Welcome new parents! If your little one has been diagnosed with a condition that requires helmet therapy, you may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to expect. Don’t worry, we’re here to help guide you through this process and provide you with all the information you need to make the most of helmet therapy for your child.
What is Helmet Therapy?
Helmet therapy, also known as cranial orthosis, is a non-invasive treatment for correcting certain skull shape abnormalities in infants. It involves the use of a custom-made helmet that fits snugly over your baby’s head, applying gentle pressure to encourage proper growth and shape of the skull.
When is Helmet Therapy Recommended?
Helmet therapy is typically recommended for infants with conditions such as positional plagiocephaly or brachycephaly, which can result from spending prolonged periods of time in one position, such as sleeping on their back. These conditions can lead to flat spots on the skull, which helmet therapy helps to correct.
What to Expect During Helmet Therapy
When your child is fitted for their helmet, the process may take a few weeks to ensure the perfect fit. Your baby will need to wear the helmet for 23 hours a day, with short breaks for cleaning and bathing. It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions on how long your baby needs to wear the helmet each day.
Tips for Parents
Here are some tips to help you and your baby adjust to helmet therapy:
- Be patient – it may take some time for your baby to get used to wearing the helmet.
- Keep the helmet clean and dry to prevent skin irritation.
- Encourage tummy time to relieve pressure on the back of the head.
- Decorate the helmet with stickers or designs to make it more fun and personalized.
Benefits of Helmet Therapy
Helmet therapy has been shown to be an effective and safe treatment for correcting skull shape abnormalities in infants. By following your healthcare provider’s recommendations and using the helmet as prescribed, you can help your child achieve a more symmetrical and properly shaped head.
Conclusion
Helmet therapy can be a helpful tool in correcting skull shape abnormalities in infants. By following your healthcare provider’s recommendations and being patient and consistent with the treatment, you can help your child achieve a more symmetrical and properly shaped head. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey – reach out to your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns you may have.
FAQs
How long does my baby need to wear the helmet each day?
Your healthcare provider will provide specific instructions on how many hours per day your baby needs to wear the helmet. Typically, it is recommended for 23 hours a day with short breaks for cleaning and bathing.
Is helmet therapy painful for my baby?
No, helmet therapy is not painful for infants. The helmet is custom-made to fit snugly on your baby’s head and applies gentle pressure to encourage proper skull growth. Your baby may take some time to adjust to wearing the helmet, but it should not cause any pain.
How long does helmet therapy typically last?
The duration of helmet therapy varies depending on the severity of the skull shape abnormality. Your healthcare provider will monitor your baby’s progress and determine when the treatment can be discontinued, which is usually around 3-6 months.
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