Cranial Remolding Orthosis (Baby Helmet) Therapy
Cranial Helmets
At Phoenix Orthotics & Prosthetics, our cranial remolding program provides personalized, compassionate care with advanced scanning technology, custom-designed cranial helmets, and close follow-up throughout treatment.
Now providing
STARband 3D
Made with the latest 3D printing technology in an FDA regulated print manufacturer.
- Lightweight and comfortable
- One-band guarantee if the patient grows out of it
- Advanced modification algorithms backed by more than 600,000 STARbands produced
- Zone padding provides adjustability over the treatment period
- Finished trim lines and bi-valve design for easier donning and doffing
- Increased ventilation for airflow and cooling
Why Families Choose Phoenix Orthotics & Prosthetics
We take time to educate parents, answer questions, and provide close follow-up care to support comfort and successful outcomes. Follow-up visits are individualized based on growth, fit, and treatment progress.
Who Benefits from Cranial Remolding Helmet Therapy?
Cranial remolding helmets are designed for infants with head shape asymmetries such as plagiocephaly, brachycephaly, and certain forms of asymmetrical head growth. Helmet therapy is most effective during periods of rapid skull growth, typically between 4 and 12 months of age.
Many infants referred for helmet therapy have already attempted repositioning techniques or physical therapy with limited improvement. Early evaluation allows families to understand all available treatment options.
Many infants with head shape concerns also have torticollis. When indicated, we work closely with your child's physician and physical therapist to ensure all contributing factors are addressed.
What to Expect During the Evaluation Process
If helmet therapy is appropriate, the digital scan is used to design a custom cranial remolding orthosis specifically for your child.
- Detailed review of your child's medical history and head shape development
- Quick, painless, radiation-free 3D scanning
- Precise measurements and analysis
- Discussion of goals, outcomes, duration, and insurance coverage
Custom Helmet Fabrication and Fitting
Once the scan and measurements are completed, your child's custom helmet is fabricated to match their unique anatomy and treatment needs.
During fitting, we verify proper fit and comfort, review wear instructions and care instructions, answer questions, and establish follow-up care.
How Does a Cranial Remolding Helmet Work?
A cranial remolding orthosis does not squeeze or force the skull into a new shape. It gently guides natural head growth by providing space in areas where growth is desired while limiting growth in prominent areas.
Because treatment relies on natural growth, starting therapy during infancy generally provides the greatest opportunity for correction.
Follow-Up Care and Monitoring
Regular follow-up care is essential. After fitting, we monitor progress and make adjustments as needed to accommodate growth and maintain correction.
Treatment length commonly ranges from 2 to 6 months, depending on age, growth patterns, and severity.
Insurance Authorization Information
Many insurance plans provide coverage for cranial remolding orthoses when medical necessity criteria are met. Our team can help verify benefits and obtain authorizations.
If you call your insurance to check coverage, the medical code for the device is S1040.
Initial Evaluation
A thorough evaluation of an infant's head shape is completed during the first visit. After obtaining history from parents or caregivers, measurements are taken, the baby's head is scanned, and six clinical photographs are taken for comparison at the end of treatment.
After the evaluation, we obtain insurance authorization. Once approved, the fabrication scan is used so the STARband 3D can be printed and delivered in about two weeks.
Delivery and Fitting
There is a gradual 5-day break-in period. Your child will begin by wearing the helmet for short periods and slowly increase wear time until reaching the recommended 23 hours per day.
- How to properly put on and remove the helmet
- Recommended wear time
- Cleaning and daily care instructions
- Normal skin markings and what to watch for
- When to contact our office
- Emergency and troubleshooting information
- Tips for helping your child adjust
One-Week Follow-Up
Approximately one week after delivery, your child returns for follow-up care. This visit lets us evaluate fit, check skin tolerance, make adjustments, and ensure the plan is progressing as expected.
We're here to support you every step of the way on your journey to becoming part of Team Roundhead.