Ring Sling question

[mrscompgeek]

I am debating between getting a ring sling or a Moby wrap. My concern with the ring sling is I have chronic neck and shoulder problems. I currently go to the chiropractor once a week for it. Does the ring sling not pull on your shoulder/neck on the side the ring is? I really like the ring sling and everyone says they are easier to nurse in, but the moby seems like it would be more comfortable for someone with neck and shoulder issues. Am I wrong? Anyone with experience?

[Carhootel]

That's a tough question because while I don't think the ring sling pulls on your shoulder, that's very subjective. The good thing is that both the slings and stretchy wraps are inexpensive and easy to make yourself or get cheap from a WAHM. I would figure out a way to try both if I were you - maybe buy a ring sling for $15 and get some stretchy jersey from a fabric store. You might like both for different situations!

[JamieCatheryn]

For a light newborn either of those are fine and shouldn't give you trouble. After they put on some pounds the one shoulder and across the back support of a ring sling is not that comfy. Moby wrap also had drawbacks with heavier, older babies, the stretchy fabric isn't ideal, woven wraps are better then, or ergos or mei teis (I love my Kozy Carrier, perfect support and easy-ish to put on too)

[tankgirl73]

Do you have the budget to get both? I've used ALL types of slings in my 2.5 years of babywearing, I've just found certain ones to be more convenient or more suitable at different times for different ages.

To answer your question specifically, when properly worn, a ring sling doesn't hurt. After wearing it for a long time, though -- say over an hour, standing up the whole time -- then yes, it can start to get sore.

Technically, you're supposed to switch shoulders every so often. Probably not on a single wearing, that would get silly, but maybe each day use your opposite shoulder. I used to switch my pouch side occasionally, but have never switched the ring... But it's a good idea to.

The Moby (or any other wrap) would indeed be more comfortable for long-stretch wearing. Using both shoulders and spreading across your entire back makes a HUGE difference. Moby's are super-duper comfortable.

Disadvantage of Moby's: not as useful once baby is past a certain size. It stretches too much. And if you're just wanting a quick stuff-the-baby-on-your-hip-for-a-few-minutes, it's not the most convenient option.

That's why I would suggest to get both if at all possible. Maybe find a local babywearer who has a ring sling that you can try on (put a watermelon in it or something lol) to see if it does give you problems? If the one-sided aspect is a problem for you, then an alternative like a nice mei tai might be better for you. There are some that have wrap-style straps (instead of backpack-style straps) which I covet... I'd get one of those if I were starting over again.

[Carrruth]

I am NOT a medical professional, but I used to work for a chiropractor and I know he teased every patient that came in carrying a purse by saying they would be a lifetime patient because of carrying that much weight on one shoulder! He constantly recommended his patients get a backpack if they insisted on carrying what he considered to be a lot of stuff. He said that adding even a little weight to one side can cause strain, even if it feels comfortable and light.

Although I wouldn't say a ring sling is uncomfortable, if you already have neck/shoulder issues, you would be a lot better off distributing the weight evenly over both shoulders. Plus, lots of carriers, like mei tais and buckle carriers, can help put the weight on your hips, taking some of the weight off your shoulders.

So in your case, I would recommend a Moby wrap or even a none stretchy wrap over a ring sling. A none stretchy wrap might be a better investment though because although you can use them with a bigger baby, the stretchy wrap wont be as supportive down the road. Or you could get a mei tai or buckle carrier, but I do find wraps to be super snugly with newborns! Although Eden has a super soft velveteen mei tai that is really nice for newborns.

You could always ask your chiropractor to see what they think! Good luck!

[NorthernPixie]

I have chronic neck and back pain, and I don't know why on earth I thought I could use a sling. Really, after only a few minutes (and having my 'technique' checked by someone I consider a sling expert) I'm in agony. I wish I'd made or bought a moby-style wrap right off the bat. I got a Beco butterfly when dd was around 12 pounds and it was a lifesaver. No pain at all. The only time the sling was really useful (and damn it, I spent all that money on it (should have made my own, I know) I was going to use it for something) was nursing while in a restaurant, so that I could eat at the same time. It was good for keeping dd's bum and legs supported so that I could have one hand free to feed myself. But to each his own - perhaps you'll have better luck than I did.

My mom suggested that I get a blanket and roughly knot it into a sling-type carry, put a watermelon in it, and walk around for a few minutes. I thought she was being ridiculous because clearly a watermelon is not a baby. But she was right.

[mrscompgeek]

Thanks ladies! I found a gently used Moby for sale so I bought it. Cant wait to use it!!