Active Life is a leading provider of cranial remolding orthoses to treat positional Plagiocephaly, Brachycephaly, Scaphocephaly and other head shape deformities in infants 3-18 months of age.  We are proud to use the Orthomerica STARband as our primary helmet design, and also utilize Orthomerica's proprietary scanning software to create highly accurate helmet designs (no casting required).  Orthomerica has great resources for families currently receiving helmet care from Active Life, or those interested in learning more about how cranial remolding helmets are reshaping the lives of so many children.  To learn more about Active Life and STARband, please open the PDF files below.
Active Life STARband
File Size: 246 kb
File Type: pdf
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STARband Clinical Papers
File Size: 5031 kb
File Type: pdf
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Cranial Helmet FAQ

How does the helmet work?
The helmet will act as a mold. Not all areas of your child’s head will be making contact within the helmet.  This is normal and expected. The hope is that the flat spots on your child’s head will grow into the empty spaces.
​How long will my child have to be in treatment?
Usually 3-6 months, depending on your child’s age and their level of severity. Every child is different.
​Is there anything I can do to get rid of the smell?
Unfortunately no, but don’t feel self-conscious at all!  The sweat, the stench, and even the stains are completely normal! Remember to clean daily with rubbing alcohol.
Is there a specific kind of rubbing alcohol I need to clean with?
Any rubbing alcohol/isopropyl alcohol available at your local drug store will do.
What do I do when my child has some redness or is breaking out in a rash?
Redness/impressions indicate head growth and requires helmet modification. For any deep redness that does not fade within 1-2 hours or any signs of skin breakdown, remove the helmet and contact your child’s pediatrician.
Will the helmet hurt or affect my child’s brain growth?
No, the helmet is not meant to push onto your child’s head. This is why there is space for them to grow into the voids.

Wear and Care

  • For optimal treatment results, your child must wear the helmet for 23 hours/day, 7 days/week once the break-in period is complete.
  • Check for any signs of skin irritation anytime the helmet is removed.
  • Clean the helmet daily using only unscented rubbing alcohol. Let helmet air dry before replacing on the child’s head.
  • Remove the helmet if your child has a fever. Resume treatment ASAP.
  • Hair length must remain the same throughout treatment to provide an optimal fit.
  • Shampoo your baby’s head daily. Replace helmet only after both your baby’s head and the helmet are completely dry.
  • Only reapply the helmet after lotions/creams are fully absorbed into the skin.
  • Discontinuation of treatment is strictly between you and your child’s pediatrician.

Head Shape: A Closer Look

​CALCULATING THE CEPHALIC RATIO
Sex
Age
-2 SD
-1 SD
Mean
+1 SD
+2 SD
Male
16 Days to 6 Months
63.7
68.7
73.7
78.7
83.7
Male
6 to 12 Months
64.8
71.4
78.0
84.6
91.2
Female
16 Days to 6 Months
63.9
68.6
73.3
78.0
82.7
Female
6 to 12 Months
69.5
74.0
78.5
83.0
87.5
? > Mean = MILD
 ? > +1 SD = MODERATE
 ? > +2 SD = SEVERE

Break-In Schedule

DAY 1
Alternate 1 Hour On / 1 Hour Off

DAY 2
Alternate 2 Hours On / 1 Hour Off

DAY 3 *
Alternate 4 Hours On / 1 Hour Off

DAY 4 *
Alternate 8 Hours On / 1 Hour Off

DAY 5 *
Alternate 23 Hours On / 1 Hour Off

*Includes your child’s normal naptime/bedtime hours.

Helmet Cleaning Guidelines

​NOTE: Use ONLY unscented rubbing alcohol from your local drug store.  Other cleaning solutions/products risk leaving residue that can seep inside the foam and potentially cause irritation to your child’s skin.
Apply the rubbing alcohol to a clean un-dyed washcloth or a clean soft-bristled toothbrush. 
Vigorously rub/scrub the inside of the helmet.
Set the helmet upside down to dry. ​
Make sure the helmet and your child’s head are completely dry before replacing onto your baby's head.