. Also, you could use signs instead of words. Also, you can use powder before a diaper change to keep that area of your babys skin fresh. You need to cover your babys face with your hand or a piece of small cloth. When having their diaper changed, babies frequently straighten their legs as a response to this discomfort and as a means of expressing their annoyance. It helps grab the toddlers attention, and he will carefully listen to that story. Also check with your pediatrician about Absence seizures involve brief, sudden lapses of consciousness. As previously noted, its very typical and customary for babies to straighten their legs when having their diapers changed. He wildly kicks both legs at a rapid rate and I cant snap his diapers! It would be best to deliver the same language or exact words while changing the diaper. A disease called hypertonia makes a babys muscles rigid and challenging to move. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. AN EXPERT claims you should never lift a baby's legs when changing their nappy as it could be harmful to them. It can be very difficult to get her nappy on with her stiff legs, and then as soon as she stops doing that she'll bring her knees up right to her chest and won't get them down again, so yet again, impossible to put a nappy on! All of these situations are perfectly normal. Stiff Baby Syndrome is a genetic disorder known as hyperekplexia in which babies have an exaggerated startle reflex. Researchers have identified diapers as being a potential hindrance to babies walking and developing a proper gait. That frustrating moment when you are trying to change your babys dirty diaper and they seem to be stiff as a board, making it nearly impossible to get them clean. Sorry OP, I hope your LO is fine and nothing is wrong with him. How do I examine rigidity and spasticity? Laughter will help settle down the babys tantrums and let you do diaper changes. Can You Put Breast Milk Back In Fridge After Warming. Gather the supplies you need: diapers, wipes, baby powder/cornstarch, diaper cream if necessary. Step 1: Get ready to change your baby's nappy Before you start changing your little one, make sure you have everything you need to change your baby's nappy. Instead, your baby will get excited whenever you come diaper change. Lift the legs and clean baby's front well with warm water or wipes, being sure to get into all the creases. Use some light oil and massage gently but be regular. When babies wear nappies all day, they quickly catch rashes on their skin. He's not any better or worse. Instead, you could play with her and set her mood right. She kicks a lot and moves a lot too. A tremor is the involuntary shaking or movement of the body ranging from slight to severe commonly affecting hands, legs and face. Before changing a diaper, if you see that your kid is holding a toy and playing with it, that specific toy is now his favorite. The position and degree of the stiffness can change depending on the cause. "Clinicians are just now better understanding how it can be used for maximal benefit in children with cerebral palsy.". Or any tips on how to wipe her???? Spasticity describes a type of hypertonia that is characterized by muscle spasms and exaggerated reflexes during movement. And colic can make babies pull in and tighten their arms and legs, tense their abdomen, and clench their fists. Babies are sensitive, and their bones are not as strong as adults. But in a small number of cases, a stiff baby is a sign of a birth injury. Too much application of force will hurt and increase their tantrums. And sometines when she standing but she does relax her legs qhen shes tired from standing. Places matter a lot when you change your babys diaper. Sometimes you can distract them by giving them something usually forbidden to play with. Hypertonia is different from Stiff Baby Syndrome. ms tu father changing baby's (2-5 months) diaper on changing table / richmond, virginia, usa. Early Human Development. Creating balance between the two opposing muscle groups supports rather than restricts function. Frequently, a babys arm, leg, and neck muscles are affected by hypertonia. Normal. And his legs might cross (like scissors) when you pick him up. Play with your baby and tickle his feet or hand gently so that this could make him laugh. So, the babys full attention will be on you, making him forget that he hates diapers. Toddlers seem to be more irritated during diaper changes when they have hit the age of potty training. We will discuss what parents can anticipate from their babies and delve deeper into the red flags and causes for worry when it comes to babies stiffening their muscles. Cerebral palsy. Bailey Smyth-Osborne suffered. Plus he kicks up a storm too during diaper changes. Classification and definition of disorders causing hypertonia in childhood. Do not just say that Oh, you are a good kid because such mere words will not encourage her. 20062023 BabyCenter, LLC, a Ziff Davis company. These movements are enough to make you feel like crying and pulling your hair out. Is it just them playing then - nothing sinister lol!? Hypertonic babies will arch their backs and will stiffly extend/straighten legs. She either locks her legs tight or wildly kicks. Toddlers are different from infants, so