Did you know we are able to provide patients with custom protective helmets using the same technology we use for cranial remolding helmets? Customized protective helmets are essential for patients that have an abnormally shaped head.
A protective helmet cannot protect the head if it cannot stay on securely. A poor fitting helmet leaves extra room for the helmet to move around and can increase the occurrence of concussions. An ill fitting helmet can also be too tight in areas and cause skin breakdown. If your child has an abnormally shaped head, they may require a customized protective helmet.
Custom protective helmets are not only based on your child's exact head shape, they are also meant for modification. That means your child is supposed to grow with the helmet and the helmet should continue to be adjusted to allow for consistent optimal protection.
Common reasons a custom protective helmet is needed:
Epilepsy
Autism
Post surgical
Brain Injury
Cerebral Palsy
Head Banging
Common head abnormalities that benefit from a custom protective helmet:
Scaphocephaly (narrowing of the head)
Brachycephaly (widening of the head)
Plagiocephaly (asymmetrical flattening)
Macrocephaly (larger head)
Microcephaly (small head)
Some people believe that head shapes correct on their own overtime. We know this is not the case because for many kids, an off the shelf protective helmet won’t work because the head remains atypical.
What is a custom protective helmet?
A custom protective helmet requires a scan from the 3 dimensional STARscanner or the SmartSoc. This scan is then used to create mold of your child's head and then a protective helmet is made based off of that mold.
Unlike the remolding helmet, the protective helmet is not meant to change the shape of the head. it is not designed to hold one side and allow room for the head to grow on another side. It is designed to fit snuggly and securely.
Are Custom Protective Helmets Covered By Insurance?
In some cases, insurance will cover a custom protective helmet if we can prove that an off the shelf helmet just won't cut it! We are able to provide this proof with our scanner's documentation showing the child has a head shape that is a little outside the average range. If your insurance will not cover a customized protective helmet, we can help apply for grants and foundations that will help partially cover or completely cover the cost of a protective helmet.
Do you know a kiddo that would be safer with a custom protective helmet? For more information, don't hesitate to contact our office!
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