I am in the fairly unique position of approaching the treatment as a cranial osteopath and also a feeding coach. I am able to provide a service that encompasses both advice on birth strains and patterns, i.e. to help with the structure and also how to accommodate these through latch, i.e. how they function. I work on an individual basis and adapt the treatments as required, to both Mum’s and baby’s anatomy, based on both preferences and needs. My feeding coach studies help me with the positioning of both bottle and breastfed babies, and enable me to help with the mechanical challenges some babies have with feeding. My recent Sutherland studies on the Paediatric Pathway have provided me with greater depth and knowledge in these areas.
I try to phone you first after your initial enquiry, this helps me assess your needs before meeting and then we can allow our time to focus on assessment and treatment. Treatments consist of an assessment of babies, sometimes an assessment of tongue function, (I am not able to diagnose a tongue tie and will refer.) Neck tension, any moulding or flat spots on the head and any asymmetry and/or favouring one side more than the other. I generally get your baby to feed in the session to allow me to assess and advise with latching and positioning. I often recommend exercises and different ways of moving your baby, in a way that assists their growth and development, and works with their preferences. I can assess their reflexes and again refer to on as necessary. I also recommend different feeding positions with bottle feeding, this helps babies become more efficient and comfortable if they are showing signs of discomfort.
Cranial osteopathy can be helpful throughout all stages of childhood, providing gentle support and unwinding of tissues, particularly after a traumatic birth, growth spurts or when they are just not quite themselves.