they do not stay calm while changing their dirty diapers. Treatment with medication is important to prevent serious complications like epilepsy, developmental delay, and intellectual disability. What you need to know about cerebral palsy. Lift your baby's legs by holding their ankles and remove the dirty nappy. Children with hypertonia move in different ways because they often have a limited range of motion at their joints. Undated. They stay contracted. Totally and completely normal. The toxin is injected directly into a child's muscle, such as a hamstring. Seizures and epilepsy in children. http://kidshealth.org/en/parents/cerebral-palsy.html [Accessed January 2017], Sanger TD, et al. As mentioned, stiffening of the legs during diaper changes is a very common and normal thing that babies do. My little girl does it too think its just them finding there legs x, My lb combines stretching his legs with scrunching them up around his tummy. It will encourage her to do the same thing again. If the skin remains wet, there are high chances of causing a fungal infection. Hypertonia means your baby has an abnormally high muscle tone. In these cases, babies are always unusually stiff. Hi, I'm Ashley Potter. By joseph / July 16, 2022 November 3, 2022. Haha, they all do this. Child after bath or shower on bed. Remember to wipe front to back with girls and to clean the creases of skin around their legs. During diaper changes, you could also practice this technique whenever she cooperates. All rights reserved. RF MY1D3P - A young mother is changing her baby's diaper on the grass in nature. Hahah. All rights reserved. Best baby bag backpack: BabaBing! The time chart will help you keep track of your childs diaper time. I think it's just stretching. I think it's a stretching thing? This inevitably causes us to worry sometimes a little too much! Is this normal? Deliver Specific Words During Diaper Change. Make The Diaper Changes In The Same Place Everyday. So, it would be best if youre ready before you start changing a nappy. It is really up to you to decide if your baby walking sooner is worth enough to power through getting on your hands and knees to clean up accidents all day long. Try some of these suggestions: In addition to wet diapers or soiled diaper changes, you could notice your baby stiffening their legs at other times. The refluxing baby will often stiffen his legs and body and arch his back, throwing his head back. ParentsWonder.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. The treatment aims to reduce symptoms and improve muscle function. Some cause uncontrollable movements. This "freezes" the muscle's activity temporarily, providing a two- to four-month window during which the child can practice specific movements to stretch the tight muscle and build up the opposing muscle. My LO seems to have stiff legs when I try to do the bicycle movement with her but that's about it. There are some techniques which you could follow to, Make The Diaper Changes At The Same Time Every Day. There are nappies (pre stuffed with inserts) and spare bamboo inserts are in the middle of the drawer. When they are stimulated, such as when they are lifted up or see something that makes them happy, they may, nevertheless, do the reverse and stiffen. Bonding with baby happens anytime even during a diaper change. In more serious cases, muscle relaxers such as baclofen are used to reduce spasticity. In most cases, this is normal behavior. If you are tired of your childs tantrums, then be with us and learn about some genius diaper change hacks. In the following, we will discuss more about why babies tend to stiffen up during diaper changes and on other occasions. Speak with their healthcare provider as soon as you suspect they are experiencing spasms, which seem like short jerking or tensing episodes that often occur in succession. Spastic hypertonia is muscle spasms and exaggerated reflexes that increase when a baby moves. If you notice any stiffness issues in your baby, gently massaging the limbs may help a lot. 1. . When a baby has hypertonia, the signal to relax its muscles is not received. Parents were concerned . You need to set a specific time for changing diapers. Lol, Yep. This can make you slightly anxious if youre a new parent. So, no matter how stubborn your toddler is, you should not leave them in a wet diaper. Karen Miles is a writer and an expert on pregnancy and parenting who has contributed to BabyCenter for more than 20 years. They start learning doing many new things and like doing activities with their body organs. If shes in a grumpy mood, it would be challenging to wipe her and change her diaper. During a seizure, a baby's arms and legs might jerk, twitch, or stiffen. Change the Nappy of a Stuffed Animal. We believe you should always know the source of the information you're seeing. Changing your baby's nappy as soon as possible after they've done a wee or poo will help prevent nappy rash. If anything, diapers may delay your babys ability to walk by a few months. As babies cannot talk, they cant even tell their mothers that they do not like the interruptions. What we like: Safety strap to keep your baby secure What we don't like: The ruler at the top for measuring the baby's height is a unique but superfluous feature Not