Gentle support for baby head shape flattening—guided by 3D scanning and custom-made helmets
Noticing a flat area on your baby’s head can be stressful. The good news is that head shape flattening is common, and many babies improve with simple strategies and time. When flattening is moderate to severe, or isn’t improving, helmet therapy can help guide your baby’s natural growth toward a more even head shape.
At InMotion Orthotics, we use safe, non-contact 3D scanning to assess head shape and, when appropriate, fit custom cranial remoulding helmets—including lightweight 3D printed helmets and traditional polypropylene helmets—based on your baby’s needs and your preferences.
What is plagiocephaly?
Plagiocephaly is flattening on one side of the back of the head. From above, you may notice:
A flatter area on one side at the back
The forehead may look slightly more prominent on one side
The ears can appear slightly misaligned
Facial features may look a little uneven
You may also hear the term brachycephaly, which is flattening across the back of the head (more symmetrical), sometimes making the head look wider or shorter front-to-back.
Important: These head shape conditions are generally considered cosmetic and are not typically associated with problems in brain development—however families often want to improve symmetry and appearance.
Why do flat spots happen?
A baby’s skull is designed to be soft and flexible for growth—especially early on. Flattening can occur when a baby spends lots of time resting in the same position. Since safe sleep recommendations encourage babies to sleep on their backs, flat spots have become more common.
Sometimes a strong preference to look one way (often linked with neck tightness / torticollis) can contribute. In those cases, working with a physiotherapist may help alongside any orthotic plan.
When should we get an assessment?
Many babies improve with repositioning and tummy time strategies. But it’s worth booking an assessment if you notice:
Flattening that isn’t improving after 6–8 weeks of repositioning strategies
A flat spot that looks pronounced
A strong head-turn preference or suspected neck tightness
You’d like clear measurements and a plan you can feel confident about
Our approach at InMotion Orthotics
Step 1: 3D head shape scan & clinical assessment
We begin with a comprehensive head shape assessment using safe, non-contact 3D scanning technology. This allows us to accurately measure your baby’s head shape and understand the severity and pattern of flattening.
At your appointment, we will:
Listen to your concerns and review your baby’s history
Assess head shape, symmetry, and growth patterns
Explain the scan results in clear, easy-to-understand terms
Discuss whether monitoring, repositioning advice, or helmet therapy may be appropriate
Our aim is to give you clarity and confidence—whether or not helmet therapy is required.
Step 2: Custom 3D printed helmet design & manufacture
If helmet therapy is recommended, your baby’s 3D scan is used to design a custom cranial remoulding helmet, tailored precisely to their head shape and growth needs.
At InMotion Orthotics, we offer two different styles of custom 3D printed helmets, allowing us to select the most suitable option based on:
Your baby’s age and head shape pattern
Comfort, ventilation, and weight considerations
Clinical goals and expected growth
Both helmet styles are:
Lightweight and precisely fitted using 3D scan data
Designed to guide natural head growth, not apply pressure
Custom manufactured specifically for your baby
We’ll explain the differences between the two styles and help you choose the option that best suits your baby and your family.
Step 3: Helmet fitting, education & care instructions
Once your baby’s helmet is ready, we’ll book a dedicated fitting appointment to ensure the helmet is comfortable, secure, and working as intended.
During this appointment, we will:
Carefully fit the helmet and check contact and relief areas
Make any necessary initial adjustments
Explain the recommended wear schedule
Provide clear care and cleaning instructions
Talk you through what to expect during the first days of wear
We take the time to ensure you feel confident managing helmet therapy at home.
Step 4: Regular reviews & ongoing adjustments
As your baby grows, their head shape will naturally change. Regular review appointments are an essential part of helmet therapy to ensure progress stays on track.
At review visits, we:
Monitor head shape changes and overall progress
Adjust the helmet to accommodate growth and maintain effectiveness
Check skin condition and helmet tolerance
Address any concerns or questions you may have
Perform repeat 3D scans when appropriate to objectively track improvement
These ongoing reviews allow us to safely guide head growth while keeping your baby comfortable throughout the treatment process.