Infant Hand Rigidity & Shaken Baby Syndrome

Shaken baby syndrome is a severe form of child abuse, though many perpetrators may not do it with the intent to abuse a baby, according to Medline Plus. The syndrome occurs when a person violently shakes a baby or a small child.
There are several symptoms that may point to shaken baby syndrome, and infant hand rigidity is one of them.

Definition

• Shaken baby syndrome can happen in as little as five seconds of shaking, during which time the baby's brain bounces back and forth against the skull. This can cause tearing of large veins; brain bruising, bleeding or other damage; or even death. Injuries to the eyes, neck and spine may also occur.

Causes

• In most cases, shaken baby syndrome occurs because a frustrated parent or caregiver becomes overwhelmed by a baby's crying or fussing. The baby may be inconsolable, and out of frustration and desperation the adult may pick up the baby and shake him in an attempt to quiet or punish. Just a few seconds of shaking is enough to cause the syndrome, though the baby's head striking a wall or another object can also cause severe injury.

Symptoms

• There is a wide range of symptoms that may indicate shaken baby syndrome. Convulsions or seizures, extreme irritability, behavioral changes, decreased alertness, fatigue, loss of consciousness, poor breathing, vomiting and lack of appetite could all be signs of shaken baby syndrome. Seizures and muscle spasms can cause infant hand rigidity and similar afflictions.

Treatment and Prevention

• When treating shaken baby syndrome, the first priority is to provide CPR to make sure that the baby is breathing. Next, medical staff will work quickly to stop any brain swelling or bleeding on the brain. Once the baby is stable, injuries will be fully assessed and treated.

  Preventing shaken baby syndrome can mean the difference between life and death. Parents and caregivers must realize when they reach the end of their patience and walk away, even if the baby is still crying. A crying baby is not pleasant to listen to, but if you feel that you are losing control, place her in a car seat or crib, make sure she is safe and not in danger of falling, and walk away.

  Seeking out parenting classes or individual counseling may help you to deal with feelings of frustration and anger.

Other Reasons for Infant Hand Rigidity

• Infant hand rigidity and similar muscle spasms and rigidity issues are often tied to shaken baby syndrome, but sometimes they are caused by something else. Parkinson's disease, for example, is a neurological disease that affects the movement and laxness of limbs and muscles. Although Parkinson's is rare in children, rigidity of arms, hands and facial muscles is common with this disease.

  If you detect hand rigidity with your infant, make an appointment with your physician as soon as possible.