By Francesca Resurreccion, PT, DPT
Tummy time is an important activity for infants to help strengthen their neck, shoulders, and back musculature in order to build a strong foundation for the rest of their big milestones: rolling, sitting, crawling, and eventually walking. For babies with Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER), tummy time can be challenging. Understanding reflux and adapting tummy time can help make this important practice more comfortable for your little one.
What is Reflux?
Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) occurs when stomach contents flow back into the esophagus, causing discomfort. In infants, this is often due to an immature digestive system. While it’s common for babies to spit up occasionally, those with reflux may experience more frequent and severe symptoms.
How Reflux Presents in Infants
Parents may notice several signs of reflux in their infants, including:
– Frequent spitting up
– Irritability during or after feedings
– Arching of the back or neck, especially when lying down
– Preference for being held upright
It’s important to note that symptoms of reflux can sometimes mirror Torticollis and Plagiocephaly. Babies with reflux may favor one side due to discomfort, leading to a tilted head or flat spot, which can complicate tummy time further.
Tips for Tummy Time Success
- Timing is Key: It’s best to avoid tummy time immediately after a feed. Waiting about 30 minutes to an hour after feeding can help minimize discomfort.
- Use an Elevated Position: Instead of placing your baby flat on their stomach, try a slight incline. Place a rolled-up towel, a wedge, or Boppy Pillow under their chest. You can even place your baby on your chest while you’re reclined which is also a fantastic position for baby bonding (tummy time in a comfortable position AND baby bonding?! Sounds amazing to me!). Having your baby on a slight incline can help make tummy time more comfortable.
- Left Side lying Play: If your baby still refuses to stay in tummy time, try laying them on their left side. Laying your child on their left side will help alleviate their reflux symptoms. Side lying is an underrated developmental position—here you can help your baby strengthen their chest which will improve their ability to roll. Additionally, this is a great position to improve the strength and coordination between their abdominal muscles and their back muscles which will improve their ability to sit upright.
By incorporating these strategies, parents can help their infants with reflux enjoy tummy time while supporting their development. If you feel as if your baby may be showing signs of reflux, please consult your pediatrician for personalized advice and to ensure your baby’s specific needs are met.
If you have any questions regarding the tummy time for infants experiencing reflux, book a free consultation with a physical therapist.
Additionally, we have tummy time classes that are open to parents and their child in which skilled pediatric physical therapists work with families to work on activities for tummy time, rolling, pre-crawling, crawling, pre-sitting, and sitting skills. Our therapists are also there to answer any questions regarding gross motor development and are to provide support and build a community for our families. If you are interested, please call (818-864-6602) or email (contact@uplifttherapycenter.com) us for more information and to reserve your spot for the next class!
