If you have expressed concerns to your pediatrician about your child's head shape, and s/he agrees that it's time to take the next step, you will probably be referred to a specialist.  You will likely see one (or two) of any one of the following professionals:

1. Neurosurgeon

2. Neurologist

3. Craniofacial Plastic Surgeon

This may sound very scary, as no one likes the idea of taking their own child to a SURGEON, but it's really quite painless, and with the right questions in hand, you will feel confident at your appointment.  It is important to ask any questions that concern you.  WRITE DOWN the questions you want to ask, and take a pen (or a mini tape recorder) with you so you can write down the answers given.

Here are some suggested questions for you doctor and/or orthotist.  Please feel free to print this page...

1. Does my baby have Positional Plagiocephaly or Craniosynostosis?  How do you know?  Will there be any further testing?  Why?

2. Does my child have torticollis?  Will you refer us to a physical therapist who works with infants?

3. Do you have any experience with Cranial Orthosis?  If not, can you refer me to someone who does?

4. How long have you been treating babies with a this particular device?

5. Does this device work passively, or will it apply gentle pressure to the prominent areas of my child's head?  Tell me more.

6. What kind of correction can I expect, given the age of my child and severity of his/her condition?

7. What is the cost of the device you are familiar with?  Do you know if insurance will cover the cost?

8. How often will my child be seen for adjustments (to compensate for growth)?

9. How long do you expect my child to have to wear the helmet/band?  Will there be more than 1 helmet/band used?

10. Will measurements be taken before therapy begins?

11. How will progress be monitored?

12. Will there be a mold made of my child's head?  How long will the casting take?  Please explain the process and how we can minimize the stress on my child during this time.

13. Will a negative mold be available throughout treatment so that we can have a visual guide to refer to during therapy?

14. How long after the casting process can I expect to start treatment?

15. How will the helmet/band be adjusted?

16. How do I clean the helmet/band?

17. Who do I contact if I have questions while my child is in therapy?

Plagiocephaly.org