Osteopathy treatment using the cranial approach is very gentle, safe and effective and is suitable for babies and children. Many osteopaths are of the opinion that in an ideal world all babies would benefit from being checked in the post natal period. Treatment uses very light, specific pressure where necessary to assist the body’s natural ability to release tension and strain patterns.

Why assess a baby or child osteopathically?

Osteopathy is commonly associated with the treatment of adult aches and pains, such as bad backs. Most people are surprised that a child or baby is assessed at all as they seem to be ‘too young’ to have problems. The reality can be very different: structural stresses and strains are a feature of life and can start from day one.

The process of being born is one of the most stressful events of our lives. A baby is subjected to enormous forces as the uterus contracts to push the baby along the birth canal and through the mother’s pelvis. The baby’s head is remarkably resilient and has the ability to absorb these stresses and strains in a normal delivery; the soft bones of the skull are able to overlap, bend and warp as the baby descends, assisting delivery by reducing the size of the head. The baby’s chin is normally well tucked down towards its chest which also reduces the presenting diameter of the head.

Many babies are born with odd shaped heads which can be a result of the birth process or, in some cases, as a result of positioning in utero. Over the first few days, as the baby suckles, cries and yawns, the extreme moulded shape usually disappears. However, this unmoulding process can be incomplete, especially if the birth has been difficult. As a result, the baby may retain uncomfortable stresses within it’s head and body.

When an osteopath examines a baby, areas of tension may be detected in the spine or head. This can indicate that the baby is in discomfort which the baby is only able to express by crying and being unsettled or irritable.
In a research study conducted by Clive Hayden into the effects of cranial osteopathy treatment on babies, some parents perceived the following changes in their child’s behaviour. Reduced colicky crying. improved sleep, less unsettled irritable behaviour and increased quiet happy spells.

The Growing Child

Retained moulding and birth difficulties can take their toll on the body’s reserves and can leave the child more vulnerable to other health problems. Postural imbalances from asymmetry in the head, neck and body can give rise to discomfort or tension in the musculoskeletal system. In some children fidgetiness and difficulty in sitting still can result which in turn makes it hard for the child to concentrate.

Childhood accidents and falls may leave a traumatic effect on the child’s body even if there is no obvious injury. Any resulting tension can contribute to aches and pains as well as a reduction in the child’s general wellbeing. The occasional check-up with an osteopath can help detect any problems which may be developing and advice and treatment can be given as appropriate.

Osteopathic Treatment

Will it hurt?
The cranial approach involves the osteopath placing his or her hands on the child’s body to carry out very gentle techniques. These are based on encouraging the body’s own healing ability to release the stresses and strains felt within the tissues. Osteopaths who treat children are skilled at distracting the child as these subtle but painless changes take place. Parents can help reassure and amuse the child by reading or chatting to him/her. Some babies are soothed by sucking during the treatment. Many children go on to enjoy being treated.

Could there be any adverse reactions?
Reactions to treatment vary, often the baby or child is very relaxed afterwards and sleeps well. Others have a burst of energy after treatment, usually followed by a good night’s sleep. Occasionally children are unsettled after treatment. This is a temporary situation and should last no more than 24 to 48 hours.

How many treatments are necessary?
On average 2 to 6 treatments are sufficient. This varies according to the severity of the problem and the age of the child. Sometimes we suggest occasional check-ups while the child is still growing especially if the problem appears to be deep set.