What is cranial osteopathy?

Cranial osteopathy is a refined and subtle type of osteopathic treatment that encourages the release of stresses and tensions throughout the body, including the head. It is a gentle yet extremely effective approach and may be used in a wide range of conditions for people of all ages, from birth to old age. 

Very specific, skilled, light pressure is applied where necessary to assist the natural ability of the body to release stresses and tensions. Using a highly developed sense of touch and gentle technique, treatment is safe, gentle and effective.

Cranial osteopathy can be used in conjunction with other, very gentle, osteopathic techniques that complement the treatment.

What to expect during your baby’s first appointment

Your baby’s first appointment will take 1 hour. During this time Silva, our experienced Paediatric and Cranial Osteopath and Infant Feeding Coach, will take a comprehensive case history. This will include questions about your concerns, your pregnancy and health, your baby’s birth history, developmental milestones, medical history, and diet.

Silva will then ask you to undress your baby down to their nappy and perform a gentle and thorough examination of your baby’s muscles and joints throughout the body and check for reflexes that should be present at your baby’s age. She will also examine your baby using cranial osteopathy and other gentle techniques to detect any areas of tension or dysfunction that may contribute to your baby’s discomfort. Silva may also examine your baby’s cranial bones, however, this may be done during the second appointment since in Silva’s experience the first appointment can be quite tiring for your baby and they may get upset when touching the head. Therefore, the cranial osteopathy assessment and treatment during the first appointment often focusses on the body and any tension patterns found there. These tension patterns can be caused by the birth process and affect different areas in the body, including the head. 

Upon finding an area of tension or dysfunction, Silva will treat this using cranial osteopathy and / or other gentle techniques suitable for your baby.

Reactions to osteopathic treatment are variable. Often, babies are very relaxed and sleepy following their treatment. Occasionally, a baby can become unsettled. However, this is temporary and usually resolves within 24 to 48 hours.