Are all cranial molding helmets and bands alike?
The general concept and products are similar, although we feel that it is extremely important to get complete coverage of the cranium to promote the best outcome. We are usually only concerned about the upper cranial vault, and bands really only address that aspect. Your baby has sutures over and around the ears and over the top of the head. Since the helmet works by inhibiting growth in the direction of the buldge while allowing growth in the direction of the flattening, a band which does not give good coverage in the area of the sutures around and above the ears could allow growth or bulging in that area, thereby creating a deformation. It is own experience that only a complete helmet will insure against this albeit relatively uncommon side effect. It is nevertheless a possibility that the Ballert Helmet guards against. Where the window of opportunity can be numbered in a few short months, we feel that it is necessary to ensure the best results possible.
