Cranial-remolding-helmets – expert care for your baby
Using advanced 3D scanning technology and the trusted STARband system, we help infants with plagiocephaly develop symmetrical head shapes during their crucial growth period.
What to expect at your first appointment
Cranial remolding focuses on quantitative data through measurements of a child’s head shape to regain symmetry.
The initial consultation will be used to explain the process of cranial remolding to the parent(s), and start with baseline measurements of the Cranial Vault index to see if the child is an appropriate candidate for cranial remolding, or if there are other practices to help with the head shape as the child grows. We use starband technology by Orthomerica for measurements, 3D capture, and fabrication.
What parents want to know about cranial helmets from Miller Prosthetics & Orthotics
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If you've noticed flat spots on your baby's head or asymmetry in their head shape, a helmet might help. This is incredibly common—about 1 in 4 babies experience some degree of plagiocephaly, often from sleeping on their backs (which is exactly what they should be doing to reduce SIDS risk). During your free consultation, we'll take precise measurements to determine if your baby is a good candidate for treatment, or if their head shape will improve naturally as they grow. The ideal treatment window is typically between 4-7 months of age.
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Most babies wear their cranial helmet for 3-6 months, depending on the severity of the asymmetry and their age when treatment begins. Your baby will wear the helmet 23 hours a day, with breaks for bathing and skin checks. We'll see you regularly for adjustments and to track progress. The best part? Nearly all our patients achieve successful results with just ONE helmet, which means significant cost savings compared to providers who use multiple helmets.
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No. There are real physical concerns regarding asymmetry in an infant’s skull. There is concern for potential jaw alignment problems causing TMJ and headaches. Head shape flattening can affect a baby’s Eustachian tubes which studies show can lead to a higher incidence of ear infections and potential hearing loss. There can be issues with the alignment of the eyes causing strabismus also known as eye misalignment. There are other potential issues that need further study including the reduction in protection while wearing a normally shaped athletic or bike helmet with an abnormally shaped head.
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The helmet does not squeeze the head into shape like tooth braces. It uses the same principles that caused the baby’s head to become flat but in reverse. The child wasn’t crying in pain because the head was getting flat, so we will not cause any pain by fixing it either.
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Many insurance plans do cover cranial remolding helmets when medically necessary. We'll work with your insurance company to verify coverage before we begin, so you'll know what to expect. We understand this is an investment in your child's wellbeing, and we'll help you navigate the financial side of treatment as clearly as possible.
Pediatric experience that puts parents at ease
Noticing something different about your baby's head shape can be worrying. You want answers, and you want to know your child is in expert hands. Our Certified Orthotist, Sean Greer, has over 24 years of experience with cranial remolding and has been certified since 2002. He's helped hundreds of families through this process.
We use STARband technology—the #1 selling cranial orthosis in the world and the system featured on Good Morning America. Our 3D scanning technology provides precise measurements without any discomfort to your baby, and we choose from multiple FDA- approved designs to treat your child’s specific head shape. Many can be customized with different colors.
“We have never gotten anything but excellent customer service and compassionate care from Miller.
It can be overwhelming to parent a child with extra needs and I am constantly worried about making the best decisions… It is a weight off of my shoulders to have a great team we can trust and turn to for orthotic needs!”
– Orthotics patient