Not every abnormal head shape needs to be treated with helmet therapy. If they are noticed early (1-3 months), less developed deformities can be treated by positioning the baby differently (moving head whilst sleeping; tummy time whilst awake) or neck stretching exercises (physiotherapy). In other words, during the first few months, it is an option to wait for the head to even itself out through its natural growth process.

If you have some concerns at this early age, our doctors are more than happy to show you some simple neck exercises. Do call us if you would like to make an appointment for some advice. The result can be that you will have no need for a helmet later on. These initial consultations are free of charge.

The most important circumferential head growth (12cm) takes place in the first year of life. In the second year, head growth is only 2.5cm, so treatment after that time is unlikely to provide a satisfactory result.

It is critical that you consult your doctor whilst the head is still growing, since this growth is necessary to round-out your baby's head. Even the most severe cases can be remedied, if treated at an early age.

If you have any concerns at all, we recommend you visit your doctor before your baby turns 4-5 months old.

If babies are treated early enough, helmet therapy can be 100% effective, even with extreme cases of deformity. In terms of timeframe, obviously the more serious the deformity, the longer the treatment. More importantly, the younger the patient, the quicker the treatment.

As a guideline (this will vary with age of patient, and level of deformity):

1) Consultation with a doctor, who willl determine the seriousness of the case and advise whether or not to apply helmet therapy. If the parents wish to go ahead with the treatment, the doctor will take a scan of the baby's head, in order to get an individually shaped helmet.

2) 1-2 weeks later, the baby needs to come back to the clinic to have the helmet fitted correctly. From this point, the baby will need to wear the helmet for 23 hours per day. Each helmet has an outer plastic shell with a foam lining, and is customised for the patient. Essentially, the helmet will hinder growth in prominent areas and encourage it in the flattened parts.

3) Depending on the age and level of deformity, the doctor will schedule 3-4 further check-ups for your child. The helmet will be readjusted at each check-up, to continue the re-shaping process. The entire procedure should take 3-6 months.

The Assessment of the Baby's Head Growth
1) The severity of head deformity is measured by the caliper.

2) The CRANIO helmet promotes the growth of the flattened areas. The gap between the helmet and the baby's head will grow smaller and smaller as the treatment goes on. The younger the baby, the quicker the head will grow into the space in the helmet. Unlike the other helmet providers, the CRANIO helmet has an open top, which allows the doctor to make continuous adjustments to the helmet easily and accurately.

Information for Parents - To Print & Read!

The CRANIO helmet - Instructions for Use (.PDF file)

Ahead4Babies charges £2000 for the entire treatment. This includes the initial consultation, helmet fitting and all follow-up appointments.

There is no charge for the initial consultation. If you would like to send us your baby's photos before consultation, we will also have a look at them, free of charge.