Becoming a parent often comes with lots of questions, especially when your baby seems uncomfortable, unsettled or simply not quite themselves.
Many parents aren’t always sure when it might be appropriate to seek osteopathic support, or what happens during an appointment.
At Balanced Motion Clinic in Poole, we offer gentle paediatric osteopathy appointments for babies, young children and families.
Why do parents bring their baby to an osteopath?
Parents may seek osteopathic support for babies experiencing:
- Feeding difficulties or latch challenges
- Tension after birth
- Preference for turning their head to one side
- Difficulty settling or general restlessness
- Discomfort during feeds
- Digestive discomfort or excessive wind
- Reflux symptoms
- Colic symptoms
- Flat head concerns or positional preferences
- General stiffness or body tension
- Difficulty getting comfortable during tummy time
Some parents also choose to bring their baby in for a check following a long labour, assisted delivery or simply because they want reassurance.
Every baby is different, and appointments are always tailored to your concerns.
What happens during a baby osteopathy appointment?
Your first appointment begins with a full case history where we discuss:
- Pregnancy history
- Birth history
- Feeding
- Sleep
- Development
- Medical history
- Your current concerns
We then carry out a gentle assessment of your baby’s movement, comfort and general function.
If treatment is appropriate, this is always gentle and tailored to your baby.
Parents remain present throughout the appointment and there is always time to ask questions.
Is osteopathic treatment gentle for babies?
Yes — treatment for babies is very gentle and adapted to their age, comfort and needs.
Our appointments are calm, supportive and designed to ensure both parent and baby feel comfortable throughout.
When should I speak to my GP or health visitor?
Osteopathy should never replace medical care.
If your baby is unwell, has feeding difficulties affecting weight gain, persistent vomiting, breathing concerns or anything you are worried about medically, please speak to your GP, midwife, health visitor or appropriate healthcare professional.
If we feel your baby needs further medical support, we will always advise you appropriately.
Paediatric osteopathy in Poole
At Balanced Motion Clinic, paediatric appointments are provided by Rianne Lutchmaya, registered osteopath and co-owner of Balanced Motion Clinic.
Rianne has completed additional postgraduate training in paediatric osteopathy and is currently expanding her expertise in infant feeding support.