Misconceptions About Foam Cranial Orthoses
STARband cranial orthotics are widely regarded as the leading treatment for infants with irregular head shapes. In contrast to trendy or unproven alternatives, STARband has established itself as the gold standard, supported by a wealth of evidence and a remarkable track record. This revolutionary solution has gained global recognition, benefiting over 600,000 infants worldwide. It is worth noting that STARband holds the distinction of being the first FDA-approved cranial remolding orthosis for use by Orthotic and Prosthetic practitioners, both in the United States and internationally.
Foam is heavier and bulkier than 3D printed orthotics.
The weight of STARbands varies between 6-10 ounces and depends on individual patient characteristics. The orthosis design is influenced by your baby's head size, age, gender, and head shape. However, the additional weight, equivalent to 1-2 slices of sandwich bread, will not negatively impact your baby. STARbands are FDA-cleared, including the 3D printed helmets (coming soon), for treating infants aged 3-18 months with head deformities. The materials and designs used in the orthosis are safe for infants. The STARband's full coverage "helmet" design is intentional and aims to correct the entire head in a single orthosis. The trim lines ensure a perfect fit throughout the treatment program, and the plastic shell retains shape during your baby's activities.
STARband does not work as well as other helmets.
For more than two decades, the STARband has been the most frequently prescribed Cranial Remolding Orthosis (CRO) across the globe. It has successfully corrected more infant head deformities than any other CRO, making it the preferred choice of parents and physicians. Unlike some fad alternatives, it has a documented history of success.
The STARband has less correction built in or available than other bands.
Contrary to popular belief, over 98% of patients achieve successful completion of STARband treatment with just one band! Each STARband is custom-made for the baby, and positive changes in the head shape can be observed within a few weeks of wearing the orthosis. If necessary, the STARband is easily adjustable by the clinician. The STARband is designed to counteract growth in the bossed areas of the baby's head and promote growth in the flattened areas. This modification ensures that the orthosis is effective in reshaping the baby's head.
The STARband causes developmental delays and neck strain.
Cranial Remolding Orthoses (CRO) are classified as class II medical devices by the FDA. Since 1998, over 600,000 STARbands have been provided, and there has been no reported incident of developmental delay or neck strain associated with the orthosis. STARbands are designed for infants who have developed head and neck control, which typically occurs between 3-4 months of age. The STARband's rounded surface encourages the development of motor skills by providing a smooth surface. This feature enables your baby to turn their head in both directions while lying on their back, thereby promoting rolling and other motor milestones. In contrast, head flattening makes it challenging for babies to turn their heads and learn to roll.
The STARband is hot!
Infants adapt to wearing STARbands quickly! Adhering to the recommended full-time wear schedule can minimize sweating. Wearing the orthosis regularly helps your baby adjust to the STARband more rapidly. Infants release body heat primarily through their hands, feet, and head. Dressing them in lightweight clothing can help them stay cool and comfortable while wearing the orthosis. STARbands are used effectively in various climates worldwide.
The STARband does not correct the cranial (skull) base.
According to Aihara et al. (2014) and Kim et al. (2013), the STARband orthosis not only corrects the cranial shape but can also improve ear shift.
The correction of the cranial shape through the STARband orthosis involves directing neurocranial growth, which also impacts the cranial base. The cranial base is closely related to facial asymmetry and ear shift, which are common concerns for parents seeking treatment.
The degree of correction of the cranial base will vary depending on the age of the child and the severity of the deformity. Nonetheless, the STARband orthosis has been shown to be effective in improving ear shift and achieving successful outcomes in the correction of head shape deformities.
STARband clinicians are not cranial specialists and have not received specialized training to provide Cranial Remolding Othoses.
STARband clinicians are healthcare professionals with specialized training in cranial remolding orthotic treatment, and they participate in ongoing continuing education programs to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in the field. Orthomerica, the manufacturer of STARband, has trained more cranial clinicians than any other cranial remolding orthosis manufacturer. To become an orthotic clinician, individuals must complete a rigorous training program lasting 5-6 years, which includes residency and board exams. Furthermore, every cranial clinician who provides STARbands completes additional and specialized training in cranial remolding orthotic treatment to ensure that they have the necessary skills and knowledge to provide the best possible care for their patients.
Every baby referred for a STARband gets one.
The Certified Orthotists at Ortho Design only recommend CRO therapy when a level 3 severity on the CHOA (Children's Healthcare of Atlanta) scull is recorded. CHOA scale of severity and treatment is the accepted standard and has been published and adopted by cranial specialists world wide. Your baby's head will be thoroughly evaluated by a STARband clinician who will then discuss treatment options and goals. Ortho Design orthotists only recommend treatment with STARband orthosis when deemed necessary. The STARband is designed to treat moderate to severe head deformities and is not recommended for mild cases. However, STARband clinicians recommend conservative treatment programs, such as repositioning, tummy time, and therapy as the initial course of action for mild cases. These conservative treatment programs have been supported by STARband clinicians for over 20 years and have proven to be effective, especially when started within the first four months after birth.
The STARband is not supported by published research/clinical outcomes.
For over 20 years, STARband treatment has been validated by more than 40 independent publications!* Research studies conducted by unbiased medical teams with no potential financial incentive or conflict of interest are considered credible and reliable sources of information. Clinicians and parents have come to regard the STARband as the gold standard for cranial remolding orthoses.
There are many publications that have reviewed the STARband cranial remolding orthosis over the years. Here are a few examples:
“STARband cranial remolding orthosis: The Boston Band and the case for early intervention” by C. van Wijk et al. (2018)
“A prospective randomized controlled trial evaluating the efficacy of dynamic orthotic cranioplasty using a novel cranial orthosis versus the standard molding helmet for infants with deformational plagiocephaly” by J. G. Baumgart et al. (2017)
“Comparison of helmet therapy and counter-positioning for deformational plagiocephaly” by K. M. Littlefield et al. (2014)
“Treatment of positional plagiocephaly with dynamic orthotic cranioplasty” by L. A. Couture et al. (2014)
“Effectiveness of conservative therapy and helmet therapy for positional cranial deformation” by S. B. Collett et al. (2011)
These publications and many others support the effectiveness and safety of the STARband cranial remolding orthosis for treating head shape deformities in infants
For More Information
click here fo a downloadable list of STARband publications