New-borns can benefit from osteopathic treatment:
Birth is a very physical and perhaps stressful process on a baby’s body. It can cause tension or pinching in the delicate membranes that cover the brain and nervous system. Overstrain of tissues and compression of joints in the head, neck and upper back may also occur as a result. This may affect the nerves which come from the base of the skull which are responsible for body functions such as feeding, digestion and breathing, and may cause other imbalances in the rest of the body.

Such problems may well be accentuated if there has been a difficult presentation such as a very quick or perhaps a prolonged labour, a breach delivery or, if the delivery has been assisted with forceps or ventouse suction.

Osteopathic treatment is gentle, safe and effective for babies and children. Very specific, skilled, light pressure is applied where necessary to assist the natural ability of the body to release stresses and tensions.

Signs to look out for that may indicate a need for an osteopathic check up include: