Phases of spinal curve development in babies

This article will discuss babies spinal curve development and the impact developmental milestones have on the formation of the adult spine.

As adults we have a strong supported spine in the shape of an “s”.  Adult spines are surrounded by strong supporting structures such as muscles and ligaments that hold it in place and allow for proper movement.

When babies are born their spine is still developing and they do not have stabilizing structures in place yet in order to support their spines. The first year of a baby’s life and their movements determine the shape of their spinal curve.

Baby’s spinal curve development

Primary curve: C curve

At birth, babies’ spines are convex, in a C shape. Newborns do not have the strength yet to support their spines or their necks and rely on you to support them.  You will notice that your newborn will tuck their feet in, bringing their knees to their chest as this position reduces pressure on their growing spine.

Secondary curve

As your baby grows and becomes more aware of their surroundings they will start lifting and turning their heads, engaging with you, searching for the source of sounds and smells in their environment. These movements will start strengthening the muscles in their neck and start the formation of their cervical curve.

One way to encourage the formation of the curve in their neck is tummy time. Not all babies like being on their tummies so you can make tummy time fun and interactive, talk to your baby while they are on their tummies and play some games. Tummy time does not have to be done in one 30-minute time slot but can be introduced at short intervals during the day.

Final curve: lumbar curve

The final curve starts to occur as your baby starts to creep and crawl on their hands and knees. Give your baby as much time creeping and crawling on the floor as it starts to strengthen their back muscles and forms the foundation of postural support.

Your baby will complete their spinal curve development between 12 and 18 months when they are able to walk upright.

It is important for your babies to see a chiropractor throughout their developmental milestones to enable them to move and lift their bodies without restrictions and limitations.