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.
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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
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Head Shape: A Closer Look
CALCULATING THE CEPHALIC RATIO
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.
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.
LOCATIONSGlendale, CA Los Angeles, CA Los Angeles, CA - Koreatown Lakewood, CA - Long Beach Northridge, CA West Covina, CA Orange, CA Redlands, CA Temecula, CA San Diego, CA |
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