I've had the privilege of pleasure of treating babies and children for 43 years in private practice in addition to volunteering at the Osteopathic Centre for Children (OCC) in London in the early 90's and, at a branch of the OCC in Manchester around 2010. I've also studied Paediatrics with the Sutherland Cranial College of which I am a member (MSCCO). I'm trained to screen for medical conditions and, with your permission, can refer babies and children onto a relevant health care practitioner if required, for example, GP or Health Visitor.
Babies and children are treated using Cranial Osteopathy. Initially I take a detailed case history covering your concerns about your child's health as well as asking you about his or her birth, general health and development.If there is anyhting you would prefer not to discuss in front of your child then please contact me beforehand.
Examination follows which includes observation and, in some cases, developmental tests as well as careful physical examination. If treatment is found to be appropriate, then the cranial osteopathic techniques used are safe and gentle. The soothing and calming nature of the treatment can be relaxing for children. I'll discuss my findings and treatment with you and make a plan for the number of sessions which may be required. This depends on the individual child and the nature of the problem.
The newness of the situation can mean that children need your help in keeping them entertained. I have one or two toys in the practice room to help your child feel at home but it would be helpful if you can bring toys or books as you know what will keep your child content. You can also bring a dummy or a bottle or snack.
Any child under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. It is best if other siblings are not present to allow you to focus on the child being treated and to help to keep the room calm in order to get the best out of the session.
