OrthoAmerica Cranial Care Program: Orthotic Modeling Concepts

Introduction

Module focuses on orthotic modeling concepts related to cranial care.
Key topics: physiological considerations, general considerations, and CRO-specific considerations.

Biomechanical Forces: Crucial for the development of muscles, ligaments, cartilage, and bone.
- Healthy cycles of stress and relaxation are needed.
- Infant skulls respond to changes in head position.
Pathological Response: Sustained supine positioning can lead to skull deformation.
- Affected by tissue pliability, development stage, and force duration.
- Forces include the weight of the head and gravity.
- Brain growth follows the path of least resistance, altering skull shape.

Factors: Time of onset, force duration, severity, diagnosis, etiology, growth potential, comorbidities, developmental level.
Modeling Forces: Different than other body parts.
- Magnitude relates to the weight of the head.
- Mode: Continuous pressure from sustained positioning.
- Frequency: Occurs during both day and night.

Deformation/Reformation Principles: Pliability of tissues, development stage, and force duration are key.
Modeling with Cranial Remolding Orthosis: Directs brain growth, impacts skull development and plasticity.
- Recommended 23-hour wearing schedule.

Function: Directs brain growth toward flattened areas.
- Optimal initiation: 4-6 months after birth.
- Program lasts 3-4 months; preferred to end by 12 months of age.
- Non-invasive, can prevent surgery.

Clinical Outcomes: Based on brain growth potential.
- Best results with early initiation and compliance with 23-hour wear.
Principles:
- Provides total contact in areas where growth is restrained.
- Allows space for desired growth.

Differ from Other Programs: Gradual realignment, not weight support.
Design: Accounts for asymmetry and disproportion.
- Frequent follow-ups to track changes.