotherapy

Specific physiotherapy sessions may be recommended to encourage your baby to move their head and body in a balanced way, thereby promoting regular skull growth. This treatment must be carried out by a qualified professional.

Positioning

You can also try modifying your baby’s sleeping and carrying habits to distribute pressure across different areas of their head. For example, alternate the side on which you place their head when they sleep, or use an ergonomic baby carrier rather than a pram.

Overall, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional to assess the severity of your baby’s plagiocephaly and determine the best approach to take. Appropriate treatment can improve not only the appearance of your child’s head, but also their long-term well-being and quality of life.