Health Topics

Do not remove the harness unless instructed to do so by your doctor. You will have to bathe your baby by giving him a sponge bath. Take special care to check all skin folds, especially behind the knees and in the diaper area. Keep these areas clean and dry. You can use rubbing alcohol on the skin at the edges of the harness to toughen the skin.

You should dress your baby in loose clothing. Be sure that the clothing or blankets do not bring your baby's knees together. The nurse can show you how to put a T-shirt on under the harness without loosening the straps. Putting the shirt on takes a little time, but it will help keep your baby's skin from becoming red and sore.

Booties or socks can be put on your baby's feet by loosening the Velcro bands of the foot stirrups one foot at a time. Place the sock on the foot, replace the foot in the stirrup and fasten the Velcro bands.

When diapering, be sure that the diaper is fastened under the straps. Disposable diapers or cloth diapers with plastic bands that snap on the sides will help protect the harness from urine and stool. If the harness straps become soiled, use a gentle soap on a wash cloth and rub the dirty spot. The strap will air dry.

After your baby has been fed, the strap across the chest can appear to be tight. Only loosen the Velcro chest band while your baby's stomach is full. Snug up the Velcro strap after your baby is more comfortable.

The doctor will follow your baby in the office through physical exam and ultrasound. He will tell you when you may start removing the harness and exactly how many hours each day the harness must be in place. It is important to follow the instructions the doctor gives you.

Please call the orthopedic nurse or orthopedic doctor if you are having problems. For hip dislocations, follow-up adjustments occur weekly or every two weeks and should be performed by the orthopaedist.

• Your baby's feet are swollen or puffy even after the Velcro straps have been loosened
• The harness appears to be too small
• Areas of his skin become raw or a rash develops
• You're having problems adjusting to your child being in the harness and you would like to talk about it
• Child is unable to actively kick legs

If you need to reach the Orthopaedic Nurse before 4 pm, Monday through Friday, please call 513-636-4567. After 4 pm, and during weekends and holidays, please call 513-636-4200 and ask that the Orthopaedic Resident on call be paged.

For additional information on this or any health topic, please call the Family Resource Center, 513-636-7606, or your pediatrician.