Osteopathy and the youngest members of our community 

27th June 2022 | Health

“Osteopaths can help people of all ages. A typical day in clinic can involve seeing patients that are a week old to 99 years young!”

I hear a lot when out and about, oh you’re an Osteopath…. That’s back pain right? Yes, and so much more. Osteopaths treat the (wonderful and amazing) body from head to toe. We see all sorts of aches, pains and injuries. But did you know that some Osteopaths also treat babies?

Osteopath for the Baby

Why on earth would a baby need to see an Osteopath? In short, most don’t need to. They thrive and develop perfectly. Some little ones may need a bit of extra help though. Common reasons Osteopaths may examine and treat babies include when the baby may have some feeding difficulties, irritability, or preference to only move their head in one direction.

When treating babies, Cranial Osteopathy/techniques are preferred as they are safe, gentle, and non-invasive. Cranial Osteopathy involves the practitioner feeling the small natural changes of movement in the body called involuntary motion. These feel like tiny expansions and contractions of the body. Disturbance to an individual’s involuntary motion can happen through the birthing process.

As I am a local, community based and centred practice, the links I have with the local Health Visitors and GPs are well established. Communication with them is essential if there are any concerns with babies. 

New Born checks

At Kibworth Osteopaths we also provide an Osteopathic new-born check. This was designed by Emily for parents to have their baby checked Osteopathically following birth (anytime from one week to three months old).

This includes finding out about pregnancy and delivery, whether parents have any concerns (for example with feeding) and their baby’s general medical health. After this, with parental consent, an Osteopathic assessment is carried out (including paediatric reflexes, tongue-tie check, weight check, involuntary motion check, and advice on physical development).

My day in clinic is always varied and unpredictable, and I love it! It is a real pleasure helping all members of this wonderful community.

For more information on how Osteopathy can help you, or your little one, please visit www.kibworthosteopaths.co.uk or call me directly on 07761 664325.

Always happy to help you,

Emily Coombes (B’Ost)

Registered Osteopath (7416)