From Giggles to Ouch: When Playtime Turns into a Plot Twist
Introduction
Every child deserves to be loved and played with–especially those energetic toddlers who love being swung around. They cling to your hands, begging you to spin them, their faces lit up with laughter and smiles that warm your heart and make you want to keep going. But what if I told you that this playful act could quickly shift from laughter to an unexpected twist? Take a comfortable seat and read on to learn more.
Explaining the Possible Injury
There’s an often overlooked risk when playing with children between the ages of 1 day and 3 years. Can you picture that moment when you. grab their wrists or hands and spin them around? While it may seem fun, beneath the giggles lies a hidden danger that could lead to serious injury–for the child, and sometimes even for you. During this motion, their arms and armpits are being stretched unnaturally. Beneath those tiny armpits lie delicate structures, including the brachial plexus–a network of nerves that control movement and sensation in the shoulder, arm, and hand. This area is especially vulnerable to a condition known as Erb’s Palsy.
What Happens in Erb’s Palsy?
Erb’s Palsy occurs when the brachial plexus nerves are stretched or torn, often due to excessive force or traction. This can lead to weakness, limited movement, or even paralysis in the affected arm. In such cases, you might notice that the child doesn’t use one arm as actively–it may simply hang by their side. As a matter of fact, be very observant, and always ensure that your baby or a child uses every part of their bodies actively.
Interestingly, this injury doesn’t always happen during play. Some babies sustain Erb’s Palsy during birth, particularly if a healthcare provider pulls on the baby's arm to assist with delivery. Fortunately, early detection makes a big difference. If your baby shows limited arm movement or doesn’t twitch their fingers or arms during normal activity, consult a physiotherapist immediately. The earlier it’s addressed, the better the outcome–treatment is often more effective in younger children.
This doesn't mean you shouldn't play with your child–play is essential for their growth and development. The key is knowing how to play safely.
Types of Lifting to Avoid with Young Children
To reduce the risk of injury:
Avoid pulling your child up by their arms or wrists. Always support them under the arms or around the torso.
Avoid swinging them by their arms. Try holding them securely under the armpits or engaging in play that keeps them grounded.
Final Thoughts
Playing with your (or someone else’s) child is one of the most joyful parts of parenting, aunt-ing, or uncle-ing–it builds trust, strengthens your bond, and supports their development. But it's important to remember that young children are still growing, and their bodies are delicate. By choosing safer ways to lift and play, you protect their future while still sharing those priceless moments of laughter and love.
So go ahead–keep playing, keep bonding–but always with care and awareness.
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