Can Carrying Children Lead to Long-term Shoulder or Back Pain?
Medically Reviewed By : Dr Chandana, MBBS, MS
Introduction
Yes, carrying children can lead to long-term shoulder or back pain, mainly if it is done incorrectly or frequently
Some of the factors include:
Unsuitable lifting
While lifting up an infant, one should carefully bend on the knees instead of applying pressure and bending over back; this contributes to severe back ache and shoulder strain.
So, a legitimate lifting technique is necessary.
Poor Posture
Carrying an infant on your shoulder or arms for a longer period of time can cause muscle spasms and strain on your shoulder, cervical pain, lower back ache, and sometimes tingling of the arms.
Repetitive stress
Carrying and lifting the infant repeatedly puts more stress on the muscle, causing injuries over time.
Weight load
As the time passes, the infant grows usually; an increase in weight may put more stress, strain, discomfort, and pressure on your spine, shoulder, hips, and calf muscles, leading to severe pain and inflammation of the carrier.
Fatigue
Prolonged carrying of children may cause weakening of muscle, exhaustion, and tiredness of the carrier.
Prevention tips
- Use a carrier: A baby carrier can help to disperse the weight evenly, so that it will be easy for the provider.
- Maintaining good posture: Proper straight alignment of the knees, hips, and spine, shoulder in position.
- Use a backpack: Take good, soft, well-padded straps that are comfortable and distribute the weight evenly.
- Limit the load: Don't carry more than 10-15% of your own body weight in the back pack.
- Exercise: Try to strengthen your core muscles, do some exercise, and stretch regularly to relieve tension and maintain good posture. If still pain persists, consult a healthcare provider.
