Lifting & Holding your baby without Back Pain
If you're caring for a new baby, it can be challenging on your shoulders, your neck, and your lower back. Luckily, there are a few changes you can make to how you carry, lift, and feed your baby that can go a long way.
If you're caring for a new baby, it can be challenging on your shoulders, your neck, and your lower back. Luckily, there are a few changes you can make to how you carry, lift, and feed your baby that can go a long way. I'm Dr. Robin Armstrong, a chiropractor at Willowbrook Chiropractic in Langley.
Today, I'll share some ergonomic tips for interacting with your new baby. This is my baby here; surprisingly, my 13-year-old did not want to volunteer for this video. Let's talk about feeding first. Nursing pillows are great for bottle-feeding or breastfeeding, but when the baby's little, you might need more than one pillow.
You might have the nursing pillow and even need to prop it up with another pillow so that you're not rounding, leaning forward, or having to excessively support the baby. The next consideration is when you are carrying the baby. We often put them on one shoulder, with one arm for support.
If possible, try holding them right in the middle, so you can support them with one arm, or consider using baby carriers. I like the backpack-style carriers with two shoulder straps and ideally, a waist strap to distribute the force, relieving your shoulders. It can be a front or back-carrying one, depending on the baby's size.
Even if you're using a sling or wrap-type carrier, try placing it in the middle of your body to distribute the weight evenly, keeping both hands free and reducing strain on your neck and back. Another thing to consider is getting the baby in and out of the crib. If the baby is in the bassinet, hinge at your hips, bring the baby close and then lift. When reaching over the crib, still hinge at the hips, bring the baby as close as possible, and then lift.
Now, let's talk about the car seat. Ideally, put the car seat in first, and then place the baby. However, if that's not possible, be mindful not to combine movements. Turn, then bend, and pivot to avoid awkward positions. Separate the movements because the car seat itself is heavy, and adding the baby makes it even more challenging. This is where injuries can occur, so do your best.
Taking care of a young person can be physically and mentally demanding, but it's worth it. If you have any questions, feel free to ask me, Dr. Robin Armstrong, or Dr. Jody Freedman. We regularly share content on YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook under Willowbrook Chiropractic, and you can book online at http://willowbrook.janeapp.com/ .
