“Ask Dr. HKSH” - Flat Head Helmet for Babies

Mr. LEUNG Wing Kin, Keith

Prosthetist-Orthotist

Q1. My baby’s head looks uneven. Why?

There are several possible reasons for this. It may have to do with pressure on the baby’s head during delivery, especially when forceps are used, that may affect the head shape. Twin babies may press against each other in the womb, potentially causing prolonged pressure on their heads and leading to possible changes in head shape. Other lifestyle or environmental factors after birth may also contribute to variations in the baby’s head shape, e.g. being prone to sleeping on one side.

Q2. What should I do if my baby’s head shape looks uneven?

If you are aware of any head shape problem in your baby, consult a paediatrician first. If your baby is diagnosed with conditions such as flat head syndrome or deemed necessary for  treatment is necessary, your doctor will make referral to a Prosthetist-Orthotist, who will design a customised corrective helmet (Cranial Remolding Orthosis, CRO) based on the child’s needs.

Q3. Is it all about aesthetics?

While it is a major factor, head shape correction is not just about the baby’s appearance. What we know is that any issue with the head shape may alter the position and alignment of the eyes and ears, and might impact the child’s future development with implications for spatial hearing and vision.

Q4. When should my baby begin the corrective treatment? Can the head shape still be corrected after the “golden period” for treatment?

If your baby requires corrective treatment, it is generally recommended to start between 4 and 6 months of age, during which the head develops most rapidly and the treatment is most effective. While correction is still possible after the “golden period”, it may take longer, and the results may be less ideal.

Q5. How long does the baby need to wear the CRO each day? What precautions should be taken?

If your baby requires corrective treatment, they will need to wear the CRO helmet for 23 hours a day, and bathe and rest in the remaining hour. As babies tend to sweat more due to Hong Kong’s humid and hot weather, you may even notice profuse sweating at first. After about a month, the amount of sweat may decrease as the sweat glands adjust. Due to discomfort with sweating in hot weather, parents are advised to keep the baby indoors or in air-conditioned spaces during the treatment period, which typically lasts 3 to 6 months. If needed, they may also use a fan to help sweat dissipation. 

Q6. Will the CRO affect my child’s normal growth or development?

Parents can rest assured that the CRO will not have any adverse impact on child development. Instead of tightly constricting or pressing on the head, the helmet gently guides the head shape towards the desired development. It will not squeeze the head and cause any discomfort to children.