Paediatric Osteopathy

What is paediatric osteopathy?

Cranial osteopathy is a gentle yet effective form of osteopathic treatment. It can be used to treat people of all ages, and is particularly suited to treating babies and children.  Babies’ skeletons are softer than an adult’s and osteopaths will therefore use gentler techniques such as cranial osteopathy when treating babies.

In adults, deeply held patterns of disease – both physical and psychological – accumulate throughout life as a result of stressors (physical, traumatic, emotional) and become held into the body tissues, which may begin to disrupt this subtle movement and lead to ill-health and dysfunction. Cranial osteopaths use their highly developed palpation skills to feel these strains and tensions and to gently release them. This process can be deeply relaxing and we encourage our patients to take this opportunity to rest and unwind during treatment.

Cranial osteopathy is known for its ability to resolve issues that are not helped by other means. It can be of benefit to most people and can help in most conditions – from minor aches and pains to severe and persistent chronic health issues.

Who may benefit from cranial osteopathy?

Being such a gentle treatment, cranial osteopathy is widely used for babies, children and pregnant women, however it is equally suitable for all adults and the elderly. It may be helpful for a wide range of conditions in both adults and children, including:

For babies and children:

• Digestive discomfort
• Soothe and relax babies which may help with sleep problems
• Increased general wellbeing

For adults:

• Stress, including post-traumatic stress
• Fibromyalgia
• Dizziness/vertigo
• Musculoskeletal aches and pains
• Relieving stresses and strains during pregnancy and after birth

What to expect:

For adults:

Your session will begin by sitting and talking with your osteopath about any of your health concerns. Together you will discuss a brief health history and what you would like to get out of the session. The osteopath will apply gentle pressure to your head or other areas such as your ankles, tummy or sacrum.

For babies:

A detailed history of pregnancy, birth and early development will be taken along with discussion of your concerns. Treatment is very gentle with the baby in their most comfortable position. Most babies find the treatment enjoyable and relaxing. It has been known for babies to relax so much that they fall asleep during the treatment.

Cranial osteopathic treatment is very gentle and most people become deeply relaxed during treatment.  Some experience a mild tension, aching or sensitivity that gradually disappear, or feelings of warmth and relaxation. Others do not notice anything during the treatment, but are often aware that they feel very different when they get up afterwards.