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When should a baby first see an osteopath?

Osteopathy is a gentle method that helps a baby adapt to life outside the womb and avoid problems that could arise in the future.

Author: Dr. Elfana Suleymanova Medically reviewed
1

Newborns (0–1 month)

The optimal time for a first visit is the first weeks after birth. It is especially important to have your baby seen by an osteopath in the following cases:

  • Difficult or rapid birth
  • Cesarean section
  • Umbilical cord entanglement
  • Use of vacuum extraction or forceps
  • Head asymmetry, torticollis (twisted neck), restlessness, frequent vomiting
2

Infants (1–12 months)

  • Sleep disorders
  • Delayed motor development
  • Hypertonia or hypotonia
  • Colic, bloating, digestive problems
  • A tendency to turn the head to one side only
3

Older children (over 1 year)

  • Frequent colds, weak immunity
  • Postural disorders
  • Hyperactivity, concentration problems
  • Consequences of falls and injuries
  • Speech delay or articulation problems
We look not at where the pain is, but at where it comes from.
— Dr. Elfana Suleymanova, Center Director · Internist and osteopathic physician

Related conditions

Infant colic, gas and sleep problemsChildren’s healthDisc protrusion and degenerative disc disease (spinal osteochondrosis)Spine and postureNumbness in the hands and fingers, carpal tunnel syndromeJoints and limbsWry neck (torticollis)Children’s health

Methods we use for this topic

Pediatric and infant osteopathyOsteopathy and manual therapyCosmetic osteopathy and facial asymmetryOsteopathy and manual therapyOsteopathyOsteopathy and manual therapyVisceral osteopathyOsteopathy and manual therapy

Continue reading

Osteopathy is not suitable for everyone: contraindicationsTreatment methodsIs it true that osteopathic treatment is painful?About osteopathyWhat does an osteopath do? What are they looking for with their hands on your body?About osteopathyHow osteopathy can help ease a difficult birthWomen’s health

Sources and further reading

  1. Baby development — NHS (Böyük Britaniya)
  2. NHS Start for Life — guide for ages 0–5 — NHS (Böyük Britaniya)

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