18. Is a Helmet Really Necessary? A Pediatric PT and Orthotist Break Down Flat Spots, Torticollis & Treatment Options
18. Is a Helmet Really Necessary? A Pediatric PT and Orthotist Break Down Flat Spots, Torticollis & Treatment Options  
Podcast: More than Milestones
Published On: Tue Dec 23 2025
Description: In this episode of More than Milestones, I sit down with Becki Westover, a certified orthotist with Bloom Kids who has over 20 years of experience working with infants and families. Becki explains what a certified orthotist does and why helmet therapy can feel confusing or controversial for parents.We talk through common concerns about infant helmets, including weight, size, comfort, and whether helmets interfere with development. Becki clears up misconceptions by explaining how helmets are designed, what they’re made of, and how they support natural head growth rather than forcing change.The conversation also covers the most common types of head flattening, why cases seem to be on the rise, the impact of the Back to Sleep campaign on tummy time, and the connection between torticollis, IVF pregnancies, and head shape differences. Becki shares when helmet therapy is most effective, why some families are referred to neurosurgery first, and how parents can approach these referrals with more confidence and less fear.Follow Becki on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beckiatbloom/Visit Becki’s Website: www.bloomkidsorthotics.comLinks & Resources💻 Website & Blog: https://www.milestonesandmotherhood.com/📱Follow KC for daily motor milestone tips & parenting support: https://www.instagram.com/milestones.and.motherhood/🎧 Follow podcast updates & new episode drops: https://www.instagram.com/more.than.milestones/🆓 Get my free tummy time training: Mastering Milestones with Confidencehttps://www.milestonesandmotherhood.com/freetraining📬 Join the email list for milestone tips + podcast updateshttps://idyllic-hat-942.myflodesk.com/fwefz61097🛒 Shop KC’s favorite mom & baby finds: https://links.milestonesandmotherhood.com/amazon/amazonstorefrontmm🤝 Sponsor or guest inquiries?Contact us at podcast@milestonesandmotherhood.comGo deeper with KC on SubstackMore Than Milestones: Unfiltered is my subscription channel where I release 2 exclusive bonus episodes every month. Even more raw, unfiltered motherhood chats you won’t hear anywhere else.https://substack.com/@morethanmilestonesLove what you’re hearing? Follow, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow mom or caregiver who needs a little less pressure and a little more support. 🤍This episode was brought to you by the Pivot Ball Change Network.