Swinging newborn side to side too hard?

khamz

My 3.5 week old DD was being held by a friend of DH and crying because she had some trapped gas. This woman held DD straight out in front of her (while supporting her head) and swung/whipped DD's whole body from side to side a few times hoping it would make her stop crying.
I've been worried sick all day that she may have damaged DD's brain. While it was not a violent shaking, it certainly was not a gentle rocking either.
Could this cause shaken baby syndrome? DD has been very extra sleepy for the rest of the day and not quite as interested in feeding as she nornally is but not exhibiting any other signs of SBS. DH thinks taking her to the hospital to be checked out unnecessarily will put her at greater risk as she is very young and does not have much of an immune system.

FelicitousJinx

If you are worried, call your pediatrician. In the meantime, check out these videos as points of comparison to help you gauge the incident better. I know nothing seemed gentle enough when I was getting used to caring for my daughter. 

https://youtu.be/eK4O9N3DjJM

https://youtu.be/j2C8MkY7Co8

harpseal135

Im sure your LO is fine. If concerned, call the pedi office and talk to them they will let you know.  taking her to the ER is a bit much - unless directed by your pedi.  But I wouldn't let her hold your LO again.