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How to Avoid Back Pain From Carrying Baby

Babywearing keeps your baby close and secure throughout the day, while allowing your hands to be free for the chores and tasks that need to be completed.  

However, for individuals who suffer from back pain, extra consideration should be taken to select a baby carrier properly designed to distribute weight and support your lower back.

Before you start searching for the right carrier, here’s what you need to know to find a baby carrier with the right designer and support to avoid back pain from carrying your baby.

Complete Original Carrier with Back  Support

How to find the best baby carrier for back support?

There are several types of baby carriers, each with their own pros and cons to consider. 

Wraps - A wrap-style carrier is a long piece of fabric that is wrapped around you and baby. This is the oldest, most traditional style of carrier. The flexibility and adjustability make it a great option for those that suffer from back pain. Wrapping does take time and effort to learn and master, and not everyone is comfortable with this carrying style.
Ring Slings - Ring slings are another classic type of carrier. They are versatile and easy to use. Because slings do not divide the child’s weight between two shoulders, they aren’t the ideal option for those concerned with back support and pain.
Soft-Structured Carriers - Soft structured carriers are the easiest to use and master. They often have shoulder straps like a backpack, and buckled waist belts. Quality can vary, so look for one with the right features to ensure a comfortable carry.

Must-have carrier features for comfortable carrying

When selecting a soft-structured carrier for all-day comfort without back pain, you should ensure the carrier you choose is well-made, padded, and includes lumbar support.

Supportive Waistband - Harness-style carriers that don’t have a waist band put all the weight of your child on your shoulders and back. This can cause strain on your neck and upper back. Always look for a carrier that has a buckled or tied waist belt to ensure there is even weight distribution between your shoulders, back and hips.
Lumbar Support Panel - A lumbar support panel works by providing extra support along the waist band for the natural inward curve of the lower back. The LÍLLÉbaby Complete 6-in-1 Carrier is a favorite among new parents for its structured lumbar support panel
Plush, Wide Shoulder Straps - Carriers with plush, padded shoulder straps help cushion the weight on your shoulders, making for a more comfortable carrying experience.
Hip-Healthy - Look for a carrier that is certified as hip-healthy by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute. Not only are these carriers better for your infant, these hip-healthy support positions also reduce strain on a parent’s back when carrying. 

Back-friendly LÍLLÉbaby Carriers

LÍLLÉbaby is well-loved in the babywearing community for our back-friendly carrier products. LÍLLÉbaby’s Complete 6-in-1 Carrier and CarryOn Toddler Carrier include structured lumbar support panels to help support the wearer’s lower back. 

Complete Carrier in Salt and Pepper

The LÍLLÉbaby Complete 6-in-1 Carrier is intended for newborns through toddlers, 7 to 45 pounds. It can be worn in six different positions, and with crossed or uncrossed back straps, allowing you to find the fit that is most comfortable for your body type. 

CarryOn in Sunstone 

The LÍLLÉbaby CarryOn Toddler Carrier is intended for toddlers and children between 25 and 65 pounds. The padded straps and lumbar support allow you to comfortably carry larger children. This carrier supports three positions, in-facing, back carry, and hip carry. A front facing carry is not recommended for children this size.

Both carriers are easy to put on, machine washable, and come with airflow fabric options for increased breathability during warm weather months.

Additional Tips

If you are worried about back pain or stamina, practice carrying your child for short periods. Wear your baby for 20-minutes and then take a break. Be gentle on yourself, especially if you are recovering from childbirth or a C-section.

If you are experiencing discomfort, check the carrier fit. The waistband should sit at your natural waist, and the straps should be adjusted so your child is snug against you. If a child is leaning back, this isn’t comfortable for them, and it throws off your center of gravity, causing strain. LÍLLÉbaby customers may always request a fit check in our LÍLLÉbaby Love Facebook Community.

Avoid the hip carry position. This may be a convenient way to tote a child, but it balances their weight on one shoulder, which puts more pressure on your back. 

Parents that suffer from back pain may also find a front facing carry less comfortable. When the child is facing forward, their legs are not wrapped around your waist, which puts more pressure on your shoulder. When they are facing in-ward, their legs wrap around your waist, helping with weight distribution. 

Fear of back pain shouldn't stop you from enjoying the wonderful closeness and bonding that comes from wearing your little one. Taking time to find the right carrier will ensure that you are comfortably supported for all your adventures together.

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Avoid Back Pain while baby wearing, best baby carrier for back support