Signs of Tension in Infants

It’s hard to believe that anyone as small and sweet as a baby could hold any tension in their little bodies… but did you know that tension fascia and tightness in muscles can be exhibited in many different ways? That’s right! Your baby might cry every time he’s in the car seat because he’s holding tension in his body. Or what about those cute neck rolls? Do they look red and irritated in the creases? Another sign that your baby might be holding tension.

Does your baby exhibit any of these signs that they may be holding tension in their body? The fascial web of connective tissue covers all the structures in our body, meaning any restriction in that web can impact function in a multitude of ways. Fascia responds to stresses on the body by creating patterns of tension or strain. For babies, the most likely way for them to develop strain patterns in their fascia is through uterine positioning, birthing process and/or any NICU time or medical complications that require specific positioning. 

Here are some of the most common signs of tension in infants:

• Irritated, red looking neck creases

• Constantly fisted hands, reflux, colic

• Keeps head always tilted or turned to one side

• Body scrunched to one side

• Hates the car seat

• Doesn’t tolerate tummy time

• Body is stiff - always wants to stand

• Poor sleep

• Head flattening

• Difficulty Feeding:

• Tight/red upper lip curled under

• Shallow, painful latch

Physical therapy and Craniosacral fascial therapy can help! Manual therapists who are trained to release fascia can find and address your baby’s specific fascial strain patterns and give you ways to support them at home. A looser baby will be happier, feed better, digest better, sleep better and play better!