Osteopathy can be helpful in a wide range of childhood problems, including:

• Balance and co-ordination problems
• Glue ear
• Recurrent upper respiratory tract infections
• Infant colic
• Developmental delay
• Headaches
• Constipation
• Trauma

The osteopath analyses and addresses postural, structural or mechanical factors that underlie or contribute to these conditions. It is an approach that is centred on the expression of health in a child and the factors that limit its full expression rather than simply on the condition. Management may often also involve dietary advice and exercises. The osteopathic approach to children is exceedingly gentle and generally has a calming effect.

Children benefit most from regular osteopathic check-ups to monitor the effects of growth and to resolve the effects of any trauma. This is helpful in preventing problems from developing later in life. “As the twig is bent so, so the tree inclines”!