The effects of prone positioning on the quality and acquisition of developmental milestones in four-month-old infants

PURPOSE: This study investigated whether positioning infants in the prone position while awake affected the quality and achievement of developmental motor milestones. METHODS: One hundred four-month-old infants were administered the Alberta Infant Motor Scale to assess motor development. A Parent Questionnaire was used to gather information on time spent in various positions throughout a typical 24-hour day. RESULTS: Significant differences (p < 0.001) in the achievement of seven prone, three supine, and three sitting milestones were evidenced in infants who spent time awake in the prone position compared to those whose time in the prone position was limited. CONCLUSIONS: Prone positioning while awake appears to be associated with certain motor milestones achieved by four-month old infants.