From the ArcaMax Publishing, Health & Fitness Newsletter:
http://www.arcamax.com/news/healthtips/s-371348-551847
CHICAGO (UPI) -- Having babies sleep on their backs reduces Sudden
Infant Death Syndrome, but losing out on tummy time hurts their
muscles, U.S. researchers say.
With babies sleeping on their backs, they miss out on the 12 hours of
tummy time they used to get during sleep. As a result, many babies
don't get the stretching and strengthening of the back and neck
muscles they need. This can lead to early motor delay, said the
Pathways Awareness Medical Round Table, a group of pediatricians,
surgeons, physical therapists, nurses and researchers.
Studies show 1 in 40 babies are diagnosed with early motor delay and
400,000 babies a year are at risk. The term "early motor delay"
describes a wide variety of conditions, ranging from low muscle tone
to cerebral palsy.
The Pathways Medical Round Table developed a set of standards for
tummy time that outline when to start, how much babies need and the
best ways to encourage the activity. Some early motor delays are
present at birth, and others develop or are exacerbated because of
lack of tummy time, however, with physical therapy children catch up
quickly.
For more information, contact the National Information Line:
1-800-955-2445 or 1-800-955-CHILD.