What it is
Paediatric osteopathy is osteopathy adapted to the bodies of babies and children. It uses very gentle hands-on techniques to assess and work on the mobility of the skull, neck, spine, chest, abdomen and pelvis.
During pregnancy and birth, a baby’s body is subject to significant forces: cramped positions in the womb in the final weeks, compression on the way down the birth canal, ventouse or forceps, or a rapid exit by caesarean. In most cases the body adapts without help. In others, tensions remain and show up in feeding, posture or comfort.
Our approach is about the root: rather than only treating the symptom, we try to understand what the baby’s body is telling us and where it comes from.
What happens in a session
The appointment always begins with the parents’ account. We then watch the baby lying on their back and tummy: how they move, follow with their eyes, turn their head and use both sides of the body. We assess the mouth and jaw and, when there are feeding difficulties, observe a breastfeed or bottle feed.
Treatment uses very light, slow pressure. Many babies fall asleep during the session. Others cry a little, especially if hungry or tired, and then we pause. A parent is always present and the baby can be held throughout.
At the end, we show parents small things to do at home: varying holding and sleeping positions, awake and supervised tummy time, and comfort positions for digestion.
When it can help
Parents often seek paediatric osteopathy for babies who struggle to feed, have a strong preference for one side (sometimes linked to positional torticollis or a flatter head), cry intensely or have digestive discomfort.
To be clear about the evidence: studies on osteopathy in babies are few and of variable quality, and for infant colic the results are inconclusive. Many parents report improvement, but we do not promise results. That is also why we always work with your paediatrician and, when needed, recommend developmental physiotherapy or other assessments.
What to expect and how many sessions
After a session some babies sleep more; others are more alert that day. The number of sessions depends on the situation and progress. We reassess each time and, if there is no improvement, we discuss other options with you.
Frequently asked questions
From what age?
From the first days of life, once the baby has been seen by the paediatrician or the maternity team.
Does my baby need to have a problem to come?
Not necessarily. Some parents want an assessment after a difficult birth. But if your baby is well, feeding and growing, there is no need for treatment.
What if the paediatrician suspects a tongue-tie?
Diagnosis and the decision on frenotomy are medical. We can support your baby before and after, working on mobility and comfort, in coordination with the team.
When to see a doctor
See your paediatrician or go to A&E if your baby refuses feeds, has a fever, is floppy or very sleepy, vomits forcefully or brings up green vomit, has blood in their stools, has few wet nappies, is not gaining weight, has difficulty breathing or a bulging fontanelle.