Delayed Neck Muscle Development

DS is 16 weeks today and he still doesn't lift his head when he has tummy time. If I put him on his tummy he will just turn his head to one side and lifts up his legs and moves his arms about. I try to give him tummy time most days to help promote use of his head, but at worst he would have tummy time at least 3 times a week.

When he is on his back, I can hold his arms and pull him up to a sitting position (there is a bit of head lag but he will lift his head up) and he can sit (assisted) and his little head bobbles around alot

He was almost 4 weeks early, but even going by his adjusted age I would have thought he would be able to do this by now

I have made an appt to see our Paed, but cant get in for 4 weeks - bugger!

Anyone else's bubs been slow in this development? And if so, what helped? Physio etc? It seems that his head is just too heavy for his little body :wall:

Thanks
Naomi

maybe try tummy time whilst having him lying on your tummy reclined in a chair, that way he can see his mum! or try rolling up a small towel and placing it under his chest so it lifts his torso up slightly

My DD was "slow" with all her gross motor skills. She took ages to hold her head up, roll over and even walk (at 19 months). I was always worried throughout every stage but have decided now that kids are on their own timetable. She was slow with gross motor but early to talk and always had great fine motor skills.

I recommend a child physio though- we saw one and they are very good at picking up what is just normal "lateness" and what is actually a physical problem. Either way they will give you exercises to develop your child or refer you to someone if the issue is more serious.

Good Luck!

A paediatric physiotherapist is a great idea - they can check for things like low muscle tone. I am sure it's nothing to worry about, but you will feel much better when you know for sure. GL hun.

Thanks Guys,

Yesterday during tummy time he lifted his head up (only about 1cm but thats the first time he's done that). I think I just need to relax and let him do things in his own time. I'm gonna keep the Paed appt just in case, if he sends us home telling us everythings fine then at least I'll stop worrying :)