Healthy Hip Advice

Healthy Hip Swaddling

Swaddling babies is an age-old practice that can be a great way of providing comfort and assist in settling a baby to sleep. However if a baby is swaddled incorrectly it can become a contributing risk factor to developing Hip Dysplasia.
The International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI) states that the sudden straightening of a babys hips to the standing position can loosen the joints and damage the soft cartilage of the hip socket.
There are a variety of different swaddling methods. The key to healthy hip swaddling is to ensure that the babys hips have enough room in the wrap to move freely. Legs should be bent with the knees apart.
The Victoria Paediatric Orthopaedic Network (VPON) provides a fact sheet on Safe Wrapping for Hip Dysplasia.
The Royal Childrens Hospital has created a helpful video on how to swaddle your baby in a hip-friendly position.
Royal Childrens Hospital Safe Swaddling Video

INCORRECT SWADDLING
Source: Leo Donnan

CORRECT SWADDLING
Source: Leo Donnan

VPON Factsheet

A step by step guide on how to swaddle your baby the hip healthy way

Baby carriers and slings are becoming increasingly popular. When choosing a carrier or sling, it is recommended to choose one that provides support to your babys thigh (to the knee). The legs should be spread (froggy position), which is the ideal position to maintain healthy hip positioning. Also ensure that your child is in a wider car seat so it allows their legs to be a part and puts their hips into a better position. We have included some diagrams from the International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI) which illustrate both the incorrect and correct positioning for a baby in a carrier/sling and car seat.

Source: International Hip Dysplasia Institute

Healthy Hip Baby Slings

Source: International Hip Dysplasia Institute

 Healthy Hip Car Seat Positioning

Source: International Hip Dysplasia Institute

Photo Source: Dr. Jessica Lees website

Please AVOID your child sitting in the W position. It is not hip healthy!