A Parent‑Friendly Guide to Cranial Remolding Helmets

At Union Orthotics & Prosthetics Company, we know that learning your baby may need a cranial remolding helmet can feel overwhelming. You’re not alone—and you’re in the right place. Our team has been helping families through this process for close to 20 years, and we’re proud to be Western Pennsylvania’s and Pittsburgh’s most experienced provider of infant cranial remolding helmet care.

We use the most advanced technology available, including Orthomerica’s STARscanner and Starband FDA‑approved products, to make your baby’s treatment as gentle, safe, and effective as possible.

But most importantly, we love what we do. Supporting babies and their families is at the heart of our work, and our experienced Certified Orthotist Cranial Remolding Practitioners are here to guide you every step of the way.

What is a Cranial Remolding Helmet?

A cranial remolding helmet is a soft, lightweight, custom‑made orthotic helmet that helps gently correct a baby’s head shape.

It’s used to treat conditions such as:

  • Plagiocephaly (flat spot on one side)
  • Brachycephaly (wider, flatter head shape)
  • Scaphocephaly (long, narrow head shape)

Treatment is most effective for babies between 3 and 18 months, when their skulls are growing quickly.

The helmet doesn’t squeeze or push—it simply guides your baby’s natural growth into the areas that need it most. Over time, this helps create a more symmetrical head shape.

How Does a Cranial Remolding Helmet Work?

We design every helmet using a quick, safe 3D scan of your baby’s head—no X‑rays, no discomfort.

Here’s what happens next:

  • The helmet is created with extra space where your baby’s head needs to grow.
  • It gently supports the more prominent areas so they don’t grow as quickly.
  • As your baby’s head grows, it naturally fills in the flatter areas, creating a balanced shape.

Most babies adjust to the helmet quickly, and many barely notice they’re wearing it.

What Parents Usually Ask Us

  • Does every baby evaluated need a helmet?
    No. In fact, 1 out of 4 babies we evaluate do not require one. If that’s the case for your child, we’ll guide you on repositioning and other next steps.
  • How long will my baby wear the helmet?
    Most babies wear it for about 4 months, depending on age and severity.
  • How long does it take to get the helmet?
    Once insurance approves it, your baby’s custom helmet is usually ready in under two weeks.
  • Will insurance cover it?
    Most of the time, yes—over 97% of our patients get insurance approval.
  • Does it work?
    Absolutely! More than 98% of our little helmet heroes meet their goals with just one cranial remolding helmet.

Celebrate Success! Check out our Cranial Remolding Helmet Graduate Videos below!



Submit a Helmet Graduate Photo!

Parents, if you have a Union Orthotics & Prosthetics Co. cranial remolding helmet grad photo that you would like to share, you can easily upload your photos HERE. We will feature your little helmet hero in our upcoming graduate videos and social media channels!


Why Families Trust Us

  • Western PA’s most experienced cranial care team
  • Over 1,000 babies treated every year
  • Advanced, baby-friendly scanning technology
  • A team that truly cares about your family’s experience
  • Clear communication, warm support, and guidance throughout the journey

About Union O & P
Union Orthotics & Prosthetics Co. is a family-owned and operated company with over 100 years of service in Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania. We have always been dedicated to providing the highest quality of patient care with a professional and compassionate approach. Our services and techniques are continuously being upgraded to achieve the highest standard of excellence.

Locations
Union Orthotics & Prosthetics Co. and De La Torre Orthotics & Prosthetics Co. now offer 19 locations throughout Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania. Services may vary by location.