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As parents our lives revolve around making sure our babies are safe and secure…and using a carrier can help. But not all baby carriers are created equal, and some can actually hinder your child’s development.
One such condition that can occur when using the wrong carrier (or using the right carrier incorrectly) is hip dysplasia, so we thought we’d give you some valuable information about the condition, some tips on choosing the right type of carrier, and ways to ensure baby is positioned correctly to keep your little love safe and well.
Hip dysplasia is a disorder of the hip joint that causes the head of the thigh bone to dislocate from the hip socket, either partially or completely. It can also cause joint instability, meaning the head of the thigh bone slips into and out of the socket.
Most babies are not born with hip dysplasia unless the disorder runs in their family. Breech babies are at a greater risk of experiencing hip dysplasia, but the condition affects only about 1% of newborns.
If not properly treated, hip dysplasia can lead to limping, pain, and diminished mobility.
Yes. According to orthopedists, carrying your baby in an ergonomic carrier helps strengthen baby’s legs muscles and bones.
But it is important to use a carrier that encourages your child to “cling” to the side of their mama or papa, with their legs in the proper position. The ideal carrier should allow your child to sit facing you, with their legs spread around you and in an “M”, or froggy, position with knees bent and resting higher than their bottom.
When baby is properly placed, your movements encourage your child to contract their thigh muscles around you. This not only strengthens leg muscles, but it also ensures the head of the thigh bone is properly positioned in the socket and free from strain.
Carriers that do not support “M” positioning or allow baby to face away from you with their legs dangling do not support healthy joint development.
There’s a reason we exclusively make ring slings. We believe they are the best and easiest way to ensure your baby sits in the “M” position which, in turn, supports the hips and thighs while encouraging their spine to form the “C” shaped curve that keeps baby comfy and safe.
To help achieve this deep-seated carry in your Nalakai Sling, make sure the bottom rail of the sling is up and under baby’s bottom and reaching from the back of both knees. You’ll also want to have some fabric from the bottom rail up and between both baby and your body, forming a nice deep pocket seat which your baby will ‘”sit” into naturally with their hips in the froggy position.
If you are a visual learner, click here to visit the “How To” page on our website. There, we have tons of instructional videos to help you get baby properly placed in your sling.
There are so many reasons why carrying is beneficial for your baby. Not only does it allow you to bond more closely, but it also helps ensure healthy physical development. We’d say that’s a win/win in anyone’s book.
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References
International Hip Dysplasia Institute
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