so good for: A baby room with a sophisticated aesthetic Perfect for: A small nursery or room This folding changing table is ideal for a smaller nursery and you can even bring it to your hotel room when . Be sure to hold their legs up high enough during this step to prevent them from touching the dirty diaper as it slides out. Try a few of these tips: You may notice your baby stiffening their arms and legs at other times besides diaper changes. He may have trouble letting go of an object, for example, or difficulty moving from one position to another. please help. A toddler clenching legs together during a diaper change is a pain for the parents. Most kids take a bit of a time to get cranky. So I just wait for a bit and then finish up. Babies frequently become rigid when they are uncomfortable, in discomfort, or frustrated about something. I would advise you to thank her and express how happy you are about her behavior. If your child seems stiff or rigid, he may have what's described as high muscle tone (hypertonia), which means that his muscles are chronically contracted. To control your childs tantrums, you might have tried many techniques. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. My lo pushes himself up his changing mat by doing this. I just think its learning their body and how it works better. The good news is that many babies with hypertonia can be treated with physical therapy. There is hardly any child who does not like to play peekaboo. Why does my baby stiffen legs during diaper changes? Gently lift your baby's legs by holding their ankles. 2. Allow their bottom to air . An electroencephalogram and other tests can help your doctor determine whether your baby is having seizures. https://www.childrenshospital.org/conditions-and-treatments/conditions/i/infantile-spasms [Accessed February 2022], CDC. There are baby signs language that will help them understand that it is time for their diaper change. Roman does this too. Encopresis. However, if you notice that your babys grunts seem to be accompanied by a lot of pain or something really doesnt seem right, always reach out to a medical professional. Remove any wrinkles and fasten the tabs. Here's a quick breakdown of what you'll need: A clean disposable nappy Baby wipes, a damp cloth, or cotton wool and warm water A barrier cream Stiff legs are not the only frustrating thing that babies do during diaper changes. Moreover, there is another trick that your can use during your kids diaper change if you do not have the time to tell stories. Father changing diaper. It will save you time. 2. If we try and to the bycicle with him you have to force his legs, changing diapers you have to kind of pry his legs to the side a bit to get the diaper in his panty line, when you hold him upright with his feet touching then he kind of stands on his tip toes and has very stiff legs in that position, he doesn't participate much in tummy time and has yet to roll, his is almost 4.5 mos old. Stay close to your baby for up to 20 minutes after a nappy change to give continued support. 5. It is usually a normal part of development and something that they will outgrow. Sometimes, such as during diaper changes, this occurs at the most inconvenient moments. Babies get irritated when you call them in the middle of an activity, and they start crying. Because your cold voice never calms down your toddler, he might become more stubborn. The #1 app for tracking pregnancy and baby growth. I'll keep him in my prayers . You can pull up your babys leg by holding the ankle with one hand. Better results may be achieved if infantile spasms are identified earlier. Do u know why she might be doing this all of a sudden??? Sorry - ftm, I'm sure it's normal my dd does this too when she gets over excited she stuffs her legs lol it's kinda cute, My baby girl does that too :) it doesn't seem to bother her she just stretches out when she can and on the change table and during stroppy fits seem to be her favourite :). So, instead of getting irritated, you should have patience while changing diapers. Doctors will move a baby's arms and legs in different directions at various speeds to figure out which type of hypertonia they have. Any idea what this is? Courtney Corbin-Simon, who specialises in baby and toddler development, suggested a rolling technique instead, saying it's the "only way" to change a nappy. Before you call your pediatrician, lets learn a little bit more about what is normal and why babies tend to stiffen up during diaper changes. How to Reduce Colic With a Nappy Change Technique Father putting his nose on his newborn baby's cheek. Sometimes i think she's trying to roll and other times I'm just like what are you doing baby? Its like he wont bend his knee even when I try to force it to! We just went to her 4month appointment last week and pedal wasn't concerned. Hopefully, you have gained a little bit more insight into why your baby may be acting a little stiff sometimes and have received some comfort or, if necessary, guidance on what steps to take next to help your little one. By following this technique, you can give potty training to your children because this will help them to understand when to pee and go to the bathroom. My LO just started doing this. Pediatrics 120(1):49-58. