Cranial Osteopathy is a gentle form of Osteopathy using the application of very skilled, specific, light pressure to releases strains and tension throughout the body. Although treatment can include the placement of the hands on the head the name Cranial Osteopathy is somewhat of a misnomer and treatment is not exclusive to the head itself.
Osteopaths trained in cranial osteopathy have completed post graduate qualifications to asses very fine movement and tension within the body. They will overlay this with detailed knowledge and understanding of the body’s structure and function
During treatment people often report a sense of movement, warmth and relaxation. Patients will often sleep well following treatment and wake up feeling refreshed.
Osteopathy for children and babies
The calm and soothing approach of Cranial Osteopathy makes it especially suitable for treating babies and children, including new-born infants. Children may develop structural problems for many reasons and those affecting the mobility and function of the body can lead to problems as the child grows and develops.
It can seem surprising that a new born can hold any tension in its body, however the pressures and strains of birth are some of the most forceful many will experience in their lives.
A baby is subject to tremendous compressive forces as the uterus contracts to push into the birth canal and out into the world. The baby has to turn and twist through the pelvis, tucking its chin to its chest which reduces the presenting diameter of the head whilst the cranial bones overlap and squeeze together. These normal processes are often complicated by breech, transverse or back to back presentations causing extra pain and dyscomfort for both mother and baby.
Babies heads and bodies are uniquely designed to withstand and mould to the strains of birth, normally these will resolve naturally through crying, suckling, yawning and stretching. However on occasion the un-moulding process is incomplete, and babies will suffer prolonged discomfort most often expressed by excessive crying, unsettled behaviour and irritability.
In their 2006 study into the effects of cranial osteopathic treatment on babies, Hayden and Mullinger found some parents perceived reduced colicky crying, improved sleep, showed less irritable behaviour and increased quiet and happy spells.
Along with any of the problems left unresolved from a difficult birth process, as children grow strains resulting from accidents, falls and injuries may occur. It is always a good idea to check with your Osteopath to make sure your child musculoskeletal system is functioning as well as it can be.
We offer a no obligation free 15 minute health assessment to all children, so don’t hesitate to get in touch for more information.
