Musculoskeletal problems in babies

25 Dec Musculoskeletal problems in babies

Babies begin their life developing in an environment with quite cramped quarters. The position of a baby whilst in the cramped quarters of the uterus, as well as during delivery or the postures they adopt as newborns can all contribute to the development of musculoskeletal (muscles and bones) problemsIf left unchecked, these problems can lead to pain or limited mobility.

The development of musculoskeletal problems may also result from factors other than posture, such as genetic, congenital or chromosomal abnormalities. Some common problems related to the musculoskeletal system include:

Flat Head Syndrome aka Plagiocephaly

A new born baby has a very soft and malleable skull, particularly if they were born prematurely or were part of a multiple birth. This softness and malleability present the risk of the head shape being changed due to the pressure of their head resting on a surface for extended periods. Generally, this will be the cot mattress – resulting in the back of the baby’s head becoming flat.

Structural Clubfoot/Feet aka Congenital Talipes Equinovarus (CTEV)

Structural clubfoot is a treatable deformity whereby the foot (or feet) is twisted inward and downward at birth. This twisting is a result of the bones, joints and muscles of the foot (or feet) and lower leg having formed incorrectly in utero. Clubfoot occurs more commonly in boys than girls. Foot posture can be normalized through the use of casts, stretches and exercises – applied from birth.

Wryneck aka Torticollis

This condition is the result of a tight sternocleidomastoid muscle – a muscle that connects to the sternum (sterno-), clavical (cleido-) and the mastoid process (mastoid), located behind the ear. The tightening of this muscle pulls the head sideways and downward toward the shoulder, while also bringing the head forward to the chest. This tightness may have been caused by the baby’s position in the uterus or as a result of damage caused to the muscle during delivery.

Wryneck will restrict your baby’s ability to turn their head, which also restricts their ability to interact with the world around them. This lack of interaction can result in delayed or asymmetrical development.

Paediatric Physiotherapy plays an important role in the treatment and prevention of musculoskeletal problems in a developing baby. At Western Paediatric Physiotherapy, our specialist physiotherapists have a thorough understanding of how differently babies can develop. We will conduct a comprehensive examination of your child and identify the most beneficial course of action to achieve to best outcomes. Contact our clinic at Hoppers Crossing today on (03) 8001 2042 for an appointment, and put your mind at ease.