Why Your Baby Hates Tummy Time (and How Chiropractic in Costa Mesa Can Help)

Tummy time. It sounds simple enough—but if your baby cries the second you lay them down on their belly, you’re not alone. For many new moms, tummy time turns into a daily stress session filled with tears (from both baby and you). So, what gives?

At Blooming Chiropractic, a trusted pediatric chiropractor in Costa Mesa, we regularly see babies who struggle with tummy time

and often, there’s an underlying reason why. Through gentle, nervous system-focused care, we help uncover the why behind your baby’s resistance and support their body to feel more comfortable during these important developmental moments.

Let’s break down what’s really going on when your baby hates tummy time, and how chiropractic care for babies in Costa Mesa can make a difference.

Tummy Time: Why It’s Important

Tummy time is essential for building the muscles your baby will use to lift their head, roll, crawl, and eventually walk. It also:

• Strengthens neck and shoulder muscles

• Supports proper spinal and motor development

• Prevents flat spots on the back of the head

• Encourages hand-eye coordination and visual tracking

But here’s the thing: if your baby hates tummy time, it’s usually not just a behavioral thing, they may feel uncomfortable, restricted, or frustrated in their body.

Common Reasons Babies Struggle with Tummy Time

Many babies resist tummy time because of underlying physical discomfort that they can’t express with words—only with tears or stiffness. Here are a few common reasons:

1. Body Tension or Birth Stress

Infant Chiropractor in Costa Mesa, CA

Even a smooth birth can place stress on a baby’s head, neck, and spine. If your baby experienced a fast, long, or assisted delivery (forceps, vacuum, or C-section), they may have subtle tension that makes it hard to lift or turn their head comfortably.

2. Neck Tightness or Preference

Does your baby always look to one side? Babies with neck tension or torticollis often resist tummy time because it’s physically harder or uncomfortable for them to turn their head in both directions.

3. Reflux or Tummy Sensitivities

If your baby has reflux, tummy time may aggravate it. Being belly-down with a sensitive digestive system can make them feel uncomfortable or even in pain.

4. Flat Spots or Head Shape Concerns

Babies with flat head syndrome (plagiocephaly) may avoid turning their head to the affected side or feel restricted when laying on their stomach due to skull or neck tension.

Signs Your Baby May Need Support

Here are some signs we commonly see in babies who struggle with tummy time and benefit from chiropractic care:

• Cries immediately when placed on tummy

• Prefers turning head to one side only

• Always arches or stiffens their body

• Hates car seats or diaper changes

• Has difficulty latching or feeding

• Seems overly fussy or hard to soothe

If any of these sound familiar, it may be worth looking beyond “just give it time” and considering a natural, body-based solution.

How Chiropractic Can Help Babies Who Hate Tummy Time

At Blooming Chiropractic, we specialize in infant chiropractic care in Costa Mesa that gently supports your baby’s comfort, mobility, and development.

Here’s how we help:

1. Release Tension from Birth

Infant Chiropractor in Costa Mesa, CA

We assess and gently release areas of tension in the neck, back, and pelvis that may be making tummy time uncomfortable. Our techniques are safe, calming, and use only the lightest touch, babies often relax and even fall asleep during care.

2. Improve Head and Neck Mobility

When babies can turn their heads evenly in both directions, they feel more balanced and confident during tummy time. We help support symmetry and ease in movement so your baby isn’t favoring one side.

3. Support Nervous System Regulation

A stressed or overwhelmed nervous system can show up as sensitivity to touch, overstimulation, or difficulty self-soothing. Our care helps calm the nervous system so your baby feels more comfortable, relaxed, and ready to engage.

4. Boost Body Awareness and Comfort

Many moms notice that after a few visits, their baby is more settled during tummy time, more curious, and even starts hitting motor milestones more smoothly. When baby feels better in their body, they move more freely and explore more confidently.

Real Results from Local Moms

Here’s what some Costa Mesa moms are saying after bringing their babies in:

“Tummy time was a battle. My baby would scream every time. After just a few visits, he was calmer, turning his head more easily, and actually enjoying it!”

“I thought it was just something she’d grow out of, but I’m so glad we got help. She started rolling within two weeks of starting care!”

“The change in her body was so obvious—less tension, better sleep, and now tummy time is a breeze.”

Serving Families in Costa Mesa and Orange County

We’re honored to serve families from Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, Irvine, and all over Orange County. Whether your baby is struggling with tummy time, feeding, sleep, or just seems uncomfortable, we’re here to help you find answers and support.

Your Baby Deserves to Feel Comfortable Exploring the World

If your baby hates tummy time, it’s not your fault—and it’s not just something to push through. At Blooming Chiropractic, we look at the whole picture to support your baby’s comfort, development, and happiness.

📍 Location: 1525 Mesa Verde Dr E, Suite 210, Costa Mesa, CA
📞 Call or Text: (657) 845-1669
🌐 Book Online: www.bloomingchiropractic.com

Let’s help your baby feel more at ease in their body—so they can roll, move, and thrive with confidence. 💜