Using a baby sling will help you take care of your back.  Slings relieve tension in your arm muscles and allow you to take the load of your baby’s weight centrally, through the spine.  Like any piece of equipment, slings need to be fitted and used correctly.

Fitting a sling

To ensure maximum protection for your back, wear your sling so that:

• your baby is held close to your body
• your baby’s bottom is approximately level with your waist
• the shoulder straps are crossed between your shoulder blades

Your sling in action

To protect your back while wearing your sling:

• tighten your lower abdominals to maintain your normal lumbar curve
• keep your shoulders level and low
• walk with a shorter stride than normal
• walk and stand with ’soft’ knees

If you’re having problems with your back, contact us on 6112 8981.  Remember, you don’t need a doctor’s referral to see a physiotherapist.