Cranial Osteopathy for Babies
The early months of a baby’s life involve significant physical and neurological change as they adapt to life outside the womb. While many babies move, feed and settle without difficulty, others may appear uncomfortable or unsettled. Parents in Glasgow often notice changes in sleep, feeding, head position or general comfort and may look for gentle support during this time.
You can read feedback from parents whose babies have been treated by me here: Essential Osteopathy Google reviews.
Babies are treated using a Cranial Osteopathic approach. This involves gentle hands-on techniques which are carefully adapted to each baby. There is no force or high velocity manipulation and treatment is always guided by the baby’s comfort and tolerance, with parents fully involved throughout.
The short videos below give a simple introduction to Cranial Osteopathy for babies and show what a typical appointment involves. These can also be found again at the bottom of the page:
Age range and clinical focus
Fiona’s main clinical focus is working with babies from around four weeks after their due date at their first appointment through to approximately six months of age. Although Osteopaths are trained and insured to assess younger babies, Fiona does not routinely see babies before four weeks from their due date, as this allows time for natural adaptation and appropriate medical review where needed.
She also treats older babies and will always consider what is most appropriate for each baby. Where helpful, this may include discussing whether continuing care with her or referral to a colleague or another health professional would be the best option.
Reasons parents bring babies for treatment
Babies are commonly brought for Cranial Osteopathic assessment when parents notice:
- Difficulty settling or sleeping
- Feeding or latching difficulties
- Digestive discomfort including wind or reflux-type symptoms
- Unsettled behaviour
- Head shape concerns such as plagiocephaly or head flatness
- Signs of tension including difficulty lying comfortably on their back
Osteopathy does not replace medical care and babies with persistent or concerning symptoms should remain under the care of their GP, midwife or health visitor. If medical review is indicated, this will always be advised.
Each baby is considered individually and no assumptions are made about what may or may not be contributing.
What happens at an appointment
Before attending, parents are asked to complete a detailed online intake form on their baby’s behalf, ideally at least 24 hours in advance of the appointment. This allows key information about pregnancy, birth, feeding, sleep and general health to be reviewed ahead of time.
Once in the clinic room, a short period is spent talking through the intake form and clarifying any important details. This helps ensure nothing is overlooked and builds a clear picture of how your baby is doing while still allowing plenty of time within the appointment for assessment and treatment.
Treatment can take place with your baby in your lap, while feeding or in an upright position if that feels most comfortable. Cranial Osteopathic techniques use very light touch to explore movement and areas of tension. It often appears as though hands are simply resting. Some babies relax or sleep during treatment while others remain alert. Every baby responds differently.
Parents are encouraged to ask questions throughout. Findings and recommendations are explained clearly and honestly and there is time to discuss any concerns.
Most babies respond calmly to treatment. Occasionally a baby may sleep more deeply, be slightly more unsettled for a short period or feed a little differently as they adjust. These responses are typically mild and short-lived. Serious adverse effects are considered very rare when treatment is provided by a registered Osteopath trained in paediatric care.
Booking and further information
Read feedback from parents whose babies have attended the clinic here: Essential Osteopathy Google reviews.
Appointments can be booked via the online diary. For a first appointment, please select Cranial Osteopathy Initial Consultation and Treatment (1 hour).
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.
