What to Expect During Your Consultation with a Head Shape Expert at Baby Bear
We offer free consultations to families who have concerns about their baby’s head shape. These appointments are full of education and objective data to help parents make informed decisions have clear understanding of our treatment process.
If you are interested in having a cranial consultation done at Baby Bear, here is an outline of what you can expect to take place. Our goal is to help parents feel informed, encouraged, comfortable, and empowered to make the best decision for their baby and family.
Intake Process: Birth, Developmental, and Medical Histories
Prior to your appointment, we will send you a link to intake documents. Having this done prior to the appointment serves a few purposes:
it gives us a better picture of your concerns prior to the evaluation,
it saves quite a bit of time during the first visit,
it helps us determine your benefits and any requirements you might have for prior authorization so we can offer a more accurate timeline of the treatment process.
We ask about birth history because it helps us better understand when and why a flat spot potentially developed. Developmental history gives us an idea of where the baby is in milestone achievement, which can predict length of helmet treatment and/or if we suggest a therapy evaluation. Lastly, medical history is important for us to know, as it may alter our recommendations for treatment.
Hand Measurements and Pictures
“Hand measurements” refer to the use of two tools that give us objective data of the size of the head. We use a head circumference measurement tool for head size, as well as a wooden caliper to measure four different points of the head to determine symmetry. These measurements establish a baseline that we then use to monitor progress if families choose to pursue treatment.
We snap a few pictures of the “before” head shape to utilize in the event that a family chooses to pursue treatment. We find these helpful as treatment progresses to monitor progress, and also love a good “before and after” comparison once treatment is done!
3D Scan
We have two different scanning technologies to obtain a 3D-graphic of the head shape. These are FDA-approved white-light laser or handheld scanners that deliver incredibly accurate images of the head shape that are then used to make the helmet. The scans are image-based, meaning they take several quick photos of the baby and then mesh the photos together for one cohesive scan. In other words, they are 100% safe and do not use any form of radiation or concerning technology.
Once the scan is taken, we are able to get an additional set of objective data from the scanning platforms that confirm and/or expand on our hand measurements. This gives us a well-rounded perspective in order to make the best recommendations for treatment.
Head Shape Categorization and Recommendations
Once we analyze the scans, we are able to accurately categorize the baby’s head shape into one of four types:
Plagiocephaly: flatness on one side of the back of the head, possible ear shift
Brachycephaly: central flattening across the back of the head
Asymmetrical brachycephaly: a combination of plagiocephaly and brachycephaly
Scaphocephaly: a long, narrow, and often tall head
The measurements also help us determine how severe the asymmetry is. From then, we are able to determine if a helmet is appropriate or not. Insurances consider a cranial remolding orthoses to be medically appropriate for babies who have moderate or more severe asymmetries.
We utilize measurements as a guide, but also consider visual presentation when recommending treatment or not. We discuss the family’s perception of the flat spot and how much stress the flatness is causing. Some families want to correct the flat spot no matter how severe; others are okay with it as long as it won’t compromise safety or development. We take time to discuss the parents’ concerns and tailor our recommendations with their perspective in mind.
Plan for Next Steps
Because we often know what insurance benefits and requirements a family has, we can have a transparent discussion about how much might be owed by the family if insurance does not fully cover the helmet. If the family feels comfortable and ready to move forward, we can order the helmet the day of the consultation and get a delivery appointment scheduled. Otherwise, we discuss necessary next steps and plan to be in touch to help guide you in the best decision for your family.
We are proud to be a clinic who never pressures or instills fear into a family to pursue a helmet. You can be confident that you will leave feeling educated and supported. While we will not make the decision for you, we will equip you with the necessary information needed to choose whichever route feels best and one you won’t regret.
If you would like to schedule a free consultation for your baby, you can do so here. We look forward to meeting you!