Neonatal osteopathy is a specialized practice that focuses on newborns and infants in their first few months of life. Using gentle manual techniques, osteopaths help promote health and proper development in babies, addressing common issues such as colic, sleep disturbances, and feeding difficulties.

Benefits for the Baby

• Relief from Colic: Osteopathic techniques can alleviate the discomfort caused by colic, helping the baby to relax and sleep better.
• Head Rotation and Tilt Preference: Osteopathic techniques can help correct any head rotation and tilt preferences in newborns, promoting proper alignment and improved mobility
• Improved Sleep: Deeper and more restorative sleep due to the reduction of physical tension.
• Support in Nutrition: Osteopathy can help improve sucking and swallowing, facilitating both breastfeeding and bottle-feeding.
• Promotion of General Well-Being: Timely interventions can contribute to better motor and cognitive development in the baby.

How Does a Neonatal Osteopathy Session Work?

During a session, our osteopath uses light and precise movements to assess and treat tensions or dysfunctions in the baby's body. Each treatment is personalized, safe, and designed for the baby's maximum comfort.

If you would like more information or wish to book a session, please do not hesitate to contact us.

I am here to help ensure the best start in life for your little one.

Osteopathy can be beneficial for paediatric patients, including infants, toddlers, and children. Osteopathic treatment for paediatric patients focuses on gentle techniques and approaches that are specifically tailored to their developing bodies.

Here are some key points to consider regarding osteopathy for paediatrics:

1. Birth trauma and postural issues: Osteopathic treatment can address any musculoskeletal imbalances or restrictions that may occur as a result of birth trauma or difficult deliveries. Gentle techniques can help release tension and promote optimal alignment, which may help with issues such as torticollis (neck stiffness), plagiocephaly (flat head syndrome), and difficulties with breastfeeding.
2. Musculoskeletal conditions: Osteopathy can assist in the management of various musculoskeletal conditions commonly seen in children, such as scoliosis, developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), and growing pains. Osteopathic techniques aim to address imbalances, improve joint mobility, and support healthy growth and development.
3. Respiratory and digestive issues: Osteopathy may be helpful in addressing respiratory conditions like asthma, recurrent infections, and sinus congestion in children. Additionally, osteopathic techniques can aid in promoting healthy digestion and addressing issues such as colic, reflux, and constipation.
4. Developmental milestones: Osteopathy can support the achievement of developmental milestones by addressing any musculoskeletal restrictions that may be impeding progress. This includes assisting with the development of coordination, balance, and fine motor skills.
5. Sports injuries and prevention: Osteopathy can be beneficial for children involved in sports activities. Osteopaths can provide assessment, treatment, and guidance to prevent injuries and enhance performance. Common causes could be Oshgood Schallter disease, Sever disease, Groin pain.

Osteopathic treatment for paediatric patients is typically gentle and non-invasive. Techniques used may include soft tissue manipulation, joint mobilisation, gentle stretching, and cranial osteopathy, among others. Osteopaths with training and experience in paediatric care understand the unique needs and considerations of children and adjust their techniques accordingly.

It is important to note that osteopathy should always be performed by qualified osteopaths with expertise in paediatric care. They will consider the child's age, developmental stage, medical history, and any specific concerns or conditions when providing treatment.

As with any healthcare intervention, parents should consult with their child's primary healthcare provider to determine if osteopathy is appropriate and to ensure integrated care for the child's well-being.

Understanding Pregnancy and Osteopathic Care:

Pregnancy is a transformative and unique experience for women, during which their bodies undergo significant physical and hormonal changes to support the growth and development of a baby. While pregnancy is a joyful time, it can also bring about various challenges and discomforts. Osteopathic care during pregnancy can provide valuable support in promoting a healthy pregnancy, managing common discomforts, and ensuring optimal well-being for both the mother and baby.

