Did cowboys have bowlegged legs because of cloth diapers?
Do you use cloth diapers on your baby? Then your baby will have cowboy bow legs.
Usually the conversation starts there and continues with:
“You know, I've been an educator for over 20 years, I see that in kids every day. The volume of diapers makes babies' legs arch! Don't use diapers like that.
The volume in the middle of the legs makes your baby look bow-legged”
And if you haven't heard that comment yet, you're very lucky.
Shall we start with demystification?
As bow legs are caused by a disease called Blount's disease. Bowing of the legs happens when the tibia (lower leg bone) grows disproportionately. That is, the external part grows more than the internal and causes the inclination and such arching.
Now you can rest and sleep peacefully. The arching of the legs it has nothing to do with whether or not to use cloth diapers.
Let's now demystify the volume part.
These two myths are closely related so I thought it best to talk about both at the same time.
The part about the “big” volume of diapers that causes so much confusion.
Is that disposable diapers are thin and the baby can stretch his legs.
Is it really that good?
Your baby does need freedom to move his legs. Is obvious!
But you want your legs to be in their natural position and completely spread out. This is the natural position in babies. It is a position known as M that ensures protection of the hip joint.
Below I leave you an image of the international hip dysplasia organization.
Have you noticed why is volume between legs important, right?
Basically, the spacing provided by cloth nappies keeps the legs open and helps your baby maintain their natural position. Two perks at once! Protected hip, protected skin, direct savings... Well I said two I'll stop here.
A picture is worth a thousand words.
Below you have the image that best reflects the position your baby should maintain, especially if you do babywearing.
Curiosity. Did you know that countries where they traditionally do babywearing have the lowest frequency rate of hip dysplasia? Guess why?
Exactly! Babywearing + diapers ensure hip protection.
Please note that if your baby has hip dysplasia only reusable diapers do not help. You really have to go to the doctor with it because it has to be followed correctly to correct the problem.
Do you have more stories like this or questions? Tell me everything in the comments.
To me I was told that my son would take a long time to sit up because of the diapers. Well… At 4 months he could sit with help and at 5 months he could sit alone.
Every baby has its speed. In case of doubt, your pediatrician will always help you.
