When a baby experiences strain in their shoulder or arm, whether from their position in the womb or the birth process, it can affect their comfort, feeding and early movement. Understanding the signs and knowing how to support your baby can help them regain natural, pain free movement.

Causes of Shoulder and Arm Strain in Babies

Babies can experience strain in their shoulder or arm due to:

✔️ In utero positioning If a baby was in a breech position, had limited space or was pressed against the uterine wall, this can lead to restricted movement at birth.
✔️ Birth process A long labour, instrumental delivery such as forceps or vacuum, shoulder dystocia when the shoulder gets stuck during birth or even a caesarean where the baby needed assistance can all create tension or compression in the shoulder and arm.
✔️ Clavicle fracture This can sometimes happen during birth, particularly if the baby’s shoulders were tight in the birth canal.
✔️ Brachial plexus strain The nerves that control the arm and shoulder may be overstretched, leading to temporary weakness or reduced movement in one arm.

How to Detect Shoulder or Arm Strain in Your Baby

Some signs that your baby may have strain in their shoulder or arm include:

✅ Favouring one arm Your baby keeps one arm tucked in, moves it less or avoids using it.
✅ Discomfort in tummy time They struggle to lift their head or seem unsettled on one side.
✅ Feeding preference They may refuse one breast or have difficulty turning their head evenly to both sides.
✅ Asymmetry in movement One arm moves freely while the other appears more restricted.
✅ Irritability when handled Crying or fussing when getting dressed, especially when arms are lifted or moved.

What Parents Can Do to Help

✔️ Gentle handling Support your baby’s shoulders evenly and avoid pulling on their arms when lifting.
✔️ Skin to skin contact This can help with relaxation and encourage natural movement.
✔️ Adjust feeding positions Trying different holds such as the football hold can reduce strain.
✔️ Encourage movement Placing toys or high contrast objects on the less favoured side can encourage reaching and stretching.

Three Exercises to Support Shoulder Movement

These simple movements can help restore balance and ease any tension:

💛 Arm Circles Lay your baby on their back and gently guide their arm in small circles, both forward and backward.

💛 Shoulder Rolls Support their upper arm and softly roll their shoulder forward and back in tiny motions.

💛 Reach and Stretch Encourage reaching by holding a toy just above or to the side of their head to help them stretch their arm naturally.

How Osteopathy May Help

Osteopathic treatment focuses on identifying and releasing areas of tension in the body to support natural movement, balance and function. For babies with shoulder and arm strain, osteopathy can:

✔️ Gently release tightness in the muscles and fascia that may be restricting movement.
✔️ Support nerve function if there is any irritation or compression in the brachial plexus.
✔️ Encourage symmetrical movement patterns to prevent long term compensations.
✔️ Assist with feeding issues related to tension in the neck, shoulder or jaw.
✔️ Promote overall relaxation which can be beneficial for unsettled babies experiencing discomfort.

Osteopathic treatment is gentle, using hands on techniques to encourage balance and comfort for your baby/

Red Flags When to Seek Professional Help

If you notice any of the following, it is important to have your baby assessed by a professional such as an osteopath, paediatrician, physiotherapist or doctor:

🚩 One arm appears weak, stiff or does not move as much as the other.
🚩 Your baby is consistently fussy when being dressed or picked up.
🚩 There is resistance or discomfort when gently moving their shoulder.
🚩 Your baby has a noticeable difference in muscle tone between arms.
🚩 Feeding difficulties seem linked to their neck or shoulder tension.

If your baby shows signs of shoulder or arm strain, early intervention can help prevent long term compensations. Gentle movements at home, combined with osteopathic treatment, may encourage natural mobility, ease discomfort and support their development.

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About Me

Hi I’m Michelle, I teach parents how to calm their unsettled newborn with simple exercises and strategies. I can help you support your baby through issues such as colic, infant reflux, oral restrictions and birth strain. I’m an osteopath with over 20 years experience and a mum of 2 boys.