If your child is unsettled, cranial osteopathy can be a very beneficial treatment to help them relax and develop normal sleeping patterns. Here, I will answer some of the most commonly asked questions about cranial osteopathy for babies.
What is cranial osteopathy?
Cranial osteopathy is a very gentle approach to osteopathic treatment. It uses subtle pressure to help encourage the release of stresses throughout the musculoskeletal system. This form of treatment is known as ‘cranial’ osteopathy as it often involves the head, however, other parts of the body can also be involved.
Cranial osteopathy works with the body’s involuntary mechanisms, helping to bring the natural biorhythms of the body back to a normal balance. All people are different, so I treat the individual, rather than just the problem.
Can cranial osteopathy help babies?
Cranial osteopathy may help babies and children who have experienced a difficult birth. Treatment can be very effective for helping babies who suffer from sleep disturbance, feeding difficulties, digestive problems and trapped wind, helping them to cry less and feel more settled, relaxed, and generally happier.
What happens in the first appointment?
When you bring your baby in for their first appointment, I will look into their full medical history and carry out a gentle examination to help determine the root causes of their symptoms, in order to be able to determine the best treatment plan, all of which I will talk you through. When you understand what treatment plan we will take, I can then begin cranial treatment.
At the end of the first appointment, which will last about an hour, I will make some suggestions for what you can do at home to help your baby in between sessions.
Is treatment painful for babies?
Cranial osteopathy is extremely gentle and can be pain relieving for unsettled babies. Babies usually enjoy the sensations of osteopathy and are often more relaxed following treatment.
What training do osteopaths undergo?
The title ‘osteopath’ is protected by law and osteopaths must be registered with the General Osteopathic Council to practise. Osteopaths must train for at least four years for a Bachelors degree in osteopathy. As cranial osteopathy is a specialist treatment, osteopaths must undergo further training to learn about this approach.
I completed a four-year BSc (Hons) Ost degree at the European School of Osteopathy in 2010 and have gained ten years of experience in using cranial techniques. To ensure my expertise is up to date, I continue to train and develop my skills and knowledge.
As a cranial osteopath, I have a highly developed sense of touch that helps me to identify sources of pain and discomfort.
At my practice in Balsall Common, I regularly work with babies and young children from Birmingham, and the surrounding areas of Solihull, Meriden, Kenilworth, Knowle and Dorridge.
If you have any further questions about cranial osteopathy for babies, or would like to arrange an appointment, please call me on 07542 666 022, or email farah@farahkhanosteopath.co.uk and I will be happy to help you.
