Rolling Back-to-Belly

In addition to torticollis, Kellyn also had mild trunk curvature.  This trunk curvature made it difficult for her to roll onto her right side.  When she rolled, she usually favored rolling onto her left side.  Kellyn's physical therapist wanted her to become comfortable rolling to her less favored right side.  So here's how the exercise I do to help her become more comfy rolling onto her right side.  I have include both a video tutorial and a written tutorial below.  Please note that the written tutorial offers a bit more hands-on guidance and support for your baby doing the roll.  The video offers less hands-on support and is geared more for babies who can roll independently with a little extra encouragement.

Video Tutorial:




Step-by-Step Instructions:

1.  Lay baby on her back. Place a noisy toy above her head and to her right.

Step 1

2.  Encourage baby to look in the direction of and reach for the toy. At the same time, bend left leg and gently bring across body to baby's right side.

Step 2

3.  As she reaches the point of being on her right side, apply slight pressure to hip in a downward motion towards her thigh.  This will prompt to her to raise her head up

4.  Continue moving the toy in an arc-like fashion. The toy should be moved just beyond her reach and should act as a moving target.

5.  Baby should end up on tummy.

Step 3

6.  Aim for baby to achieve five rolls.

Note: This rolling exercise can be done to one side only or both sides. If baby has trouble rolling to her left side, then you should complete this exercise rolling her to the left. Also, if you are interested in helping your baby roll belly-to-back, check this post.

Disclaimer: I am not a physical therapist or medical professional. This video and/or post does not serve as a substitute for medical treatment. If you wish to do any of these physical therapy exercises on your own child, you should first seek approval from your child's physical therapist. Click here for full disclaimer.