The moulding helmet by LIVIT

Every year, almost 200,000 babies are born in the Netherlands. Around ten percent of those babies develop a defect in the shape of their skulls, such as an asymmetrical distortion. Especially during the first months of a baby’s life, the skull – which mainly consists of cartilage – is very soft. If a baby often lies on the same side, the constant pressure on one side can flatten that side of its head.

 Figure 1

Particularly boys are at risk of developing this condition, which is called plagiocephaly. In many cases, the condition clears up either by itself or with the use of physiotherapy and/or posture therapy. Sometimes, however, it is necessary to prescribe a moulding helmet for the baby (also called a plagiocephaly helmet). LIVIT Orthopaedics has more than fifteen years of experience in designing moulding helmets and works closely together with a wide range of specialists. We can therefore provide the right solution for every baby with this condition.

The aim of the moulding helmet is to correct the asymmetrical growth of the baby’s head. The ideal age at which to start wearing the moulding helmet is around six months. It needs to be done at this early age because it is important that the fontanelle and the cranial sutures of the skull have not yet closed. The moulding helmet is custom-made for each individual baby and consists of a number of removable layers to ensure that the growth of the baby’s head is not obstructed in any way. Thanks to the helmet, the baby’s head is ‘trained’ to grow on the flattened side so that the skull takes on the shape of the inside of the helmet. Babies generally feel no discomfort or pain when they wear the moulding helmet, which are available in a range of colours and designs.

For whom is the helmet intended?

The moulding helmet is used to correct serious asymmetrical distortion of a baby’s head when other methods, such as infant physiotherapy, cannot (or no longer) help the condition.

Where can I get a moulding helmet?

The infant welfare centre or a GP will refer you to a paediatrician or plastic surgeon, who will examine your baby and determine whether he or she needs a moulding helmet.

Is it covered by my insurance?

Many but not all health insurers reimburse the costs of the moulding helmet. To find out more, contact your health insurance company.