Osteopathy for Babies & Infants

Many difficulties associated with early infancy can be attributed to unresolved birth strains which can affect the whole body, in particular the skull, spine and limbs. Some of these strains can result from stresses placed on the baby whilst in the womb; the position and size of the baby being influential as well as the health of the mother’s pelvis and supporting muscles. In addition, the enormous forces required to expel the baby along the birth canal; together with any required intervention (induction, forceps, ventouse, C-section) may add to the mechanical stresses on the baby’s head and body.

The baby’s head "moulds" to accommodate to these forces. This moulding should normalise itself within 24 hours of birth but in many cases this does not happen and results in retained moulding. This is sometimes visible if the baby has an odd-shaped head; but may also present in other ways.

Parents often bring their young babies to see an osteopath if they are displaying unsettled behaviour or if they feel they are suffering from digestion problems. Many parents find that osteopathic treatment has helped to resolve some of these issues. Parents who have had their first baby successfully treated by an osteopath may bring their second child to be checked as a newborn as soon as possible. Osteopaths are dedicated to preventative care and are pleased to offer newborn checks.

Babies are seen by osteopaths from as early as a day old to several months, as well as during infancy and early childhood.

Osteopathic treatment for babies is extremely gentle. The technique employed is more commonly referred to as cranial osteopathy.