When a baby is first born, their spine will have a convex curve in the shape of the letter C. This is called the primary curve and develops in utero. Therefore it would make sense that the ONLY “natural” position for a newborn is flexion. This is why if you lay an infant on their back (extension) their arms will flail and they think that they are falling (this is the Moro reflex).
In fact, at this stage, the baby will naturally tuck their legs into a frog leg position, thighs pulling up toward the chest, while laying on her belly or when you picked up. This fetal tuck allows your baby to maintain her primary curve alignment, reducing the pressure on the spine and hips. The fetal tuck is also the most calming position for your baby, helping them digest food better and regulate body temperature.
With all that being said, my next statement should make perfect sense – babies NEED tummy time. Not only because it is their natural position but because it is VITAL to properly develop the secondary and final curves of the spine (neck and lower back curves), a nicely rounded head, and flexible legs that move in and out of various sitting positions. Unfortunately, more and more frequently we see babies with a lack of time on their tummy and the OVERUSE of “baby containers” such as bouncy seats, swings, and (most frequently) car seat carriers that go from car to grocery store to restaurant.
While these containers can provide your baby with a safe place to lay while you tend to other day-to-day tasks, avoid overusing them and try to balance this time spent in them with the same amount of tummy time. The end result of overuse of these containers can be a flat skull, failure to develop a cervical and lumbar curve in the spine preventing them from getting on hands and knees to crawl, and tightened hips/legs.
It’s important to note that tummy time does not have to be on the floor – it can be on your chest, supported over your lap, or on a nursing pillow for younger babies. The flexion tummy time provides is very safe and natural.
If your baby struggles with and/or does not tolerate tummy time – a consultation and examination with a chiropractor trained and specializing in pediatric care can help correct any structural issues before they become a chronic problem.
