Protective Helmet Wear and Care Information

You/your child has been provided with a protective helmet by the Orthotics service.

Please follow the instructions given to you by the Orthotics team at your/your child’s clinical appointment, and use this information for further reference.

What is the function of an Orthotic Protective Helmet?

A protective orthotic helmet is generally supplied to offer protection to the skull from injury. This may either be intentional or unintentional. The helmet may be either made of fabric or hard plastic and will offer coverage to all areas of the head, to prevent injury where possible.

A patient may be prescribed a protective helmet if they present to clinic with one of the following:

•           Risk of falls due to poor balance or coordination

•           Seizure disorders

•           Skull abnormalities

•           Self-harming behaviour

•           Postoperative care

The prescribed helmet has been provided and customised (adapted) by your Orthotist for your/your child’s use only to treat your/their presenting symptoms.

How often should the device be worn?

It may take time to adjust to the fit and sensation of a protective helmet due to its enclosing nature and bulk. 

During your appointment, the Orthotist will have provided information regarding how the helmet should be worn. Generally it is advised to start wearing a protective helmet for approximately 30 minute periods, increasing this time by 30 minutes each day until the helmet can be worn daily with no concerns.

Once a protective helmet has been fitted and supplied, it is generally advised that this should be worn daily, only removing when resting in a protected environment or when the risk of injury is significantly reduced.

How should I care for the protective helmet?

The protective helmet should be worn next to the skin and fastened firmly, but comfortably, to prevent easy removal and unwanted movement while worn.

With any Orthotic device, hygiene is very important and by keeping your device clean, you will minimise the risk of skin irritation and any bacterial build up.

If a fabric device has been prescribed, this can be hand washed with mild detergent and left to dry naturally. Please do not tumble dry. If a plastic device has been prescribed, this can be wiped clean daily.

Please remember to monitor the skin for redness or inflammation daily. If you are concerned about any skin pressures or areas of tenderness, you should contact the Orthotics Service to arrange a review appointment.

How often will my prescription be reviewed?

Your protective helmet will not be reviewed routinely by the Orthotic department, however we advise that you contact to arrange a review appointment if the following applies:

•           One year after supply for general review.

•           You feel the protective helmet has worn and is no longer functioning effectively.

•           The symptoms have returned.

•           You are concerned about a change in condition.

How do I contact Orthotics Service?

Orthotics Service
Monday to Friday – 08:30 – 16:30
Telephone: 01429 522 471

Comments, concerns, compliments or complaints

Patient Experience Team (PET)

We are continually trying to improve the services we provide. We want to know what we’re doing well or if there’s anything which we can improve, that’s why the Patient Experience Team (PET) is here to help. Our Patient Experience Team is here to try to resolve your concerns as quickly as possible. The office is based on the ground floor at the University Hospital of North Tees if you wish to discuss concerns in person. If you would like to contact or request a copy of our PET leaflet, please contact:

Telephone: 01642 624719

Freephone: 0800 092 0084

Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 4:00pm

Email: [email protected]

Out of hours

Out of hours if you wish to speak to a senior member of Trust staff, please contact the hospital switchboard who will bleep the appropriate person.

Telephone: 01642 617617

Data protection and use of patient information

The Trust has developed Data Protection policies in accordance with Data Protection Legislation (UK General Data Protection Regulations and Data Protection Act 2018) and the Freedom of Information Act 2000. All of our staff respect these policies and confidentiality is adhered to at all times. If you require further information on how we process your information please see our Privacy Notices.

Telephone: 01642 383551

Email: [email protected]

Leaflet feedback

This leaflet has been produced in partnership with patients and carers. All patient leaflets are regularly reviewed, and any suggestions you have as to how it may be improved are extremely valuable. Please write to the Clinical Governance team, North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, University Hospital of North Tees, TS19 8PE or:

Email: [email protected]

Leaflet Reference: PIL1416
Date for Review: 10/05/2026