Children go through a great development in a short period of time, both physically and mentally. Usually development goes well but sometimes it is not optimal due to a variety of causes. For instance, children can suffer all kinds of loss of movement or injuries due to infections and allergies, surgery or even thumb-sucking, for instance. As a result, this can (negatively) affect their development. This is when an osteopathic treatment can often help by removing the movement restrictions and tensions, making the child feel comfortable again.
There are several complaints where an osteopath can help; for example, headaches, abdominal pain, constipation, sore throat and ear problems, eczema and allergies. In children with motor development problems and behavioural and learning problems, osteopathy can also often make a positive contribution.
Children to young adults
Every child is unique!
The body functions as a whole. If problems occur in any of the systems of development, it can affect the child's overall development. Therefore, each child requires its own and unique approach and treatment. An osteopathic treatment for a baby or child consists of gentle mobilising techniques that children generally find pleasant.
Indications children to young adults:
- allergies
- asthma
- abdominal pains
- concentration problems
- eczema
- jaw problems
- motor deficiency
- bedwetting
- constipation
- headache
- joint pain
- growing pains
- behavioural and learning problems such as hyperactivity, ADHD, ADD, dyslexia, dysplasia
- throat, nose and ear problems
- recurrent ear infections
- scoliosis (schreve back)
- sports injuries
- and so on
Treatment
The first time you visit an osteopath with your child, a comprehensive intake will take place. Here, questions will be asked about the complaints and also about any medical history and living habits of your baby or child. This is followed by an extensive physical examination of your baby or child.
The intake, examination and treatment are specifically tailored to your child's developmental stage and sensitivity. Each child is looked at individually to see what he or she can handle and needs. At the end of the intake and physical examination, the findings are discussed with you and your child. When treating children, the osteopath will use very gentle techniques to relax the body in order to eliminate loss of mobility.
The osteopath can also refer you if there is reason to do so. The treatment plan is drawn up after which treatment can begin. The period between treatments varies from one to several weeks. This gives the body's self-healing ability time to achieve a new balance.
Good preparation
It is important that your baby or child is at ease and reassured before and during the treatment.
We recommend when you come with your baby or infant to bring a favourite dummy, cuddly toy. I also advise you to bring a spare nappy and possibly a bottle of formula. Babies often allow themselves to be handled perfectly while drinking from the bottle or at the breast.
In addition, you can contribute to a calm treatment by telling your child beforehand and
make you feel that the osteopath will touch the feet, knees, pelvis, hands, arms, neck and head. And that this will not hurt.