Baby Lateral Flexion Stretch
Paediatric Chiropractic Homecare Edition
Disclaimer: this advice is general only, for educational purposes; and isn't specific to you and your child's needs. It's intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns please check in with us (if you’re a client) or with your local health practitioner if you’re not.
Also note that Sandy is using a doll and over exaggerating the movement in order for you to see what she’s doing. Please be gentle with your baby.
Torticollis is a contracture of the SCM muscle (Sternocleidomastoid) and causes a head tilt one direction anda. rotation to the opposite side.
Baby musculoskeletal imabalcnes can cause a myriad of symptoms and signs including feeding difficulty, breast preference, head or neck rotation preference. If left unresovled it can possibly lead to positional plagiocephaly.
A few home care tips that might help to compliment your gently chiropractic adjustments include a held lateral flexion stretch
SIDELYING NECK STRETCH
Firmly hold your baby in a tiger-in-the-tree type hold. ie. On a diagonal position across your arm, facing outwards.
Hold the down-side shoulder (left in this case) down with your underneath arm ~ to maintain a slight bit of traction
Use your other hand to gently hold over baby’s left ear;
Gently bring their right ear toward their right shoulder - giving a side bend stretch!
Remember to do both sides.
Most importantly…
Be gentle and listen to your baby’s cues. If you’re ever unsure, consult a paediatric chiro or osteo or your child’s healthcare provider for guidance.
If you are a client of ours and need some clarification or help simply SMS us on 0491 064 117. Or ask us next time you’re in.
If you’re not a client but you’ve stumbled across this page we highly recommend booking in with your local paediatric chiropractor for an assessment before beginning these exercises.
Book online with us here
