Expert Helmet Therapy for Baby Flat Head & Plagiocephaly
Trusted by families across the country, Cranial Technologies offers personalized cranial helmet therapy to treat plagiocephaly, flat head syndrome, and more — with proven results.
Trusted nationwide
400,000+ babies treatedWhat is Plagiocephaly?
Plagiocephaly, also known as baby flat head syndrome, is when a baby's head has a flat spot or is misshapen. It's caused by prolonged pressure on the skull — often from a baby spending a lot of time on their back — or from positioning in the womb.
The condition is common and estimated to affect approximately 1 in 2 (47%) infants. When head shape is determined to be moderate to severe, experts recommend helmet therapy as the most effective treatment.
Slight asymmetry often manageable with repositioning techniques at home.
Noticeable flattening — a pediatric cranial specialist will typically recommend evaluation for helmet therapy.
Significant asymmetry — helmet therapy with the DOC Band® is strongly recommended for best outcomes.
¹ Source: Pediatric clinical studies on positional plagiocephaly prevalence.
What Does Plagiocephaly Look Like?
Plagiocephaly can appear in several different ways. Here are the most common types of infant head shape conditions we treat.
Flat spot on one side of the back of the head, often causing the ear and forehead to shift forward on the same side.
Uniform flattening across the entire back of the head, making the skull appear wider and shorter than normal.
A combination of both conditions — flattening across the back with additional asymmetry on one side. Very common and highly treatable.
What Causes Plagiocephaly & Infant Head Shape Issues?
Several factors can cause or contribute to flat head syndrome in babies. Understanding the cause helps our cranial specialists develop the best treatment plan for your little one.
Babies sleeping on their back (as recommended for safety) can develop flat spots from prolonged pressure on soft skull bones.
A tight neck muscle that causes babies to favor turning their head one way, increasing pressure on one side of the skull.
Limited space in the womb can cause the skull to develop unevenly before birth.
Prolonged time in car seats, bouncers, and swings can increase pressure on one part of the skull.
Premature babies have softer skulls that are more vulnerable to flattening from external pressure.
Twins and multiples are at higher risk due to limited womb space and positioning challenges after birth.
What is Helmet Therapy?
Helmet therapy — also called cranial orthosis — uses a custom-fitted baby helmet to gently guide your baby's head growth into a rounder, more symmetrical shape. The helmet works by creating space in the flat areas, allowing the skull to grow naturally into a better shape.
At Cranial Technologies, our DOC Band® is the most researched cranial helmet available. Each helmet is custom designed using a precise 3D scan of your baby's head — ensuring a perfect, comfortable fit.
3D scanned and designed specifically for your baby — not a one-size-fits-all solution.
Babies adapt quickly — most are comfortable within the first few days.
Removed only for bathing and cleaning. Progress is monitored regularly by your cranial specialist.
How Long Does Helmet Therapy Take?
Treatment typically lasts 2–6 months. The earlier treatment begins, the faster and more effective the results. Most babies start between 3–6 months of age.
Our cranial specialist assesses your baby's head shape and determines if helmet therapy is recommended.
A quick, painless scan captures the precise shape of your baby's head to custom-design the DOC Band®.
Your baby's custom cranial helmet arrives in about 2 weeks and is fitted by your specialist.
Regular check-ins every 2–4 weeks to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments.
Treatment ends when your baby's head reaches the target shape — typically within 2–6 months.
What Does Helmet Therapy Cost?
The cost of baby helmet therapy can vary based on your insurance coverage and specific treatment needs. Our team is here to help you navigate your options.
Many insurance plans cover helmet therapy when plagiocephaly is diagnosed as moderate to severe. Our team will verify your benefits before you commit to anything.
We offer flexible financing options to ensure every family can access the care their baby needs, regardless of insurance status.
Your first visit with a pediatric cranial specialist is completely free — no commitment required. We'll assess your baby's head shape and answer all your questions.
With locations across the U.S., finding a cranial technologies specialist near you has never been easier. Search by zip code to find your closest clinic.
Successful Helmet Therapy Outcomes
Every baby is unique — and so is every treatment journey. Here are some of the families we've had the privilege of helping.
"We noticed the flat spot at 8 weeks and our pediatrician referred us. After 4 months with the DOC Band, the results were incredible." — Sarah M.
"The team explained everything so clearly. Our son adapted to the helmet within days and we saw changes within the first month." — James & Priya K.
"I was nervous at first but the specialist put us at ease. Best decision we ever made for our daughter." — Michelle T.
Frequently Asked Questions About Helmet Therapy & Plagiocephaly
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*In most cases, it is not advisable to start treatment after 6 months of age as the skull becomes less responsive to reshaping. Early action leads to the best outcomes.