Since 2007, Altru’s Prosthetics and Orthotics has shaped the heads of 1,000 local babies.
Thanks to generous donor gifts, Altru Health Foundation provided funds for the purchase of a STARscanner™, the only one of its kind in North Dakota. The scanner quickly collects accurate head shape data for the creation of cranial shaping helmets, custom headgear that guides skull growth. About two weeks later, the helmet is ready for the first fitting.
Unusual head shape often appears in the first months of life. Causes include the position of the baby during pregnancy, the birth process or the baby’s preferred sleeping position.
Why are helmets necessary?
Cranial shaping helmets are not experimental or cosmetic. They are medically necessary. Improper head development can have lifelong effects including:
- poor jaw function,
- middle ear infections,
- migraine headaches,
- vision problems and
- facial asymmetry.
“This is about as close to a ‘cure’ as we can get,” explains Steve Sattler, certified orthotist. Helmets are most effective during the first year when a baby’s head grows rapidly.
Photo Contest
Have you personally experienced cranial shaping helmets at Altru? From April 23-30, 2015, visit Altru Health System’s Facebook page to participate in the #1000Helmet photo contest. Here’s how it works:
- Post a photo of your child in his/her helmet to our Facebook wall
- Encourage friends and family to “vote” by liking the photo on our wall from April 23-30
- Winner will be announced: May 1, 2015
- Prize package to include: Safe Kids Grand Forks life jacket and bike helmet, sunscreen from Truyu Aesthetic Center, The Mayo Clinic Kids’ Cookbook and $25 Hugo’s gift card (valued at $100 total)
One entry per person. We reserve the right to remove any photos we feel are inappropriate. By posting your photo, you are also agreeing to let us share it as the winning photo.
If you’re wondering if your child needs a helmet, discuss your concerns with your child’s doctor. To learn more about cranial shaping helmets at Altru, call 701.780.2424.
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