As parents, we want nothing more than to see our babies happy, healthy, and comfortable. At Three Peaks Pediatrics and Lactation, we understand that the journey of parenthood is filled with new experiences and questions. One topic that often comes up is how to help a baby who seems unsettled, has difficulty with feeding, or struggles with certain movements. This is where gentle osteopathic care can be a wonderful, non-invasive option.

Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) is a hands-on approach to healthcare that focuses on the interconnectedness of the body. Osteopathic physicians, or DOs, are fully licensed medical doctors who receive additional training in the musculoskeletal system. They use a gentle, holistic approach to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions by addressing the body’s structure to improve its function.

For babies, OMT is incredibly gentle. It involves subtle, low-force techniques to help release tension, improve mobility, and restore balance within the body. The goal is to help your baby’s body work as efficiently as possible, allowing them to feel more comfortable and thrive.

Babies experience a lot during pregnancy and birth, even a seemingly straightforward delivery can be a physically demanding process. The pressures of pregnancy, labor, and delivery can sometimes create subtle strains or tensions in a baby’s body, particularly in the head, neck, and spine. These tensions can sometimes contribute to common infant challenges, such as:

Feeding Difficulties: A baby might have trouble latching, sucking, or swallowing due to tension in the jaw, neck, or head. Releasing this tension can make feeding easier and more comfortable for both baby and parent.

Persistent Crying and Fussiness: If a baby seems uncomfortable and is crying more than usual, it could be due to a physical strain. Gentle osteopathic care can help alleviate discomfort and promote a sense of ease.

Limited Head or Neck Movement: If you notice your baby prefers to turn their head to one side or seems to have difficulty looking in a certain direction, it could be due to muscle tension or a structural restriction. OMT can help restore full range of motion.

Torticollis or Plagiocephaly (Flat Head Syndrome): These conditions are often related to muscle tightness or positioning. Osteopathic treatment can be a key part of the comprehensive care plan to help improve symmetry and head shape.

General Discomfort and Restlessness: Sometimes, a baby just seems unsettled. By addressing the root cause of physical tension, OMT can help your little one feel more relaxed and at peace.

We know that as parents, your baby’s safety is your top priority. It’s ours, too. The osteopathic techniques used on infants are specifically designed to be extremely gentle and non-invasive. Dr Johnson uses a light touch, often compared to the weight of a coin, to assess and treat your baby. The experience is typically calming for the baby, and many babies even fall asleep during a session!

If you have questions about whether osteopathic care might be right for your baby, we encourage you to talk with one of our pediatrician. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and resources to help your little one thrive from the very beginning.