If you’ve noticed your baby developing a flat spot on their head, you’re not alone. Flat head syndrome (plagiocephaly) is a common condition that affects many infants — often due to sleeping positions or limited neck movement.
Parents often wonder, “Does helmet therapy really work?” and “Is it worth the effort and cost?”
Let’s look at how helmet therapy works, its success rate for plagiocephaly in New Jersey, and what you can expect from treatment at NJ Craniofacial Center.
What Is Helmet Therapy?
Helmet therapy, also known as cranial remolding orthosis, involves a custom-fitted helmet designed to gently shape your baby’s skull as they grow.
The helmet doesn’t squeeze or press the head; instead, it redirects growth into flatter areas while allowing natural head development.
At the NJ Craniofacial Center, our specialists use advanced 3D scanning to design helmets tailored for each child’s unique head shape, ensuring comfort and accuracy.
How Effective Is Helmet Therapy for Flat Head Syndrome?
Helmet therapy has shown high success rates, especially when started early — typically between 4 and 8 months of age.
Helmet Therapy Success Rate for Plagiocephaly
- Clinical studies report 85–95% improvement in head shape when therapy begins within the optimal age window.
- Babies treated before 6 months often require a shorter duration (3–4 months) and achieve excellent results.
- Older infants (9–12 months) can still see improvement, though it may take longer.
In New Jersey, outcomes have been very encouraging, with parents reporting visible changes within a few weeks under proper specialist supervision.
When to Consider Helmet Therapy
Not every flat head requires a helmet. Your doctor or craniofacial specialist will assess:
- The severity of flattening (mild, moderate, or severe)
- Your baby’s age and growth rate
- Whether repositioning or physical therapy has improved the shape
If flatness persists after conservative treatment, your pediatrician may recommend helmet therapy for optimal correction.
What to Expect During Helmet Therapy
1. Custom Fitting
Your baby’s head will be scanned to create a lightweight, comfortable, and precisely fitted helmet.
2. Duration of Treatment
Most babies wear the helmet for 20–23 hours a day for 3–6 months, depending on the severity and response.
3. Follow-up Visits
Regular follow-ups (every 2–4 weeks) help track growth and make adjustments for continued improvement.
4. Visible Results
Parents often notice a rounder, more symmetrical head shape within weeks, with full results visible after the treatment cycle.
Helmet Therapy vs. No Treatment: What’s the Difference?
| Aspect | With Helmet Therapy | Without Helmet Therapy |
| Head Shape Correction | 85–95% improvement | Often limited |
| Duration of Correction | 3–6 months | May take over a year |
| Confidence in Outcome | High, predictable | Variable |
| Need for Future Intervention | Rare | Possible in severe cases |
Is Helmet Therapy Worth It?
For most parents, the answer is yes — especially when moderate or severe plagiocephaly affects symmetry.
Beyond cosmetic benefits, early correction can also support balanced jaw alignment, facial growth, and even helmet fit for sports or safety gear later in life.
Why Choose NJ Craniofacial Center for Helmet Therapy in New Jersey?
At NJ Craniofacial Center, we specialize in non-invasive treatment for plagiocephaly and other cranial deformities.
Our multidisciplinary team, led by pediatric craniofacial specialists, ensures:
- Accurate diagnosis and severity grading
- Custom helmet fitting with digital precision
- Ongoing support for parents throughout therapy
We are proud to offer New Jersey’s trusted care for infants with flat head syndrome.
Take the Next Step
If you’re asking yourself, “Does helmet therapy work?” — the answer is clear: yes, it does when guided by experienced specialists.
Book an appointment today to see if your baby qualifies for helmet therapy with our craniofacial team.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- How long does helmet therapy take?
Most babies wear the helmet for 3–6 months, depending on their age and the severity of the flatness. - Is helmet therapy uncomfortable for my baby?
No. Helmets are lightweight, padded, and custom-made to fit comfortably. Babies usually adapt within a few days. - Can repositioning alone fix a flat head?
For mild cases, repositioning and tummy time may help. Moderate to severe cases often benefit from helmet therapy for faster and more complete correction. - Does insurance cover helmet therapy in New Jersey?
Many insurance providers cover treatment if deemed medically necessary. Our team can help you navigate coverage options. - When is the best age to start helmet therapy?
The ideal window is 4–8 months, while skull growth is still rapid. Early intervention yields the best outcomes.