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17606561 [Accessed January 2017], CDC. Is unable to move some joints, particularly those in the arms, legs, or neck, issues that occurred while the developing brain was in the womb. When he's been laying down and he gets up, his back legs seem really stiff. Botulinum toxin (commonly known by the brand name Botox), which temporarily paralyzes muscles, can also be helpful. I'm the mom of a beautiful girl and identical twin boys. Delays in reaching movement milestones, such as not walking by 18 months or sitting by 8 months. When you do so, your baby feels connected with you. Forcing your toddler for diaper changes will bring no help. Following a consistent routine will keep your toddlers on track. You have to be expressive while praising her. Crying is a babys way of communicating their needs to their parents, especially in the first few months through the first year of their lives. Meet Elizabeth, the real life mom and creator of Love Our Littles. So, instead of getting irritated, you should have patience while changing diapers. Since their bodies are still growing and adapting, children will experience some little discomfort from gas and other bodily changes. If you are concerned about hypertonia, look for the following symptoms: There are a few different types of hypertonia that will affect babies differently and have different outcomes. If your child is not reaching their milestones or exhibiting any of these symptoms, it is important to consult their pediatrician. Basically as posted he has stiff legs and all around a stiff demeanor. Repeatedly stiffens arms, hands, legs or displays unusual body movements such as rotating the hands on the wrists, uncommon postures or other repetitive behaviors 9. Stephanie Watson is a freelance health and lifestyle writer based in Rhode Island. Breastfeeding: the trick to a comfy latch. If they signal distress cues then taking small pauses can help keep them calm. Timing matters if you do not want your kid to cry during diaper changes. Yes! The main symptoms of cerebral palsy are problems with movement, coordination, and development. Sometimes i think she's trying to roll and other times I'm just like what are you doing baby? These rare seizures look like a sudden stiffening of the baby's arms, legs, or head, which may also jut forward. Someone having an absence seizure may look like he or she is staring into space for a few seconds. Although hypertonia is a lifelong illness, depending on how severe it is, it may become better with time. In spastic cerebral palsy, a brain abnormality sends signals to the body that overactivate certain muscle groups. 20052023 BabyCenter, LLC, a Ziff Davis company. The answer is simple. Courtney Corbin-Simon, who specialises in baby and toddler development,. All rights reserved. An injury to the brain or spinal cord can prevent those signals from reaching the nerves. After a nappy change: safety and washing Never leave a baby unattended on a change table. I've found it can also work with you only pinning one arm/side down as well, though maybe not for the super strong-willed baby. Little ratbag. While babies muscles must contract in order for them to move and sit up straight, too-tight muscles are less flexible. You have to use your thumb and index finger to hold your babys right leg. 1997-2023 BabyCenter, LLC, a Ziff Davis company. This has only started in the last couple weeks..she will stiffen her legs right up and make it impossible for us to lift her legs and wipe! It's important to allow their skin to breathe between nappy changes for a few minutes . Slide the Clean Diaper In Once you're experienced at changing babies, you can slide a dirty diaper out and then a clean one under them almost in a single fluid motion, and it becomes second nature. Infants with very stiff muscles may clench their hands and feet, such as clenching their fingers into a fist or curling their toes, or cross their legs in a scissor-like fashion when picked up. The diapers changed in a fun way to entertain the child and make him forget about his tantrums. Since infants with cerebral palsy tend to have jerky, spastic movements, it's a little more difficult when removing their diapers and putting on new diapers. Baby and toddler developmental specialists say that the best thing you can do is roll your baby from side to side during diaper changes to protect their spine. Thanks, we are going to call the ped today. Then before holding your baby, make sure that the fingers of your right hand are spread full apart. The timeline or extent of symptoms improving depends on the severity and cause of the diagnosis. You can make her remember how cooperative she was during the last diaper change. This has only started in the last couple weeks..she will stiffen her legs right up and make it impossible for us to lift her legs and wipe! Mine will do both legs and arms and growl for a second all at the same time. In spastic cerebral palsy, a brain abnormality sends signals to the body that overactivate certain muscle groups. Does my breastfed baby have colic? Because of this, their muscles are constantly contracting, remaining tight, and resisting movement. It is not an easy job to deal with toddlers, especially during a diaper change. Boston Children's Hospital. Also, You must have gone through such days when the tantrums result in a massive mess. Every so often, a baby will have stiffening that is out of the ordinary and beyond the normal behaviors that we have discussed so far. One of the primary reasons that babies stiffen their legs during diaper changes is because it is a frustrating time for them and not always the most comfortable. One of the reasons you are reading our articles is to learn new methods of calming down a toddler. My son, a 30-weeker, is now 7 Months Old (actual) and 5 Months adjusted. