Expert: David Olson, MD - 4/18/2009

Question
Hi Dr. Olson,

My 6 month old daughter has some positional flattening to the back of her head.  It's slightly flatter on the right, but not significant.  We are considering a helmet for her, but I've been reading that positioning her differently can yield the same results that a helmet would (it just takes longer).  I was hoping you could give me some insight into the use of these helmets.  My daughter doesn't have any facial or ear uneveness.  Do you think in most cases it can work itself out?  What would I be risking if I chose not to put her in the helmet?  Could she suffer developmentally if her head doesnt round out?

Any insight you can give me into the world of helmets would be great.  Thank you!

Answer
Hi, Amanda,

I seldom have found helmets helpful unless the flattening is significant, and this is a determination that one has to make by either careful measurements or just looking.  The vast number of mild cases get better on their own.  Discuss this with your doctor.  Helmets don't hurt, I just think mostly they are a waste of time and just allow parents to feel they are doing something.  No developmental issues at all here.

Good luck, Dr. Olson