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View our privacy policyLexie’s journey: A family’s determination to find the right orthotic treatment
Lexie’s parents first noticed a flat spot developing on one side of her head when she was just three weeks old. She hadn’t been born with it; it appeared quite suddenly. As a C-section baby, Lexie wasn’t sleeping on one side, which puzzled her parents and raised their concerns.
Their GP initially advised them to wait a few more weeks, suggesting Lexie’s head shape might naturally correct itself since there were no severe signs of plagiocephaly. A visit to a physiotherapist followed, but she was quickly discharged as there were no symptoms the therapist could actively treat.
After three to four weeks with no noticeable change, Lexie’s parents returned to the GP, who referred them to a local NHS paediatrician. By this time, Lexie was almost four months old, and her parents were increasingly anxious that the window for non-invasive treatment might be closing. They feared surgery could be the only remaining option. The paediatrician arranged a CT scan to rule out any underlying conditions.
Thankfully, the scan results came back clear. However, the paediatrician explained there was little more the NHS could offer and recommended seeking private orthotic treatment, specifically helmet therapy. This marked a turning point for the family.
Lexie’s parents began researching private clinics but were initially hesitant due to the cost. They explored charity funding, but found that the application criteria were too much, and the fees were too high. Eventually, they turned to GoFundMe, launching a campaign that they shared with family, friends and Facebook. The platform offered a simpler process and lower fees, making it a more practical solution for their situation.
During their research into private providers, they were drawn to the London Orthotic Consultancy. LOC’s family-focused approach, excellent reviews, and prompt availability stood out. Location wasn’t an issue; they were determined to begin treatment, especially as Lexie was now around seven to eight months old and progress had been slow.
At their first appointment with Jo Drake, LOC’s Head of plagiocephaly and senior orthotist, he family immediately felt reassured.
“Jo was incredibly thorough. She never pushed the treatment on us. She gave us time to think it over, but after seven months with little change and things seeming to worsen, we knew we wanted to start right away.”
Daniel
Lexie adjusted quickly to her helmet, which she began wearing in October. “She actually wore the helmet more than she didn’t,” Daniel shares. “She was so young when she started, and after 16 months, it felt odd to see her without it. It had just become normal for her.”
Because Lexie had a more severe case of plagiocephaly, her parents understood that results might take longer than average. “We weren’t worried about how long it would take,” says Daniel. “We just wanted to see progress, even if it took a year or more. Doing nothing wasn’t an option.”
And progress did come. Lexie’s cranial vault asymmetry reduced from 24mm to 8mm. This brought her within the moderate head shape range, and her parents felt reassured that they had made the right decision.
Over time, the family began noticing real improvements in Lexie’s head shape. As the check-up appointments became less frequent, it was a financial and emotional relief. “We live outside of London and both work, so fewer appointments meant less travel, less stress, and it was reassuring to see that the helmet was working.”
Daniel concludes on how challenging it was at times, especially dealing with curious or judgemental stares from strangers. “My wife never felt self-conscious, but I did. People would ask questions or make assumptions. But we were always happy to explain and educate others about the treatment. Many even thought it was covered by the NHS, which it isn’t.”
Looking back, Daniel feels immense relief. “We were at a point where it felt like nothing was going to work. But then we started seeing changes soon after the first few appointments. That gave us so much hope.”
If you’re concerned about your baby’s head shape, we’re here to help. You can complete our free flat head photo assessment form or contact us to book a free consultation with one of our experienced orthotists.
Backed by clinical research, LOCband Lite is a non-invasive cranial remoulding helmet designed to support a more balanced head shape over time. Results vary depending on age, severity and daily wear time.
“From the very start, everyone at the London Orthotic Consultancy was professional and friendly. Every step of the way was well-explained and the fitting was quick. It only took Magnus one day to get used to the band, and after that, he wasn’t bothered by it at all. And, most importantly, it worked!”
Maria, Magnus’s mother – Plagiocephaly patient
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