Swaddling may damage babies' hips, expert warns

Conclusion In summary, this is not new research into whether swaddling leads to hip dysplasia, which is what the media reporting may lead you to believe. Rather, as the title of the piece describes, it is "an orthopaedic perspective", written by one surgeon and based on previous research. However, as methodology is not provided, it is unclear whether all the evidence relating to the topic has been consulted. While the decision to swaddle may be influenced by parents' or carers' personal beliefs and cultural practices, it appears to be generally recommended that if parents or carers choose to swaddle their baby, the baby should not be swaddled too tightly, still giving their hips and knees room to move freely. The baby's face should also not be covered and care should be taken that they do not get too hot.      Analysis by Bazian. Edited by NHS Choices. Follow Behind the Headlines on Twitter.   Links To The Headlines Swaddling 'damages baby's hips': Professor warns centuries-old practice that has again grown in popularity can cause abnormalities. Daily Mail, October 29 2013 Swaddling resurgence 'damaging hips', surgeon warns. BBC News, October 29 2013 Swaddling babies can cause them hip problems, doctors warn. The Guardian, October 29 2013 Swaddling babies 'causes hip problems'. The Daily Telegraph, October 28 2013 Baby swaddling trend 'could cause hip problems'. ITV News, October 29 2013 Fashion for swaddling 'is harming babies'. The Times, October 29 20...
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: QA articles Pregnancy/child Source Type: news