What should I do if my 8-month-old baby can't crawl yet?

Mar 28, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ma Yan
Introduction
An 8-month-old baby's inability to crawl may be caused by factors such as lack of exercise, malnutrition, calcium deficiency, rickets, or cerebral palsy, and treatment should be based on the specific condition. If the baby is frequently held in arms and lacks opportunities for crawling practice, they may not develop the awareness or ability to crawl, resulting in delayed crawling. This situation can be normal; it is recommended to provide more physical exercise and crawling practice for the baby regularly.

  An 8-month-old baby's inability to crawl may be caused by factors such as lack of exercise, malnutrition, calcium deficiency, rickets, or cerebral palsy. Treatment should be based on the specific cause. Detailed analysis is as follows:

  1. Lack of Exercise

  If a baby is frequently held and does not get opportunities to practice crawling, they may not develop the awareness or ability to crawl, resulting in delayed crawling. This is normal. It is recommended to provide regular physical stimulation and crawling exercises for the baby, which will naturally improve the situation.

  2. Malnutrition

  If developmental delays are due to malnutrition, leading to slower acquisition of fine motor skills and other abilities, breastfeeding mothers should adjust their diet to ensure balanced nutrition. For formula-fed babies, feeding should be done according to the baby’s needs and proper quantities to meet nutritional requirements for growth. Additionally, physical training such as rolling over and sitting balance exercises can be introduced.

  3. Calcium Deficiency

  If delayed development is due to insufficient calcium, calcium supplements such as calcium gluconate oral solution or citric acid calcium granules may be used under medical guidance. Appropriate sun exposure is also recommended to promote vitamin D synthesis and support healthy growth and development.

  4. Rickets

  Severe deficiency of vitamin D and calcium in the baby can lead to rickets, causing skeletal deformities and resulting in an inability to crawl. Treatment under a doctor's supervision may include medications such as calcium carbonate D3 granules or vitamin AD drops.

  5. Cerebral Palsy

  If a baby suffers non-progressive brain damage due to various causes, it may result in motor dysfunction, intellectual disability, and other symptoms. In such cases, cerebral palsy can manifest as an inability to crawl. When necessary, medication under professional medical guidance may be required. Commonly used drugs include diazepam tablets, baclofen tablets, and tizanidine hydrochloride tablets, all of which must be used strictly as prescribed.

  If any abnormalities are observed, it is recommended to seek prompt medical attention, undergo relevant examinations, identify the underlying cause, and begin appropriate treatment to avoid disease progression.