Treating Problems in Newborns and Young Children with Osteopathy
Newborns
Birth is a unique and moving event but it can at times be difficult for the baby. Complications can have consequences for the newborn: a weak suck, irritability, colic, significant regurgitation, difficulty breathing, irritating cough, asymmetry in neck or body posture as well as in the shape of the face or the head, etc. An osteopath can play a role in recovering a healthier shape and function.
Young children
Frequent ear infections are a source of concern for many parents and osteopathy can, in many cases, help children with this problem. For toddlers and young children (less than 6 or 7 years old), the Eustachian tube is more horizontal than it is in older children. As a result, when a child gets a cold, secretions that accumulate in the back of the nose can reach the middle ear more easily via the Eustachian tube due to its positioning. An osteopath can help with the drainage of the middle ear by stimulating the mobility of the temporal bones (bones in the hearing canal) and the base of the child’s head.
Frequent colds or bronchitis, asthma and other breathing problems can be controlled better with osteopathic treatments. By improving overall circulation, in particular that of the respiratory and immune systems, the body has access to all of its natural defences.
Osteopathy can also correct dysfunctions in the musculoskeletal and visceral structures that are the cause of certain mobility issues in newborns or young children indicated by the difficulty they may have in turning onto their back, rolling onto their stomach, sitting up, crawling or standing.
