Cranial osteopathy is a popular treatment for people who are suffering from a wide range of conditions, such as neck and back pain, muscle tension and even digestive problems. This type of osteopathy is very gentle and works to release various stresses and tensions within the body. As the treatment is so subtle, it can be used on babies.
During the birthing process, a baby’s skull is subject to enormous pressure as the baby makes its way down the narrow birth canal. The bones in the baby’s head are fairly soft and will adapt during the birth to allow the baby to pass through the birth canal. Although many babies are born with a slightly odd shaped head as a result of the birth, most will readjust to a normal shape within the first few days of life. For the few that continue to have difficulties in feeding, bringing up wind or perhaps settling into a good sleep pattern, they may find that a couple of sessions of baby cranial osteopathy would be beneficial.
During the session, the osteopath should be able to apply very light yet very accurate pressure to the baby’s skull in order to identify where the problems may stem from. It may be that the baby is experiencing compression in the base of the skull, which may be causing it problems to latch on when feeding. Alternatively it may have a diaphragm which is very slightly out of shape which can cause trapped wind and may be preventing the baby’s stomach from retaining its contents.
Baby cranial osteopathy consists of the osteopath very gently manipulating various bones and muscles to help the baby to regain its natural cranial rhythm and to therefore relieve any discomfort. Many parents find their baby will sleep well following the session, or they may find they are unsettled for a day or two before settling down into an improved feed or sleep pattern. Of course, no two babies are the same and one treatment may work well for one but not another.
Cranial osteopathy is not just for babies, it can be a great treatment for adults of all ages.
