Are you a new parent?  These tips are for you.

Being a parent puts unique stresses on your back.

When you travel, lighten your loads as much as you can. Think carefully about what you really need to carry with you, and leave unnecessary items at home.   The less you carry with you, the less your risk of injury over time.

Adjust the handlebar on baby’s stroller so that it’s at a comfortable height. Belly button height is right for most people.  Avoid flexing your wrists when pushing a stroller.  You should be able to keep your shoulders and arms relaxed, and your wrists in a neutral position.

Parenthood involves spending a lot of time on the floor. When you can, support your back by leaning against a wall or against some furniture.  Regular stretches will help to keep your body flexible.  Get up and move every so often to minimize aches and pains.

If you’re a parent, you’ll find yourself lifting often.

Make sure you are lifting properly, keeping your spine in a neutral position.  Use your legs and knees to do the bulk of the lifting.  Bend at the knees and hips rather than stooping your back.  Use the same form when lowering the baby onto a surface like a changing table or crib.

Put the entire palm of your hand under a load to minimize strain on your wrists and hands.

A squirming baby is challenging to carry.  Consider a baby carrier – it will distribute the baby’s weight more evenly and take strain off your arms and lower back.  Without a carrier, avoid cocking your hip to one side to balance the baby.  Keeping your hips parallel and your weight evenly distributed will provide better support for your spine.

Avoid twisting your upper body. If you need to turn, (for example, to get a bottle off the table) use your feet to turn your entire body towards the bottle.

Chiropractic care – so helpful for pregnant people as the baby places additional strain on the lower back – is just as helpful for new parents! Chiropractic care will keep you flexible so you can get down and play with your little one.  Also, chiropractic care can alleviate many of the stresses and strains that parenthood puts on your body.  New parents should remember that by taking care of themselves, they’ll be better able to take care of their family, too.

Chiropractic care is for the whole family – children as well as parents.

Sheppard Chiropractic Centre treats patients of all ages.   If you’re not already a patient, call Sheppard Chiropractic Centre at (506) 635-8182 or (506) 847-7172 to schedule your first appointment.