Helmet Therapy
Understanding Baby Helmet Therapy: What Parents Need to Know
A parent guide to understanding why some babies need cranial helmet therapy, how the HKM Pro works and what the treatment journey looks like.
If your baby's doctor or a specialist has mentioned cranial helmet therapy, it is natural to have questions. This guide explains what helmet therapy is, why it is sometimes needed and what you can expect.
Why do some babies develop head shape deformities?
The most common cause is positional: a baby spends a lot of time with the head resting in the same position. This is especially common when neck muscles are tight (torticollis), or simply from the preference some babies show for one side. The skull, still soft and growing, gradually conforms to the pressure.
Positional head shape changes are not caused by anything the parents did or did not do. They are very common — studies suggest some degree of positional asymmetry affects roughly 1 in 4 infants.
Does head shape correct on its own?
Mild asymmetry in the first weeks often improves when the baby starts lifting their head and moving more freely. However, if the asymmetry is still visible at 4 months, it is unlikely to fully self-correct. Waiting beyond this point uses up the window when helmet therapy is most effective.
Repositioning exercises (varying the baby's position, supervised tummy time) are always recommended first. When these are not enough, helmet therapy is considered.
What makes the HKM Pro different?
- Custom 3D scan: Every helmet is made to fit exactly one baby's head.
- Domestically produced in Türkiye: No international shipping wait.
- Lightweight: Designed for infant comfort.
- Regular follow-up: The helmet is adjusted at each visit as the head grows.
What does the treatment journey look like?
- Assessment: Head is measured; deformity type and severity confirmed.
- 3D scan: Precise head measurement at a CranioWell Ortez Protez Centre.
- Helmet fitting: Custom HKM Pro delivered and fitted; parents are shown how to use it.
- Daily wear: 23 hours a day. The remaining hour is for bathing and skin checks.
- Follow-up visits: Every 2–4 weeks; helmet adjusted as the head grows.
- Completion: Final 3D scan confirms the result; helmet wear ends.
Is helmet therapy safe?
Yes. The HKM Pro does not restrict brain growth and does not press on the skull. The main thing to monitor is skin condition under the helmet — minor redness at pressure points can occur and is managed at follow-up visits.
How do I get started?
Fill in the contact form or call 0551 706 87 19. Bring a recent photo of the top of your baby's head to the first appointment.