Weird Bike Helmet Question

[Pamela H in Texas]

My fs (maybe stbas) has a weird shaped head. He has plagio and brachiocephaly. We would like to get him a bike helmet that is custom fit so he can be safe riding a bike.

 

When I tried searching for custom made helmets, I got things like airbrushing and such.

 

Anyone have some idea how we can get him a helmet though his head is so far off? As it is now,we took the velcro'd in padding out of the one we have. That makes it where the helmet will get down over the widest part of his head. But then he doesn't have any padding AND there are loose spots and room to move.

 

I'm hoping I am making any sense at all.

 

Here is a picture of each issue. I couldn't find a picture of one kid with theirs as off as his (especially both ways):

 

[amo_mea_filiis.]

Maybe his neurologist would have an idea, or OT/PT (I'm just assuming these people are in the picture).

[Jean in Newcastle]

I know that there are cranial remolding helmet for brachycephaly. I don't know if one of those would be strong enough to also work as a bike helmet. I would talk to his pediatrician.

[amo_mea_filiis.]

Or you could go to a higher end bike shop with him and ask.

[Pamela H in Texas]

I wish he had the reshaping helmet when he was a baby. His mom had called to inquire, to set up an appointment, but then didn't follow through. And for some reason, neither did his first foster mom, his family (in kinship placements), etc. I don't understand, won't ever I guess.

 

Anyway, so we have been to craniofacial to see if anything could be done, but it's too late. They did two types of imaging to make sure he isn't having any medical issues, but that is it.

 

There is probably a bike shop somewhere in the next town over...

[celticmom]

My bet would be that going to the next larger size and adding in padding as needed to keep it from moving would be you best bet. Another option which will probably be more expensive but is designed to protect from greater impact would be a motorcycle helmet. I think there is a greater variation in sizes and the padding is much better.

[gingersmom]

I just have to tell you that you are a wonderful foster parent. Those kids are so lucky to have you and your family.

[unsinkable]

Why not call these people and see what they recommend for children with this problem who never had it fixed? I'm sure they have studied/encountered older kids with the problem before. Maybe they could suggest a bike helmet manufacturor.

 

They have a location in Austin.

 

cranialtech

[Julie Smith]

My bet would be that going to the next larger size and adding in padding as needed to keep it from moving would be you best bet. Another option which will probably be more expensive but is designed to protect from greater impact would be a motorcycle helmet. I think there is a greater variation in sizes and the padding is much better.

 

If you are going to do this, I recommend you get a BMX helmet. Those are the ones with a thing in the front.

 

My kids wear them since you don't have to worry as much to making sure they are on correctly. Also normal bike helmets sometimes state they should be replaced if they are dropped from a short distance.

[Julie Smith]

I just have to tell you that you are a wonderful foster parent. Those kids are so lucky to have you and your family.

 

:) I agree.

[Pamela H in Texas]

Thanks for the ideas y'all. I'm sure we'll find something that will work great. Just wanna keep that noggin intact. :)

 

Thanks for the complement also. However, ANY of y'all would do the same :)

[Tap]

Have you tried posting in any of the yahoo groups for his diagnosis? Maybe someone out there has already found a solution!