Baby osteopathy: Know how we can help your baby!
What is osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a recognised primary health care occupation. It is based on the theory that smooth function of bones, ligaments, tendons and connective tissue can improve the quality of your life. Besides, it helps individuals manage certain conditions. Osteopaths can use several hands on techniques to achieve the following:
- Increase the circulation to certain areas.
- Reduce muscle stiffness.
- Manage pain.
- Improve the mobility of the joints.
- Promote natural healing abilities.
What is baby osteopathy?
It is essentially the same as general osteopathy described above. However, when working with babies, osteopaths apply techniques significantly gentler in comparison to adults. Overall, osteopaths will aim to help promote healthy development of a baby.
How can baby osteopathy help my baby?
There are several benefits from taking your baby to see an osteopath. The list below will cover the most common benefits of baby osteopathy:
- Trauma from a strenuous delivery.
- Digestive disorders which can include constipation, bloating and reflux.
- Asymmetry of head shape and torticollis (that is to say, head being rotated to one side due to muscle tension/spasm).
- Breastfeeding difficulties which may include preference to feed on one side or difficulty latching.
- Crying, baby being unsettled, fussy or colic.
- Help with sleeping difficulties.
- Difficulties learning.
- Strengthen the immune system.
When can I take my baby to see the baby osteopath?
Taking your baby to see an osteopath is recommended if you have concerns about their development, regardless of their age. The earlier you take your baby to an osteopath, the better the predicted outcome, so it’s always a good idea to be proactive.
Is baby osteopathy dangerous?
Baby osteopathy is a safe and gentle treatment modality to help your baby with musculoskeletal development. However, cranial osteopathy for babies whose skull has not formed yet can be slightly irritating and, just as normal osteopathy, should only be performed by a qualified professional.
Who can deliver baby osteopathy treatments?
In the UK, when it comes to delivering baby osteopathy treatments, the responsibility falls on the shoulders of registered healthcare professionals such as osteopaths, physiotherapists, chiropractors, and craniosacral therapists. These primary healthcare professions are regulated by specific governing bodies and laws, which make it mandatory for them to have the necessary certification to provide such treatments.
How often should I take my baby to see an osteopath?
You would be advised on how often and for how long an osteopath will want to see your baby during the initial consultation. During it, an osteopath will complete a thorough examination of your baby and suggest a working hypothesis.
A final word
We hope this information is useful for you. For further information or contact a certified osteopath click here. If you need advice or have any questions about our treatments, please contact us. You can find us in Mill Hill Broadway and Islington. We are always happy to help. If you like this blog, please share!
