Safely Exercising with Your Baby
By Debra Rodzinak
Parents today are increasingly getting outside with their children. Promoting healthy activities such as walking, hiking, or biking are fun outdoor activities that many parents participate in with their kids. However, new mothers should be careful not to injure themselves by exercising incorrectly with their baby. When not properly used, baby carriers, joggers, and pull behind trailers can cause pain and injury.
Bicycling
A very popular form of outdoor activity, the trailer that hitches to the back of a bike is a much safer option than a seat that sits on the back of the bike. Trailers offer added stability and a safer seating option for babies if an accident were to happen. Most trailers come with a harness that straps the child into the seat. Always have children wear helmets when participating in any activity.
Jogging
For those mothers who have to “get their run in” daily, a baby jogger is the best option. A regular stroller is not a wise choice for jogging. A baby jogger is specifically made with upright, adjustable handlebars and larger tires for added stability. Remember when using a baby jogger to remain on smooth surfaces for the protection of your baby.
Walking or Hiking
Carrying your little one on the hip is not only bad for the spine, but the mother will get tired very quickly. Using a backpack-type or front-side baby carrier is the best option. Since the spine of a baby is not fully developed, the head of the child needs to be completely secure. A front-side carrier is a better option than a backpack-style carrier for children under 1. Never run or jog with your infant. Their neck, spine, and brain cannot take the repeated blows.
Watch Your Form
When lifting your child in and out of carriers or joggers, be sure to use the proper lifting procedure. Do not bend at the waist as this will cause lower back strain. Squat down lifting the child to your chest, then stand straight up using the leg muscles. Injury can happen quickly and needlessly if proper form is not used.
Chiropractic Treatment
If you feel that you have injured your spine, joints or muscles with overexertion, come by The Joint for an all natural spinal adjustment. Our expert doctors at The Joint work with patients to develop a treatment plan that puts the patient in charge. It’s on your terms—not ours.
With no pesky insurance forms to fill out or appointment times to remember, finding relief for a sore back is just a walk-in away. Drop by The Joint today and begin your path to wellness.