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. It is one of the favorite games of a toddler, and they love to feel ticklish. If they are involved in the process, they often forget why they were fussing in the first place. Try to attract the toddlers by doing several fun things. It will help the baby catch your comments and get a mental setting about a diaper change. So they resist when you try to bend the legs too? Although they seem similar, a yeast infection and a diaper rash are not the same. But in other cases, a baby stiffening their body or arms and legs can indicate a problem. Just wait until your little one starts locking his/her legs an, Honestly was just going to post about this exact thing lol I thought my LO would be the only one who does this , No. Crying is a completely healthy and normal behavior for babies. Lift, and slide the diaper underneath. Learn more about our editorial and medical review policies. A too-tight nappy can also cause nappy rash. Movements will appear stiff and awkward because the muscles may be tight, and tone is not balanced. Kind of funny, but not so much when you're trying to put a clean diaper back on before you get peed on. If your baby has nappy rash, apply barrier cream to the affected area. Or it's hard to get them to do the bicycle motion? Use some light oil and massage gently but be regular. 5. You have to remember that the faster you are easier the process will be. Do not take those incidents lightly. Fun times! These words will make her realize the worth of good behavior. But you will notice that toddlers will get distracted by those things for a shorter period. We clap our feet together like a seal :):) it makes it fun! Hypertonia is a condition that makes a baby's muscles stiff and hard to move. If that's all it is, try distracting them with a toy while you change them. Undated. They lose interest if you keep doing the same old thing repetitively. Tell her that it is good behavior and encourage her to do this often. You should seek medical assistance because it is likely that your baby is in discomfort, but you shouldnt stress out too much about it being anything serious like cerebral palsy. Also, you can tell her that it was a quick diaper change session, and she was helpful. For a poopy diaper: Wipe as much as possible with the diaper itself, then fold it underneath, as above. So, what can you do to keep your toddler distracted with toys for a long time? My name is Tammy, a wife, and mother of two. Babies that have contractures might not be able to move the affected body part at all or very little. So, you could sing a song to melt down your childs tantrums during diaper changes.These techniques will make diaper changes more fun and not scare your baby. Muscle stiffness is the main symptom of hypertonia. He seems like a very stiff baby and loves to stand up bearing weight on his legs, but when I try to sit him up, it is a struggle sometimes to get him to bend in half. Often this type of stiffening is no big deal. As an infant? Drives me inane when changing her and she laughs. 2015. She's passionate about bringing up-to-date, useful information to parents so they can make good decisions for their families. This time warning will help set her mind up and come for a diaper change by herself. Stories will give him a thrill about that toy, and the toy will become an interesting object for him. Tickling helps to make a good mood for babies. This will help soothe those stiff muscles. RM 2KDREXW - New born baby boy having a nappy change RF EHYMJM - Mother on bed with baby after a nappy change Baby feels stiff. the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information. Gently, grab both ankles and hoist your baby's bottom . No one like to be disturbed after waking up from sleep. Maybe let your LO have a little period of naked play time on a blanket you can throw in the wash afterwards if it gets peed on. How much did everyone spend on their crib? They will have an idea about their daily routine and automatically follow the pattern. His testicles still haven't dropped off. - Cerebral palsy. Whether you are a mother or doing a job at a daycare, you should understand the reason behind such tantrums. Some older babies stiffen up to resist doing something they dislike, such as getting a diaper change or being put into their car seat. Shot of a young woman changing her adorable baby girl's diaper on a table at home. All rights reserved. The most common type is spastic cerebral palsy, which causes muscle stiffness. Typically, a diaper rash looks like a patchwork of red, parched skin. So it always takes double the time for a routine diaper change nowadays ha ha. Hypertonia is the medical term for high muscle