Cranial Program Referral Guide
Features
A Unique, Multi-layer Foam System
Allows for easy adjustment as the infant grows
A Unique, Optional Hinged Opening
That allows easy internal modification for clinicians and easy operation by parents
Optional Top Opening Design
Top opening shape can help with vaulting and symmetrics superiorally
Above average patient results
On average, an infant with plagiocephaly requires just 10-14 weeks in the Boston Band® compared to the 4-6 months advertised by other devices
See the Treatment Timeline
Additional Information
The Boston Band® is a lightweight foam and plastic helmet that treats a number of types of cranial asymmetry, including positional plagiocephaly by providing a pathway for the infant’s head to grow into a more symmetrical shape.
Indications
- For infants 4 months -18 months of age
- Plagiocephaly
- Brachycephaly
- Asymmetrical
- Brachycephaly
- Scaphocephaly
- Craniosynostosis
Research Articles
Learn more on the effectiveness of cranial remolding.
- Ryall JJ, Xue Y, Turner KD, Nguyen PD, Greives MR. Assessing the quality of life in infants with deformational plagiocephaly. J Craniomaxillofac Surg. 2021 Jan;49(1):29-33. doi: 10.1016/j.jcms.2020.11.005. Epub 2020 Nov 17. PMID: 33239212.
- Graham T, Wang J, Calderon FA, Moses V, Hallac RR. Two-Dimensional and Three-Dimensional Changes in Deformational Head Shapes During Repositioning Therapy and Cranial Remolding Treatment. J Clin Med. 2024 Dec 17;13(24):7689. doi: 10.3390/jcm13247689. PMID: 39768612; PMCID: PMC11679540.
- Phelan AL, Gu G, McCarthy M, Barton BA, McIntyre JK, Lalikos JF. Rethinking Farkas: Updating Cephalic Index Norms in a Large, Diverse Population. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2021 Jun 1;147(6):1369-1376. doi: 10.1097/PRS.0000000000007957. PMID: 33973960.
- Wallace ER, Ola C, Leroux BG, Speltz ML, Collett BR. Prediction of school-age IQ, academic achievement, and motor skills in children with positional plagiocephaly. Paediatr Child Health. 2020 Apr 17;26(3):e132-e137. doi: 10.1093/pch/pxaa012. PMID: 33936342; PMCID: PMC8077205.
- Corte, A.D., Rohde, M.A. Use of orthotic helmets in children with positional plagiocephaly and brachycephaly: a systematic review. Childs Nerv Syst 41, 163 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00381-025-06826-0
- Hauc SC, Long AS, Rivera JC, Ihnat J, Littlefield TR, Shah HP, Pondugula N, Junn AH, Almeida MN, Alper D, Persing J, Alperovich M. Predictive Factors of Outcomes in Helmet Therapy for Deformational Plagiocephaly and Brachycephaly. J Craniofac Surg. 2023 Jan-Feb 01;34(1):231-234. doi: 10.1097/SCS.0000000000009048. Epub 2022 Oct 10. PMID: 36210494.
Frequently Asked Questions
For Parents
If my baby has been diagnosed with plagiocephaly, are there any concerns if we don’t move forward with treatment?
There is no clear evidence that head shape asymmetry directly affects development, although there are studies that have shown links between head shape asymmetry and developmental delays. More practical concerns are how well helmets and hats will fit; this is usually an issue for heads with more substantial asymmetries.
Can we schedule an appointment for a helmet evaluation directly with OP Specialty Bracing, or does our pediatrician need to refer us?
You are able to schedule an evaluation without a prescription or referral from your pediatrician or specialist. We would, however, need a prescription if you choose to move forward with cranial remolding treatment. This prescription typically comes from the pediatrician. If you would like to schedule an evaluation with us, find the OP Specialty Bracing clinics near you and use the Request An Appointment form or call the clinic directly.
How much does the Boston Band® weigh? Will it be heavy for my baby?
The average weight of the Boston Band® is 9 ounces, so it is not a substantial amount of weight that would interfere with head control development. Sample Boston Bands are available for reference in the clinics.
For Providers
How are different head shapes classified?
We use the CHOA Plagiocephaly and Hutchison’s Brachycephaly Severity Scales to assess the type and severity of cranial asymmetry and determine whether helmet treatment is appropriate. The most common head shape variations we see include Plagiocephaly, Brachycephaly, Scaphocephaly, and Asymmetric Brachycephaly.
What family education and follow-up support do you provide?
We make sure every family feels confident and supported from day one. Our clinicians review wear schedules, skin checks, device cleaning, donning and doffing, and troubleshooting tips, reinforcing best practices as treatment progresses.
Families also have ongoing access to our Family Resource Hub, which includes how-to videos, care guides, and peer support connections—making it easy for providers to share trusted, educational resources that help families thrive throughout their child’s treatment journey.
