Osteopathic treatment of babies
The early months of a baby’s life involve rapid physical and neurological change. As babies adapt to life outside the womb, some move and settle easily while others appear uncomfortable or unsettled. Osteopathic assessment looks at how a baby is moving and adapting during this period.
Areas such as the head, neck, diaphragm and digestive system may be involved in how a baby moves, feeds and settles. For many babies this period passes smoothly. For others, parents may notice signs of discomfort or unsettled behaviour in the weeks or months following birth.
Osteopathy for babies uses very gentle, hands-on assessment and treatment to support comfort, movement and early development. Treatment does not involve force or manipulation and is adapted carefully to each baby.
Fiona’s main clinical focus and experience is working with babies from 4 weeks after their due date at their first appointment through to around 6 months of age. This reflects where she most commonly works and where her experience is concentrated.
Babies may be brought for Osteopathic assessment for a range of reasons. These include feeding difficulties, digestive discomfort, wind, reflux-type symptoms, unsettled behaviour or difficulties settling or sleeping. Each baby is assessed individually and no assumptions are made about what may or may not be contributing.
What happens at an appointment
At the first appointment, Fiona will take time to ask about the pregnancy, birth and your baby’s early history, as well as feeding, sleeping and general behaviour. This helps build a clear picture of how your baby is doing and what support may be helpful.
Assessment and treatment are gentle and subtle, using light touch and careful palpation to assess movement and tension patterns. Many babies are calm during treatment and some sleep during or afterwards, although every baby responds differently.
Parents are encouraged to ask questions throughout. Findings and recommendations are explained clearly and honestly.
Older babies and children
Older babies and children may still be appropriate for Osteopathic treatment in some circumstances. Fiona is always happy to advise and will refer on to another Osteopath where appropriate.
Further information
Short video clips included below give a brief introduction to Cranial Osteopathy and help illustrate the gentle nature of Osteopathic assessment and treatment for babies.
Feedback from parents whose babies have been treated at the clinic is available via Essential Osteopathy Google reviews.
Appointments can be booked directly via my online diary
For a first appointment, please select the Cranial Osteopathy Initial Consultation and Treatment (1 hour) option.
If you would like to discuss whether an appointment would be appropriate, Fiona can be contacted at fiona@essentialosteopathy.co.uk or on 07887 655007.
