Pediatric Care & Osteopathy

Osteopathy recognizes the particular stresses on the body that children might experience as they grow from babies to teenagers and has developed an approach to work with children of all ages. Stress associated with birth, childhood accidents and falls, or rapid growth changes may create or contribute to physical stresses on the growing body.

Our osteopaths work to assist the child to adapt to growth-related changes and aid in the management of a range of musculoskeletal problems.

Our session will include a thorough case history and  examinations before discussing our findings and management plan with you. This may include referral to your doctor or other health professionals as appropriate.

Osteopaths with a focus on paediatrics see a range of patient groups, including but not limited to:

• Families seeking information on normal growth and development of babies
• Babies needing assistance after birth
• Toddlers
• Children needing rehabilitation after injury or post- surgery
• Children with chronic conditions, other physical impairments, or difficulties relating to their growth, development, postures or movement.
• “Flat Head” or plagiocephaly
• Torticollis or “wry neck”
• Neck preference - my baby seems to turn their head only one way
• Restlessness or irritability – my baby appears uncomfortable
• The effects of a difficult or traumatic birth
• Feeding and latching issues – my baby doesn’t open their mouth wide enough
• Turned in feet
• Lack of movement in arms and/or Legs
• Congestion – my baby sounds noisy when they breathe
• Constipation – my baby is grunting and uncomfortable trying to poo or pass wind
• Shoulder dystocia – after the head is delivered vaginally the shoulders are restricted in the mothers pelvis
• After medical care eg my baby appears stiff after wearing a brace for feet, hips, head.
• Lip and tongue tie Assessment and Management.
• Orofacial Myology for Children

Please bring your maternal and child health record or birth history to your appointment if you remember.  

Your osteopaths will commonly work and liase with other health professionals in the care of your baby such as Speech Pathologists. OT's, MCHN etc. 

Preschool Aged Children

• Co-ordination and Gross/Fine Motor Skills Assessment
• Post Fall/injury assessment and treatment 
• Trauma - Accidents, bumps and bruises.
• Gait and walking abnormalities

Toddlers

• In toeing, Altered gait patterns
• Tripping when walking or running - Barefoot or Shoes
• Unusual movement patterns, or Movements you aren't sure about
• Falls, traumas, Sprained ankles, Back Pain etc