Baby carriers are popular for active parents who want their hands free while doing activities such as walking or hiking. However, understand that backpack-style carriers do pose a risk for your baby since you are not able to watch to ensure that the infant’s head is properly supported. Since infants’ cervical spines are not fully developed, it is important that their heads are well-supported and do not bounce around in a carrier, according to the American Chiropractic Association’s Council on Occupational Health. To avoid that risk, use a front-style carrier so you are able to monitor the stability of your infant.

The following tips will also help you use a carrier safely:

• Make sure that you are fit enough to handle the extra weight of the carrier and the baby; carrying them both decreases your stability on your feet.
• Beginning walkers or hikers should not use a carrier with their baby to avoid putting themselves and the baby in danger.
• Carriers with wider straps for the carrier’s shoulders and waist will help distribute the extra weight evenly. Shoulder straps should fit comfortable over the center of your collarbone.
• Safe carriers will include a harness to keep your baby safe and secure.
• After placing your child in the carrier, ensure that there is not bunching pressing against the infant’s body. Uneven pressure like this can cause pain to young infants.

Chiropractic Care Can Help

The activities we engage in during the summer can cause soreness or pain. If you feel discomfort after performing any of these activities, call your doctor of chiropractic. He/she is licensed and trained to help patients of all ages, and is able to offer advice regarding you and your children’s health.

Source: American Chiropractic Association