Challenges of Pregnancy:

Pregnancy can bring about various challenges and discomforts, including:

1. Weight Gain: As the baby grows, a woman's body weight increases, placing additional stress on the joints and muscles.
2. Postural Changes: The growing belly alters the center of gravity, leading to changes in posture and an increased curve in the lower back.
3. Pelvic Changes: The pelvis undergoes changes to accommodate the growing baby, which can contribute to pelvic pain or instability.
4. Muscle Tension and Fatigue: The added weight and postural changes can lead to muscle tension, particularly in the lower back, hips, and shoulders.
5. Musculoskeletal Changes: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to increased joint laxity and changes in posture, which may contribute to musculoskeletal discomforts such as back pain, pelvic pain, and round ligament pain.
6. Digestive Issues: Hormonal fluctuations can affect digestion and contribute to common complaints such as heartburn, constipation, and bloating.
7. Fluid Retention: Many pregnant women experience swelling and fluid retention, particularly in the ankles and feet.
8. Fatigue and Sleep Disturbances: Hormonal changes, physical discomfort, and the need for frequent bathroom visits can disrupt sleep and contribute to fatigue.
9. Emotional Well-being: Pregnancy can bring about a range of emotions, and some women may experience mood swings, anxiety, or depression.

Adult Osteopathic Care: 

Adult life brings its own set of challenges and demands on the body. From managing everyday stresses to addressing chronic pain or discomfort, osteopathic care offers holistic support aimed at enhancing your overall well-being. Whether you're dealing with musculoskeletal issues, recovering from injuries, or seeking preventive care, osteopathic treatment can play a pivotal role in restoring balance and optimizing your health.

Challenges of Adulthood: 

Adulthood presents a range of physical challenges and conditions that may benefit from osteopathic care, including:

• Musculoskeletal Pain: Whether due to work-related strain, sports injuries, or degenerative conditions, musculoskeletal pain can affect mobility and quality of life.
• Postural Issues: Prolonged sitting, poor ergonomic practices, and aging can lead to postural imbalances and discomfort.
• Stress and Tension: Mental and emotional stress can manifest physically, contributing to tension headaches, muscle tightness, and digestive issues.
• Chronic Conditions: Osteopathic care can complement conventional treatments for chronic conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and repetitive strain injuries.

Structural osteopathy is a form of manual therapy that focuses on the musculoskeletal system and its relationship to overall health and well-being. It is based on the principle that the body has the innate ability to self-regulate and heal, and that proper alignment and function of the musculoskeletal system are crucial for optimal health.

In structural osteopathy, practitioners use their hands to assess and treat various musculoskeletal conditions and dysfunctions. Employing a combination of techniques such as joint manipulation, soft tissue massage, stretching, and mobilisation aim is to address imbalances, restrictions, and misalignments in the body.

The goal of structural osteopathy is to restore and improve the function and mobility of the musculoskeletal system, which can have a positive impact on other body systems, including the nervous, circulatory, and lymphatic systems.

By addressing structural imbalances, osteopaths aim to relieve pain, promote healing, and enhance the body's natural ability to maintain health and wellness.

Structural osteopathy is often used to treat a wide range of conditions, including back pain, neck pain, joint pain, sports injuries, headaches, and musculoskeletal issues related to postural problem or repetitive strain.

Osteopaths take into account the individual's medical history, lifestyle, and specific needs to develop a personalised treatment plan.

It is important to note that osteopathy is a regulated profession in many countries, and practitioners undergo extensive training to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to practice safely and effectively.

Cranial Osteopathy, also known as Craniosacral Therapy, is a gentle form of manual therapy that focuses on the movement and balance of the craniosacral system. The craniosacral system includes the bones of the skull, the spinal column, the membranes and fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord, and the connective tissues that support these structures.

The main principle of Cranial Osteopathy is that the craniosacral system has its own inherent rhythm and that disruptions or imbalances in this rhythm can impact the overall health and functioning of the body. Practitioners believe that by gently assessing and treating these disruptions, the body's self-healing mechanisms can be activated, leading to improved health and well-being.

During a Cranial Osteopathy session, the practitioner uses light touch and subtle manual techniques to evaluate the craniosacral rhythm and identify any areas of restriction or dysfunction. They may place their hands on different parts of the body, including the head, spine, and pelvis, to facilitate the release of tension and promote the body's natural healing processes.

