Shaken Baby Syndrome is a type of inflicted traumatic brain injury that happens when a baby is violently shaken. Often, there are no obvious outward signs of injury to a baby or young child’s body, but there is injury inside, particularly in the head or behind the eyes.
Violent shaking is especially dangerous to infants and young children because their neck muscles are undeveloped and their brain tissue is exceptionally fragile. Their small size further adds to the risk of injury. Vigorous shaking repeatedly pitches the brain in different directions.
Specific questions on the subject of shaken baby syndrome should be directed to your physician or pediatrician.
For more information about Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS) go to
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome
Mayo Clinic: Shaken Baby Syndrome
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SOURCE: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
PREPARED BY: 211/mm
CONTENT LAST REVIEWED: August2023