Osteopathic treatment of babies
The early months of a baby’s life involve a great deal of physical change as they adapt to life outside the womb. While many babies move, feed and settle without difficulty, others may appear uncomfortable or unsettled. Parents often notice changes in sleep, feeding or general comfort and may look for gentle support during this time.
You can read feedback from parents whose babies have been treated by me here: Essential Osteopathy Google reviews.
Babies are treated using a Cranial Osteopathic approach. This involves gentle hands-on techniques which are adapted carefully to each baby. There is no force or manipulation and treatment is always guided by the baby’s comfort and tolerance with parents fully involved throughout.
The short videos below give a simple introduction to Cranial Osteopathy for babies and show what a typical appointment involves. These can also be found again at the bottom of the page:
Age range and clinical focus
Fiona’s main clinical focus is working with babies from around four weeks after their due date at their first appointment through to approximately six months of age. She also treats older babies and will always consider what is most appropriate for each baby. Where helpful, this may include discussing whether continuing care with her or referral to a colleague would be the best option.
Reasons parents bring babies for treatment
Babies are commonly brought for Cranial Osteopathic treatment when parents notice:
- Difficulty settling or sleeping
- Feeding or latching difficulties
- Digestive discomfort including wind or reflux-type symptoms
- Unsettled behaviour
- Head shape concerns such as plagiocephaly or head flatness
- Signs of tension including difficulty lying comfortably on their back
Each baby is considered individually and no assumptions are made about what may or may not be contributing.
What happens at an appointment
At the first appointment, time is taken to talk through the pregnancy, birth and your baby’s early history as well as their feeding, sleeping and general behaviour. This helps build a clear picture of how your baby is doing.
Treatment can take place with your baby in your lap, while feeding or in an upright position if that feels most comfortable. Cranial Osteopathic techniques use light touch to explore movement and areas of tension. Some babies relax or sleep during treatment while others remain alert. Every baby responds differently.
Parents are encouraged to ask questions throughout. Findings and recommendations are explained clearly and honestly and there is time to discuss any concerns.
Booking and further information
Read feedback from parents whose babies have attended the clinic here: Essential Osteopathy Google reviews.
Appointments can be booked via the online diary. For a first appointment, please select Cranial Osteopathy Initial Consultation and Treatment (1 hour).
If you would like to discuss whether an appointment would be appropriate, Fiona can be contacted at fiona@essentialosteopathy.co.uk or on 07887 655007.