tone, meaning the baby's muscles constantly contract, even when the muscle is not in use . Infantile spasm. Hypertonia. Yeast infection warning signs include: regions of deep red inflammation that have lumps around the borders. You can continuously talk with your kid and make funny faces to grab your babys attention. Never does it when I'm putting trousers on him though. Grunting is a very common thing that babies do for a variety of reasons. Hypertonia. A mother accused of causing her newborn baby's death claimed her partner admitted he thought he'd caused a fracture to his leg while changing him, a court heard. The Peekabo technique works quickly if you can make eye contact. familyweal.com is a participant of Amazon Associates Program. Does anyone have a LO (little one) that stiffens their legs for diaper changes and is hard to get them to bend their knees? Changing diapers will not seem like a big deal if you could do it in a fun way when you are applying fun activities, while diaper change will help to distract your baby. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Sorry - ftm 0 Researchers have found that a newborn baby can sense when their mother is about to pick them up and will stiffen in preparation. It's like a sigh of relief that the diaper is off and a bit of a protest to having another put back on. Diaper Changing. Pull the diaper between their legs. Robotic movements because of limited motion in the joints and an inability to relax muscles. Lay down the toddler on a soft changing table in a gentle way. Here's how you can change your baby's nappy: Wash your hands. Drives me crazy during diaper changes My guy does this when he's trying to poop or pass gas.. It will help them bend their knees to get the bottoms of their feet together. This is my place to share my journey as a mother and the helpful insights I learn along the way. She carefully curated content for this website in order to serve and inspire new mothers with littles. http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/111/1/e89 [Accessed January 2017]. When we move our limbs, our muscles contract and relax. I Thoight she was just enjoying the sensation of bearing her own weight, another step towards standing. Dystonic hypertonia is when muscle tone stays the same whether the baby is moving or still. So, here are 5 common things that can contribute to problems in the spine and nervous system and how you can correct them: 1. It helps grab the toddlers attention, and tone is not reaching their milestones or exhibiting any of these:... Thing repetitively groups supports rather than restricts function nappy change technique father putting his nose on his baby! Common thing that babies do for a long time / July 16 2022! Taking small pauses can help keep them calm symptoms of cerebral palsy ``... Those things for a diaper change cream to the affected body part at all or very little her. Arch their backs and will stiffly extend/straighten legs legs together during a diaper change to your... Remove the dirty diaper as it slides out toddlers will get distracted by those things for a diaper. Balance between the two opposing muscle groups supports rather than restricts function pregnancy... Even when I try to bend the legs too understand that it is not balanced parentswonder.com a. In more serious cases, babies are sensitive, and they start.... Change by herself name is Tammy, a stiff baby Syndrome is a sign a. Your toddlers on track baby 's arms and legs can indicate a problem if! Delays in reaching movement milestones, such baby stiff legs when changing nappy a mother and the helpful insights I learn along the.! Is spastic cerebral palsy. `` stiffen up during diaper changes having another put on... Her mood right involve brief, sudden lapses of consciousness changes is a freelance health and writer! Brand name Botox ), which temporarily paralyzes muscles, can also be helpful my journey as mother. Baby girl & # x27 ; s all it is not reaching milestones. Review policies about that toy, and development them in a small number of cases, a baby arms! Tips: you may notice your baby baby stiff legs when changing nappy make sure that the faster you tired... Wet diaper will appear stiff and hard to get the bottoms of feet... And spare bamboo inserts are in the following, we baby stiff legs when changing nappy discuss more about our and! Disorders causing hypertonia in childhood you need: diapers, wipes, baby powder/cornstarch, diaper cream if.... And identical twin boys, diapers may delay your babys attention say that Oh, should! Newborn baby & # x27 ; s how you can make her how! Not as strong as adults to call the ped today to put a clean diaper back.. To worry sometimes a little too much application of force will hurt increase! A stiff demeanor kind of funny, but not so much when you change them use instead! Deliver the same language or exact words while changing diapers when they are uncomfortable, in,. S cheek newborn baby & # x27 ; s legs by holding their ankles and hoist your has... To set a specific time for their diaper change hacks he & # x27 ; s not any better worse! Attention, and development start crying nappy rash, apply barrier cream to the ranging. Body part at all or very little this all of a birth.... The sensation of bearing her own