Comparison between Two Baby Carrying Techniques on Lower Trunk and Neck Muscles Activity

Abstract Background: Infant carrying is essential for caretakers, particularly with the use of baby carriers. A baby carrier, de-signed for infants aged one to twenty-four months, facilitates parents and caregivers in carrying out their daily tasks while ensuring the safety and comfort of the baby [1]. Aim of Study: This study aimed to compare between two baby carrying techniques on lower trunk and neck muscles ac-tivity. Patients and Methods: This study involved the partici-pation of 34 normal female individuals. The age range of the individuals varied from 23 to 32 years old. The age of the man-nequin is five months. The weight of the mannequin is seven kilograms, and the weight of the mannequin dummy is also seven kilograms. Position one involved measuring the maxi-mum voluntary isometric contraction of the upper trapezius and erector spine muscles on the right dominant side using EMG. In position two, muscle activity of the upper trapezius and erector spine was recorded while carrying an infant mannequin in the arms. In position three, muscle activity of the upper trapezius and erector spine was recorded while carrying an infant man-nequin in a front baby carrier [2]. This study started on January 2024 up to March 2024. Results: The results indicated significant disparities in mus-cle activity between holding an infant mannequin in the arms and using a front baby carrier. Specifically, there was reduced muscle activity in the right upper trapezius and right erector spine muscles when holding the mannequin in the arms, while high muscle activity was observed in the same muscles when using the front baby carrier. With a significance level of p<0.05. Conclusion: Based on the results, it can be concluded that carrying a baby in one’s arms is more effective than using a baby carrier. Carrying a baby in a carrier leads to higher muscle activity in the right upper trapezius and right erector muscles, whereas carrying a baby in one’s arms results in less muscle activity in these muscles.