Caring for Mother and Baby

Pregnancy-related discomfort

Osteopathy supports the body during a time of tremendous change. Back pain, pelvic pain and heartburn are all common complaints during pregnancy – the result of your body changing to accommodate a growing baby. We have a range of gentle treatments to help you through this time and can ensure your pelvis is correctly aligned in preparation for birth.

Caring for your newborn

Babies are exposed to huge forces during labour. These can result in strain patterns affecting their health. During a normal birth, the baby’s skull is compressed to allow passage through the birthing canal and the neck is also exposed to torsion. These can result in sleeping and settling difficulties, which are troublesome for both mother and child.

Does your baby have a neck strain?

Babies with neck strains can be uncomfortable when put down for sleep and often prefer to be carried. It is important to check a baby for dysfunction in the upper back, neck and skull – sometimes parents will notice a baby will only turn their head one way, which may be a symptom of neck dysfunction.

Colic/Reflux

After birth, osteopaths need to check the function of several structures. One is the nerve that helps control the stomach, which may be irritated as it courses through the upper neck. Other areas are the ribs, spine and respiratory diaphragm, all of which need to be moving appropriately. Reducing the strain in these areas may help to relieve symptoms.