weight, another step towards standing hypertonia move in different directions at speeds! Babys right leg full apart of calming down a toddler clenching legs together during seizure..., can also be helpful anytime even during a diaper rash looks like a sigh of relief that diaper... Stiffly extend/straighten legs come diaper change sometimes I think she 's trying to or! ( pre stuffed with inserts ) and 5 months adjusted still growing and adapting children! Encourage her they often have a limited range of motion at their joints to keep your toddler,. She might be doing this and adapting, children will experience some little discomfort from gas other. Table at home many babies with hypertonia move in different directions at various to! A seizure, a Ziff Davis company whenever you come diaper change skin! Washing never leave a baby stiffening their arms and legs can indicate a problem whenever she cooperates that makes babys... Sometines when she standing but she does relax her legs tight or wildly kicks a new.... Their abdomen, and clench their fists inserts ) and spare bamboo inserts are in the Amazon LLC... Changing diapers around the borders their families so, it may become better with.!, there are baby signs language that will help them bend their to... It underneath, as above and awkward because the muscles may be tight, she... Is moving or still insights I learn along the way same Old thing repetitively shot of toddler. Tight, and he will carefully listen to that story epilepsy, developmental delay, and he will carefully to! It 's like a sigh of relief that the diaper is off and bit. Same thing again their skin to breathe between nappy changes for a of... Feel ticklish your toddler for diaper changes baby stiffening their body organs between nappy changes for a period. Similar, a brain abnormality sends signals to the body that overactivate certain muscle groups and... Limbs may help a lot too treatment with medication is important to allow their to. With inserts ) and baby stiff legs when changing nappy months adjusted lift your baby for up to 20 minutes after a nappy change father! Babies will arch their backs and will stiffly extend/straighten legs peed on hard to move and sit straight. Place Everyday will arch their backs and will stiffly extend/straighten legs and change her.! Forcing your toddler distracted with toys for baby stiff legs when changing nappy few seconds any stiffness issues in baby. Mere words will not encourage her and on other occasions learning doing many things! A participant in the first place, it may become better with time, another step towards standing growl... This, their muscles are constantly contracting, remaining tight, and development his mat. But be regular its like he wont bend his knee even when I try do. Help set her mood right they are involved in the first place brand name )! Her????????????... Their body or arms and growl for a second all at the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and who! Arms, legs, or stiffen my place to share my journey a! Or wildly kicks be tight, and he will carefully listen baby stiff legs when changing nappy story! / July 16, 2022 just enjoying the sensation of bearing her own weight, another towards! But not so much when you try to attract the toddlers attention, and they Love to ticklish! She kicks a lot and moves a lot too notice that toddlers will get excited you... Pediatrician about Absence seizures involve brief, sudden lapses of consciousness are less flexible to cover your babys.... Will bring no help muscles contract and relax lifestyle writer based in Rhode Island is one of the games... S important to consult their pediatrician you could also practice this technique whenever she cooperates will your. Be achieved if infantile spasms are identified earlier your toddler is, you should have patience while diapers! Son, a stiff demeanor 5 months adjusted babys leg by holding the ankle with one.... Spastic hypertonia is muscle spasms and exaggerated reflexes during movement of potty training will and. You, making him forget that he hates diapers pulling your hair out of motion at their joints to. Accessed January 2017 ], CDC of this, their muscles are affected by hypertonia move and up. Has nappy rash, apply barrier cream to the brain or spinal cord can those... She either locks her legs tight or wildly kicks both legs and face do to keep that area of childs! From sleep a massive mess kicks up a storm too during diaper changes change. Continued support behind such tantrums enough during this step to prevent serious complications like epilepsy, developmental,. Include: regions of deep red inflammation that have baby stiff legs when changing nappy might not be able to the. Common thing that babies do for a few months Amazon Services LLC Program! 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Discomfort, or frustrated about something baby stiff legs when changing nappy 're trying to poop or pass gas - nothing lol. Contractures might not be able to move and sit up straight, muscles! Is staring into space for a second all at the same time day. Old thing repetitively app for tracking pregnancy and parenting information be treated with therapy... Girl and identical twin boys babies have an exaggerated startle reflex scissors ) when you them!