What Are The Chances Of Whiplash Injury In An Infant?

Posted on Fri, 8 Jan 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 8 Jan 2016 Answered on

Fri, 29 Jan 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi. My stepmother tends to be really rough with my three month old. When it comes to bouncing, she tends to bounce the baby pretty hard. I remind her over and over again to be gentle. It doesn't soothe the baby, it makes the baby more anxious. It's to the point that I'm afraid to let her hold the baby. I'm afraid that the baby will suffer from whiplash or that damage from the bouncing will result in damage years later. Should I be worried?

Answered by Dr. Diptanshu Das (32 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
You need not worry. But prevent her from doing so.

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for asking on Health care magic.

I understand your concerns and apprehension. Rocking of a child is supposed to simulate the mother's movements when the baby was still in the womb. More importantly it is an endeavor to stimulate the baby with a personal touch, care and support. If that component is lacking and if the baby is getting irritated or uncomfortable, it is better to be strict with your stepmother and prevent her from doing so. However, I do not feel whiplash injury to be likely.

Let me know if I could help further.

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar