Osteopathy for Babies and Children


When might Osteopathy help my baby?
Some parents are concerned that their babies appear to have difficulty with the following:

  • appear to have trouble sleeping
  • getting rid of wind,
  • feeding problems (such as not latching on to the breast or not taking their bottle)
  • a tendency to always have their head on the same side when sleeping causing the appearance of a “flat spot” on their head
  • not having regular dirty nappies (constipation)
     
    baby

When Osteopaths examine babies, areas of tension can be found in the head or spine which are indications that the baby is uncomfortable. As a baby cannot explain how they are feeling they will typically express this by crying and being unsettled or irritable. 

In a research study conducted by Clive Hayden, (MSCC, MSc (Ost) D.O.) into the effects of the Cranial Osteopathic treatment of babies, some parents perceived the following changes in their children’s behaviour: Reduced colicky crying, improved sleep, less unsettled irritable behaviour and increased quiet happy spells.

Could my baby suffer an adverse reaction to Osteopathy?                                         
Often a child is very relaxed and can be quite tired after treatment. Occasionally they can be unsettled, this is a temporary response that occurs when mechanical changes are occurring post treatment. This only lasts for up to 48 hours. If you have any concerns PLEASE contact the Osteopath.

Useful Links


Arthritis research UK
General Osteopathic Council
Institute of Osteopathy (IO)
Osteopathic Clinic for Children
British School of Osteopathy