Sunday, March 22, 2009
Justin's getting a helmet
Justin had an appointment with the pediatric plastic surgeon on Thursday and was diagnosed with torticollis and severe plagiocephaly. She prescribed physical therapy to treat the torticollis and a cranial helmet to correct the plagiocephaly. We were sent for x-rays to rule out the possibility of craniosynostosis, which is a premature fusion of the sutures in the head. Craniosynostosis can cause head shape deformities similar to deformational plagiocephaly and may require surgery to remove the suture. We also met with the orthotist who fitted Justin for his helmet. Since each helmet is custom made it will take about 2 weeks to make, but once received, he'll need to wear it for 23 hours a day for 4-6 months. It's going to be a huge pain, but if left untreated, he may experience other medical issues later in life, and obviously we want what's best for him so we'll suck it up for a few months. Here's a picture of what the helmet looks like.
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Wow! I know you've told me all of this before, but I just had to research all the terms to make it stick in my head. I think I completely understand now. It's great that Justin has such a supportive mom and dad to help him through all this.
ReplyDeleteThe helmet is actually kinda cute. 4-6 months will fly by. Now - the other thing - that he's going to have PT for - that's the neck movement thing?
ReplyDeleteUgh.. I'm sorry to hear this, though you're right- it's for the best. I hope he takes to the helmet well!
ReplyDeleteHey Michigan! Like Lalla, I had to do some research to understand all those terms you threw out there Georgina. Overall, it reminds me of when your cousin Dennis had a problem with a jutting jaw because of genetic and developmental problems. He had to sleep each night with a dental appliance and very quickly his jaws realigned with no further problems. I know it is different with Justin because he has been so vulnerable. I am so glad you are able to get some good help with early diagnosis and treatment recommendations as that (along with your wonderful love and parenting) makes all the difference. Love to all. Aunt Charlotte
ReplyDeleteStill considering changing careers? With all this experience you'd have a head start. Reading the terms is one thing, pronouncing is another. I'll reiterate what others have said, Justin has fantastic parents!!!
ReplyDeletelike everyone else i could barely pronounce those words even just reading them in my head. LOL. those 4-6 months are going to fly by so fast. wow...justin is going to have some remarkable stories to tell his friends/family/future children when he gets older. he is definitely a soldier!! make sure you keep on the helmet as often as the doc suggests...as I am sure you will. the reason i mentioned that is cause i was born with both of my legs faced to the right...as a baby had to wear leg braces (i think similar to what Forest Gump wore. Well my parents were not strict about me wearing it and took them off before they doctors suggested...now im left with 1 foot facing the right all the time. Not sure if you ever noticed but next time you see me just pay attention to it. ok..well goodluck and sorry for the long post. :-)
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