Treating Children with Osteopathy

Ostoeopathy for Children

Osteopathic treatment is extremely gentle and suitable for the most fragile of babies including those born prematurely, infants and children.

Parents and carers seek osteopathic help for a diverse range of problems with infants and children. Children and infants cannot fully vocalise or acknowledge their discomfort but often display it through changes in behavior.

If a baby is uncomfortable the only way to express this is through being a fussy feeder, by crying and being fretful, or by not sleeping.  

Children and babies do not necessarily have to lie on the treatment couch. They may be more content and relaxed being cradled or sitting on your lap.

Babies are often treated whilst feeding – either on the breast or bottle.

All children under the age of 16, and all vulnerable adults, should be accompanied by a parent or carer. Any issues that you would rather not discuss in-front of your child can be discussed beforehand or written down.

For more information about possible benefits of cranial treatment for children visit www.craniosacral-therapy-information.org.uk/craniosacral-therapy-for-babies.htm

Bringing a child for treatment

We make every effort to make the clinic child friendly but post Covid regulations mean that we are no longer able to offer access to books and toys. However, if your child has a favourite book or toy please feel free to bring it along with you. Parents may be asked to entertain their little ones whilst the osteopath works to assess and release strain patterns held in young tissues. It might help prepare young children if they are told that the osteopath will use gentle touch on their head and body.

Reaction to treatment can vary: most often patients are very relaxed after treatment; others may experience a burst of energy followed by a good nights sleep. Occasionally a child is unsettled. This usually clears within 24-48 hours and is often caused when tissues have been so compressed that it isn’t possible to get complete release in just one session. Crying, yawning, stretching and feeding all help to facilitate more change.

Please bring your child’s red health record with you: it is a valuable means of communication with other health professionals and your osteopath may wish to write a record of your child’s treatment.