Posture in low-risk pre-term infants of 30 weeks postmenstrual age

In this study we analysed the spontaneous postural behaviour of seven pre-term infants of 30 weeks postmenstrual age (PMA). Each infant was observed for a 3-h observation period and each minute a sketch of the resting-posture was made. Analysis of the postures included the complete observed posture, the distribution of adduction and abduction of the hips and shoulders and the distribution of extension and flexion of the elbows and knees. Although each infant showed a preference posture, no preference posture for the total group could be determined. A separate analysis of the positions of the limbs showed a preference for fully flexed arms and partly extended legs. Because no group preference posture at 30 weeks PMA (nor at other PMA in different studies) could be determined, it is suggested that the use of posture as a characteristic of PMA is no longer warranted.