What is paediatric osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a form of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) that focuses on the musculoskeletal system, and its connection to general, overall health. According to its practitioners (known as osteopaths), keeping the bones, muscles, ligaments and connective tissue working together smoothly is key to a person's health.

Massage, moving, stretching, and other physical manipulation of the muscle, tissue, and bones are used to alleviate pain and treat medical conditions.

According to the NHS and NICE, some evidence suggests osteopathy may be of use for treating some musculoskeletal pain and sports injuries, although research is ongoing to fully understand how it can be used to treat other conditions, and the benefits to be found in the practice.

Paediatric osteopathy involves very gentle and respectful osteopathic techniques on children, in an attempt to address and solve various problems that prevent the proper functioning of the organs and the resulting symptoms, such as pain, sleep problems, and cramps, among others, and is performed by specialist paediatric osteopaths.

Why is paediatric osteopathy performed?

Paediatric osteopathy is purported to treat many conditions, from musculoskeletal issues to gastroenterological issues. It has been claimed that it can be used to treat colic (babies crying), glue ear and asthma. However, these claims are not supported by scientific evidence or clinical trials, with the exception of some limited evidence of osteopathic therapies helping to manage certain musculoskeletal issues, such as sports injuries and joint pain.

What does paediatric osteopathy consist of?

The use of paediatric osteopathy is always carried out manually, with very gentle techniques, in which the osteopath places their hands on different parts of the body of the baby or child, using massage and stretching techniques to try to relax damaged structures and tissues to help them heal.

If you would like to book an appointment with a paediatric osteopathic specialist, visit Top Doctors.