When can I take my baby to see a cranial osteopath?
What is cranial osteopathy?
Cranial osteopathy is a branch of osteopathy, which is a recognised allied health care profession in the UK. Cranial osteopathy and osteopathy use the same principles which are to improve the quality of life, manage symptoms and promote healing. However, there are few differences which are worth to be noted. Firstly, cranial osteopaths have a very well developed sense of touch which is crucial when developing working hypotheses and delivering the treatment. And secondly, the treatment usually feels very gentle and static in comparison to traditional osteopathy.
How does cranial osteopathy work?
Cranial osteopaths are able to feel tension and imbalance in muscles and other tissues, restrictions in joint movements or alterations in flow of bodily fluids such as cerebrospinal fluid, which surrounds our brain and flows down our spine, by utilising a highly developed sense of touch. This helps the osteopath to understand the root of the issue and develop a working hypothesis.
What is cranial osteopathy for babies?
Essentially, cranial osteopathy for babies is the same as cranial osteopathy for adults with the same principles mentioned above. The main difference is that an osteopath is treating a baby, hence, few other factors must be taken into consideration such as intensity of the treatment and stage of development.
How can cranial osteopathy help my baby?
When it comes to cranial osteopathy for babies, potentially the most common condition treated is an ‘unsettled baby’ or a colic baby. your baby can develop either after a difficult labour. The treatment would help your baby to relax and feel less stressed and irritated. Cranial osteopathy can also help your baby to manage the symptoms of the following:
- Muscle tension built up after difficult labour.
- Torticollis.
- Asthma.
- Cancers.
When can I take my baby to see a cranial osteopath?
You can take your baby to see a cranial osteopath the same or the next day after birth. However, before deciding to take your baby to see a cranial osteopath, you might want to consult your midwife or doctor to ensure that it is safe for your baby to receive the cranial osteopathy treatment and there are no underlying health conditions you are unaware of.
Is cranial osteopathy for babies dangerous?
Generally, cranial osteopathy and osteopathy is safe. However, to be sure that your baby is in good hands, ensure that an osteopath you are about to take your baby to, is qualified and registered with an appropriate governing body which in the UK would be the General Osteopathic Council. Also, we would recommend you take your baby to an osteopath who is trained and specialises in working with babies.
How often should I take my baby to see a cranial osteopath?
You would be advised on how often and for how long a cranial osteopath will want to see your baby during the initial consultation where an osteopath will complete a thorough examination of your baby and suggest a working hypothesis and a treatment plan.
What are the side effects of cranial osteopathy for babies?
Side effects of cranial osteopathy are very rare as it is the gentlest treatment of osteopathy. Mostly, you could expect your baby to be tired and sleepy for 12 – 24 hours after the treatment..
We hope this information is useful for you. If you need advice or have any questions about our treatments, please contact us. You can find us 3 mins away from Angel station in Islington. We are always happy to help. If you like this blog, please share!
References:
https://www.osteopatiabarcelona.com/wp-content/uploads/colic_infantil_2.pdf