The goal of Cranial Osteopathy is to restore balance and harmony within the craniosacral system, as well as the body as a whole. By addressing restrictions and imbalances, it is believed that this therapy can have a positive impact on various conditions, including chronic pain, headaches, musculoskeletal issues, stress-related disorders, and neurological conditions.

It is important to note that Cranial Osteopathy is typically performed by qualified practitioners who have received specialised training in this approach. They take into account the individual's medical history, symptoms, and physical examination to develop a personalised treatment plan.

Cranio Sacral Osteopathy is generally considered safe and non-invasive, and it can be used as a standalone therapy or in conjunction with other medical or therapeutic approaches.

Fascial osteopathic treatment is a manual technique aimed at the fascial tissue, the connective tissue that envelops and supports all the muscles, bones, nerves, and organs of the body. The fascia plays a crucial role in maintaining the body's structure and functionality, but it can become tense, rigid, or dysfunctional due to trauma, stress, or poor posture.

How It Works:

During a fascial osteopathic treatment session, the osteopath uses gentle and precise techniques to assess and manipulate the fascia. This approach aims to:

• Release tensions and restrictions in the fascial tissue.
• Restore mobility and elasticity of the fascia.
• Improve blood and lymphatic circulation.
• Alleviate pain and enhance musculoskeletal functionality.

Benefits of Fascial Osteopathic Treatment:

• Reduction of chronic and acute pain.
• Improvement of posture and balance.
• Greater mobility and flexibility.
• Promotion of overall well-being and relaxation.

Fascial osteopathic treatment is suitable for people of all ages and can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, including muscle pain, postural problems, joint stiffness, and trauma. Through a personalized approach, the osteopath works to identify and treat the underlying causes of fascial dysfunctions, promoting the patient's health and well-being.

Visceral osteopathy, also known as visceral manipulation, is a specialised form of osteopathic treatment that focuses on the internal organs and their surrounding tissues. It is based on the principle that the organs have a certain degree of mobility and that restrictions or imbalances in their movement can contribute to pain, dysfunction, and overall health issues.

Visceral osteopathy views the body as an interconnected system where the organs, fascia (connective tissue), and other structures work together to maintain health. It recognises that the organs have a natural rhythm and mobility, and when this mobility is impaired, it can affect their function and create tension in the surrounding tissues.

During a visceral osteopathy session, the approach require the use of gentle, manual techniques to evaluate and treat the mobility of the organs. Applying precise, targeted pressure and manipulation to specific areas of the abdomen, chest, or pelvis the aim is to release restrictions, improve organ mobility, and restore balance within the body.

The goal of visceral osteopathy is to enhance the overall health and function of the organs, improve circulation, promote optimal organ function, and support the body's self-healing mechanisms.

It is believed that by addressing restrictions in the organs and their associated tissues, visceral osteopathy can help alleviate a variety of conditions, including digestive disorders, pelvic pain, respiratory issues, menstrual problems, and musculoskeletal pain that may have a visceral component.

Visceral osteopathy is typically performed by qualified osteopaths who have received specialised training in this area. They take into account the patient's medical history, symptoms, and physical examination to develop a treatment plan tailored to their specific needs. It is important to note that visceral osteopathy should always be conducted by a trained professional to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Osteopathic Biodynamic Treatment

Osteopathic biodynamic treatment is an advanced and gentle approach that focuses on the vital energy and intrinsic rhythms of the body to promote health and well-being. This methodology is based on the principle that the body has an innate capacity to self-regulate and heal, with the osteopath acting as a facilitator of these natural processes.

How It Works:

During an osteopathic biodynamic treatment session, the osteopath uses non-invasive techniques and a light touch to perceive and work with the body's subtle rhythms. The goal is to:

• Reconnect the patient with their own self-healing resources.
• Promote the balance and harmony of the body's vital forces.
• Stimulate deep relaxation and the release of tensions and energetic blockages.
• Improve the circulation of bodily fluids and overall homeostasis.

