Experts warn Kate Middleton over harmful 'mum-hunch'
Experts have warned Kate Middleton over a condition known as ‘mum-hunch’, which could be harmful if left untreated.
The Duchess of Cambridge welcomed her third child, Prince Louis, last year, and it seems that having three little ones could be having an impact on her posture.
Kate was seen walking with slumped shoulders, her head forward, tailbone tucked under – usually known as ‘mum posture’ or ‘mum hunch’ - during recent royal events, which could lead to several health problems like headaches, neck and back pain, and even lower levels of energy.
READ MORE: Prince Louis might lose his place as the youngest of the Cambridge children soon…
Speaking to Fabulous online, physiotherapist James Turgis explained that it all starts during pregnancy, but it can get worse post partum when mums are busy looking after their babies.
He said: ‘The more the baby grows, the more the gravity centre of the mother is going forward.
‘To compensate, the mum will start to arch her lower back. To keep her eyes on the horizon, she will roll her shoulders and will also use a different back muscle to adapt.
GoodtoKnow Newsletter
Parenting advice, hot topics, best buys and family finance tips delivered straight to your inbox.
‘When your body has adapted to that posture - which you've had for nine months during pregnancy - you tend to keep this posture for a while.
‘The fact that you've had a certain posture for nine months means some of your muscles will be weaker, so if you increase the use of certain muscles that aren't yet strong enough by carrying a baby on your front or on your hip, or if you arch you back when feeding, you'll maintain this posture.
In order to correct or prevent mum posture, the NHS recommends that mums make sure their back is well supported while feeding by putting a small pillow or cushion behind your waist to support your lower back; always change nappies on a raised surface or kneel on the floor next to a sofa or bed; and always bend your knees instead of bending your back.
Another helpful tips for new mums is to keep your back straight when you push your pram or buggy or carry your baby in a well-fitting sling.
Mariana is a lifestyle writer who has written for Goodto.com and My Imperfect Life. She joined the Goodto.com team as an intern after completing her journalism MA at City University. After six months spent writing about food, celebrity news, and family trends, Mariana left to write for Healthy Food magazine - but returned in 2017, to join the Future team once again. In her spare time, you’ll find Mariana in the kitchen cooking for her friends.
-
These are the 100 'most beautiful-sounding' baby names, according to science - they're pretty but would you choose one?
A scientific study has revealed 100 of the 'most beautiful-sounding' baby names. Is yours on the list?
By Ellie Hutchings Published
-
Grandparents act as a vital rock and ‘buffer’ for children when their parents divorce - but one in particular is more likely to step up and help, research reveals
When a parent's relationship breaks down, grandparents are on hand to guide children through the process and offer vital support
By Charlie Elizabeth Culverhouse Published
-
James Middleton shares sweet childhood photo of Kate Middleton as he promises to stick by his sister following cancer diagnosis
The Princess of Wales' family are rallying around her amid news of her cancer diagnosis
By Charlie Elizabeth Culverhouse Published
-
Rumours about Kate Middleton’s health have had a massive ‘impact’ on her children Prince George, Charlotte and Louis, reveals royal expert
"They are protective of their mother – especially as she has been unwell"
By Charlie Elizabeth Culverhouse Published
-
Prince William and Kate Middleton may break longstanding tradition for Prince Louis’ birthday celebrations this year - and the reason is completely understandable
Prince Louis will celebrate his 6th birthday next month - but his parents may break from tradition for the celebrations
By Charlie Elizabeth Culverhouse Published
-
Princess Charlotte planned the most thoughtful treat for her mum Kate Middleton - and it’s the perfect way for any child to bond with their parent
The youngster is reportedly 'going overboard' to look after her mum while she recovers from surgery
By Charlie Elizabeth Culverhouse Published
-
Prince William and Kate Middleton kick off half-term week with Prince George, Charlotte and Louis and it’s set to be a family-orientated break filled with fun
The Princess of Wales is 'recovering well' after surgery and is ready to spend some quality time with her kids
By Charlie Elizabeth Culverhouse Published
-
The thoughtful way Kate Middleton kept her family close during recent hospital stay - and it’s a must for all parents spending time apart from their kids
The Princess of Wales spent two weeks away from her family as she recovered from surgery, but she used a simple trick to keep them in her thoughts
By Charlie Elizabeth Culverhouse Published
-
Kate Middleton has made ‘confident choice’ to ‘be more hands-on with her children’ as she prepares to become Queen, says royal expert
"She has faced a significant amount of criticism and she refuses to change course"
By Charlie Elizabeth Culverhouse Published
-
Kate Middleton has reportedly ‘FaceTimed’ her kids everyday while in hospital as Prince William holds down the fort at home
The Princess of Wales is recovering from surgery in The London Clinic
By Charlie Elizabeth Culverhouse Published