This is a great piece which discusses exactly the type of theory that we would go in to if you were to book a consultation with me. Fascinating stuff and it makes so much sense! To book a consultation and learn more, please email me.
These images from the International Hip Dysplasia Institute show the positioning of a child’s hips in a carrier, contrasted with that in a wide-seated sling. They explain that in the carrier, the thigh is not supported to the knee joint and that the resulting forces on the hip joint may contribute to hip dysplasia. By contrast the wide-seated sling supports the thigh to the knee joint, resulting in minimal forces on the hip joint and the joint is in a more stable position.
The bottom two diagrams show the non-recommended cradle position against the recommended upright position. In addition to the risk of compression to the child’s windpipe, the knees are close together in the cradle position, which may contribute to hip dysplasia. In the diagram on the right, the baby’s hips are in a more stable position.You can find more information on their
website.

This is a great article by sling manufacturers Didymos explaining why front forward facing carries are not recommended.
I am filming some videos this week to upload to YouTube so that you can refresh your memory on how to tie your wrap after our consultation – look out for the link which will be coming soon!If you have a particular carry that you would like to me to demonstrate, please email me.
This article by Timothy Taylor, which features in the July/August 2010 edition of New Humanist magazine, states that it was the invention of slings by humans to carry their young which separated up from the other apes and allowed us to become the dominant species. It is a fascinating read!

Click here to read a summary of M’Liss Stelzer’s talk at the 2010 International Babywearing Conference in Idaho, written up by Jan Andrea, discussing the safe use of slings and comparing their use to the very real risks associated with infant car seats.
My favourite quote from this article: ‘it would be misleading to say that being held is “beneficial” to babies and their caregivers: it is simply what we are wired to do, and anything else is actually detrimental.’
You can see the guidelines which have been developed in response to the recent safety concerns over slings by clicking here. Remember to check the T.I.C.K.S.!
The Independent reports on how Infantino were made aware of safety concerns regarding their ‘bag slings’ 4 years ago.