Benefits of Osteopathic Biodynamic Treatment:

• Reduction of stress and anxiety.
• Improvement in sleep and emotional well-being.
• Relief from chronic and acute pain.
• Strengthening of the immune system.
• Promotion of overall health and vital energy.

Osteopathic biodynamic treatment is particularly suitable for people of all ages, including infants and the elderly, and can be used to address a wide range of conditions such as musculoskeletal pain, sleep disorders, stress, and digestive issues. Through a gentle and respectful approach, the biodynamic osteopath works to support the body's intrinsic ability to achieve and maintain optimal health.

The lymphatic drainage technique is a therapeutic approach aimed at improving the flow and function of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is a network of vessels, nodes, and organs that help eliminate toxins, waste products, and excess fluids from the body. It also plays a crucial role in supporting the immune system by filtering and trapping foreign substances, such as bacteria and viruses.

The technique of lymphatic drainage involves gentle, rhythmic movements and manual manipulation of the lymph nodes and vessels to stimulate lymphatic circulation. It helps to remove metabolic waste, excess fluid, and toxins from the tissues, which can alleviate swelling, edema, and promote overall detoxification.

Here's how lymphatic drainage works:

1. Stimulation of lymphatic vessels: The therapist uses specific hand movements, such as light pressure and circular motions, to stimulate the lymphatic vessels located just below the skin's surface. These movements encourage the lymphatic fluid to flow smoothly and efficiently throughout the body.
2. Opening of lymphatic pathways: The gentle pressure and rhythmic strokes help open up the lymphatic pathways, allowing the lymphatic fluid to move more freely. This enables the body to eliminate waste materials and toxins more effectively.
3. Activation of lymph nodes: Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that filter and purify the lymphatic fluid. During lymphatic drainage, the therapist targets specific lymph node areas to activate their function, facilitating the removal of toxins and boosting the immune system.
4. Increased lymphatic circulation: The rhythmic movements and gentle pressure applied during the massage stimulate the contraction of the lymphatic vessels, enhancing the flow of lymphatic fluid. Improved circulation helps in reducing fluid retention, improving tissue oxygenation, and promoting healing.

The importance of lymphatic drainage technique lies in its numerous benefits, including:

1. Detoxification: By improving lymphatic circulation, lymphatic drainage helps the body eliminate metabolic waste, toxins, and excess fluids more efficiently. This can have a positive impact on overall health and wellbeing.
2. Reduction of swelling and edema: Lymphatic drainage can alleviate swelling, fluid retention, and edema by promoting the removal of excess fluid from the tissues. It is commonly used to treat conditions such as lymphedema, post-surgery swelling, and pregnancy-related edema.
3. Immune system support: The lymphatic system plays a vital role in immune function. By stimulating lymphatic circulation and activating lymph nodes, lymphatic drainage can enhance the body's immune response and help fight off infections.
4. Relaxation and stress reduction: The gentle, rhythmic movements involved in lymphatic drainage can induce a state of relaxation, promoting overall stress reduction and improved mental well-being.
5. Improved skin health: Lymphatic drainage can enhance the appearance and health of the skin by promoting better circulation, reducing puffiness, and enhancing the delivery of nutrients to the skin cells.

Indicated for primary or secondary lymphedema, such as when swelling occurs at a limb's root, when trunk and midline edema are present, when comfort and pain relief are required, as an adjunct to pain management, as a preventative treatment, and in cases of chronic venous insufficiency. It may also be useful as a complementary treatment for patients experiencing psychological stress and for reducing intracranial pressure in severe cerebral diseases.

There are contraindications too. General contraindications include acute cellulitis/ erysipelas, severe cardiac insufficiency, hepatic cirrhosis with abdominal fluid (ascites), unstable hypertension, renal failure, and superior vena cava obstruction. Local contraindications include untreated thyroid dysfunction, metastases, and primary tumors. 

It is not recommended for individuals with certain medical conditions, such as active infections, congestive heart failure, or deep vein thrombosis. If you're considering lymphatic drainage therapy, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional or a qualified therapist to determine if it's suitable for you.