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Protecting your baby's spine

During baby's first year, their spine will grow 50%. That first year is also a critical period of development for the secondary curves of the spine (in the lower back and neck). It would seem that keeping the spine stiff and straight would be best, but the opposite is true; it's better if the baby can move. While the curled-up fetal position is preferred by many young babies, almost any position that supports the whole body and allows natural movement will ensure good spinal health. As your baby grows older and can hold her head up, she will probably prefer more upright positions; once she can sit up, she might like being carried on your hip or on your back.

Protecting your back

The best way to avoid back strain when carrying your baby for long periods of time is to make sure that your baby's body weight is supported by as much of your body as possible. Carriers that put all the weight on one shoulder will likely give you an aching back and sore shoulder if used for more than an hour or two. Carriers that spread the baby's weight over both shoulders are better, and the best carriers spread the load on both shoulders and across your hips using a hip belt.

Single-shoulder Carriers

These carriers include:

  • Slings, including padded and unpadded fabric
  • Tube or pouch slings
  • Ring slings
To lessen the chance of back pain, look for slings with wide fabric to distribute baby's weight across as much of your shoulder as possible.

Two-shoulder Carriers

Carriers that distribute the weight on both of your shoulders include:

  • Wrap-around carriers and slings
  • Most front packs
Carriers that spread the load best

These carriers distribute the load on your shoulders and hips:

  • ERGObaby baby carrier
  • Baby backpacks
  • Some front packs
  • Some hip packs (most use only one shoulder though)
  • Asian-style carriers (Mei Tai)
Special features of the ERGO Baby Carrier

The ERGO baby carrier was developed to address the spinal health of both the infant and parent through proper positioning and scientific weight distribution. It's soft and comfortable for both of you and can be used to carry a baby or toddler in many different positions, including on your front, on your back, and on your hip. A wide lower back support for parents helps prevent fatigue and encourages good carrying posture. The design of the carrier encourages baby to use your body as part of their support system... no more dangling legs!

Chris is an avid traveler and new dad. He is the editor of Babyinasling.com, where you can find a baby carrier right for you and your infant. Discover a variety of baby designer slings, rugged baby backpack carriers, and tips on how to wear your child.