Sometimes the birth process may be physically traumatic for the baby which can place strain on certain areas of the baby (shoulders, neck, jaw, head). Osteopathic examination may help to identify and treat the areas as well as provide parents with advice.
If your child requires further breastfeeding support we are more than happy to refer you a local Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) as we recognise the importance of a collaborative team approach to give you the best care possible.
All our staff undertake continued education in manual paediatric care, pregnancy care and lactation support and information.
An abnormal shape of an infant skull may be referred to as plagiocephaly. Often this involves the flattening of one side of the back of the head. The cause of this may be due to the way the foetus was positioned in the abdomen or may be the result of the nature of labor and delivery.
Consequently it is due to pressure placed upon the soft and malleable skull. This is commonly referred to as primary plagiocephaly. Secondary plagiocephaly develops after birth and is diagnosed later. Babies may also present with torticollis. Torticollis is a shortening of neck muscles which creates the head and neck to be tilted to one side.
Premature babies have an increased risk of developing plagiocephaly, as the bones that make up the cranial vault are very soft and malleable. A prolonged or difficult delivery, perhaps also with the use of forceps or assistance may lead to an altered shape in the head due to the forces of birthing.
The number of osteopathic treatment depends on the nature and severity of the condition.
Often it is encouraged that the parents continue to reposition the baby’s head to avoid lying on the flat side for a prolonged time. Tummy time may also be encouraged and safe baby-wearing ideas discussed.
Growing pain in children and adolescents is muscular pain most commonly along the calf, at the front or behind the knee. They can involve both legs. It often presents in children between the ages of 3-5 years and 8-11 years. Both boys and girls may be affected.
Symptoms may include:
Possible causes of growing pains:
Osteopathic treatment may help promote joint range of movement, stretch tight muscles and give exercises to help treat the affected areas. Heat packs and gentle massage to the affected muscles may be useful to relax the muscles. We may provide advice regarding correct posture and assess the biomechanics of the foot, knees, hips and spine.
