Babies and Children
In an ideal world babies and children should have no stresses or strains placed upon their bodies. In reality, it is very different. Birth is one of the most stressful events of our lives. A baby is subjected to enormous forces, wether it's natural or c-section. Some of these forces can leave a lasting impression. These stresses and strains may present in different ways, such as difficulties sleeping, feeding, unsettledness, and generally seem uncomfortably... If we can help make things easier for them, then why not?
Babies to Children
At Shefford Osteopathic Clinic, we have experience of treating children of all ages (from neonates to adolescents) for a wide range of conditions. Whether it's a new born or a toddler we have the training to treat, help and advise. We are trained to understand all key development stages, and have great success with most common conditions.
Techniques
As a baby’s muscles and bones are smaller and softer than an adult’s, the osteopath will use very gentle osteopathic techniques, and often Cranial Osteopathy.
Gentle soft tissue massage and joint articulation aims to release tension and balance the body. Releasing tight muscles and realigning the bones can have marked effects, often reliving a lots of symptoms.
Osteopathy for babies is always safe, gentle and non-manipulative. We will normally check a baby from their legs & pelvis, right up to their shoulders, head and neck.
Common Conditions
The sort of complaints we see in the clinic are:
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Trauma from difficult delivery (very long or quick delivery, ventouse or forceps interventions)
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Breastfeeding challenges (latching difficulty, preference for feeding on one side)
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Crying, difficulty settling, sleep disturbances, general unsettledness.
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Digestive issues (reflux, gas/wind, constipation, colic)
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Head shape asymmetries, or differences in limbs.
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Difficulty turning head.
Pregnancy
Many women find osteopathic treatment helpful throughout and beyond their pregnancy. It can help with pain reduction, preparation for labour, recovery from the strains of birth and looking after your new baby.
During pregnancy your body undergoes a great amount of change and development to accommodate a growing foetus. The postural changes and increase in weight (up to 20kg) are obvious. Other changes may be more subtle like the effects of the hormone on your body.
It's a difficult time for everyone, physically and emotionally. Don't let pain and discomfort add to the pressures.
Growing & Sports
Osteopathic treatment can sometimes be used to help reduce the pains which some children feel around their joints, especially if they experience a rapid growth spurt. By using gentle stretching and massage to reduce any tension around the joints and advising on activity and sports, this postural discomfort can sometimes be reduced. For very sporty children who may have sports injuries, a combination of treatment and the correct advice on training and rehabilitation can be helpful.
Aftercare
Reactions to treatment are variable, 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 usually clears within 24-48 hours. We would love to help, so if you have any questions about your child, please give us a call to see if we can help ad offer advice.