Commonly Seen Conditions

Headaches

Can osteopathy help with headaches?

Yes! Osteopathy offers a natural, hands-on approach to relieving headaches by addressing muscular tension, postural imbalances, and restrictions in the spine and neck. Our goal is to support your body’s healing process with minimal intervention.

What types of headaches can osteopathy treat?

Osteopathy can help with:
Tension headaches caused by stress or muscle tightness
Cervicogenic headaches linked to neck or spinal issues
Certain migraines, by improving circulation and reducing tension-related triggers

How does an osteopath treat headaches?

We take a whole-body approach to treatment. Our practitioners assess your posture, movement, and lifestyle factors to determine the root cause of your headaches. Techniques may include:
• Gentle manual therapy to release tension
• Joint mobilisation to improve movement
• Soft tissue techniques to enhance circulation
• Personalised advice on posture, ergonomics, and lifestyle adjustments

Are osteopathic treatments for headaches safe?

Absolutely. Our treatments are non-invasive, drug-free, and tailored to your individual needs. We focus on restoring balance naturally while ensuring your safety and comfort.

How many sessions will I need?

Healing is a journey, and every patient is unique. Some people feel relief after one or two sessions, while others may benefit from ongoing care to prevent recurrence. Our approach is always personalised to your needs.

Asthma

What is asthma?

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition of the airways that causes breathing difficulties. Symptoms can include:

Shortness of breath
Wheezing
Chest tightness
Persistent coughing, especially at night or after exercise

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Can osteopathy help with asthma?

Yes! While osteopathy does not replace medication, it can:

Improve rib cage mobility, allowing for deeper, more efficient breathing
Reduce muscle tension in the chest, neck, and back that may restrict lung function
Enhance circulation and lymphatic drainage, supporting lung health
Alleviate stress and anxiety, which are common asthma triggers

How does osteopathy support lung function?

Each plan is tailored to your unique health goals, dietary preferences, and lifestyle, using a comprehensive assessment of your needs.

What can trigger asthma symptoms?

Asthma symptoms can be triggered by:

Allergens (dust, pollen, pet dander)
Cold air or changes in weather
Respiratory infections
Exercise
Stress and anxiety
Poor posture affecting lung expansion

Can posture affect asthma?

Yes! Poor posture especially slouching or forward head posture can compress the lungs and make breathing more difficult. Osteopathy helps correct posture, allowing for better lung expansion and oxygen intake.

Neck Pain

Can osteopathy help with neck pain?

Yes! Osteopathy is an effective, natural approach to relieving neck pain by improving posture, reducing muscle tension, and restoring proper movement in the spine and surrounding structures.

What causes neck pain?

Neck pain can stem from a variety of factors, including:

Poor posture (e.g. prolonged screen use, slouching)
Muscle tension and strain
Joint restrictions in the spine
Stress and emotional tension
Previous injuries (e.g. whiplash)
Underlying conditions such as arthritis

How does an osteopath treat neck pain?

Our practitioners take a whole-body approach to treatment, using techniques such as:

Gentle manual therapy to improve mobility
Soft tissue techniques to release muscle tension
Postural assessments to identify and correct imbalances
Joint mobilisation to restore proper spinal function
Personalised exercise recommendations to prevent future pain

Is osteopathic treatment for neck pain safe?

Yes, osteopathy is a safe, non-invasive, and drug-free approach. Our treatments are tailored to your needs and designed to support your body’s natural healing process.

How many sessions will I need?

The number of sessions depends on the severity and cause of your neck pain. Some patients experience relief after one or two visits, while others may benefit from ongoing care to prevent recurrence.

Chronic Pain Syndrome

What is Chronic Pain Syndrome (CPS)?

Chronic Pain Syndrome (CPS) is a condition where pain persists for more than three months, often without a clear injury or cause. It can affect multiple areas of the body and is frequently linked to conditions such as fibromyalgia, arthritis, or past injuries that never fully healed.

How does chronic pain affect overall health?

Chronic pain can impact both physical and emotional well-being, leading to:

Muscle stiffness and limited mobility
Fatigue and disrupted sleep
Anxiety, stress, or depression
Reduced quality of life and difficulty with daily activities

Can osteopathy help manage Chronic Pain Syndrome?

Yes! Osteopathy offers a holistic, drug-free approach to chronic pain by:

Identifying and treating areas of restriction or imbalance
Reducing muscle tension and improving circulation
Restoring joint mobility and flexibility
Supporting nervous system regulation for pain relief

What osteopathic techniques are used for chronic pain?

Treatment is tailored to each patient and may include:

Soft tissue therapy to relieve tension and improve circulation
Joint mobilisation to restore movement and function
Myofascial release to ease muscle tightness
Gentle cranial osteopathy for nervous system balance
Breathing and relaxation techniques to manage stress-related pain

Is osteopathy safe for long-term pain conditions?

Absolutely! Osteopathy is a gentle and non-invasive treatment option that focuses on long-term relief rather than temporary fixes. It’s safe for all ages and works well alongside other treatments.

Whiplash injuries

What is whiplash?

Whiplash is a neck injury caused by a sudden, forceful back-and-forth movement of the head, often resulting from car accidents, sports injuries, or falls. This can strain muscles, ligaments, and joints, leading to pain and stiffness.

Can osteopathy help with whiplash?

Yes! Osteopathy can relieve pain, improve mobility, and support recovery by reducing muscle tension, improving circulation, and restoring proper movement in the neck and spine.

What are the symptoms of whiplash?

Common symptoms include:

Neck pain and stiffness
Headaches (often starting at the base of the skull)
Shoulder and upper back pain
Dizziness or balance issues
Difficulty turning the head
Fatigue or trouble concentrating

How does an osteopath treat whiplash injuries?

Our osteopaths take a gentle, whole-body approach to whiplash recovery. Treatment may include:

Soft tissue therapy to relieve muscle tension
Joint mobilisation to restore movement in the spine
Postural assessments to prevent future strain
Gentle exercises to strengthen the neck and improve flexibility
Breathing and relaxation techniques to reduce stress-related tension

Is osteopathy safe for whiplash injuries?

Yes, osteopathic treatment is gentle, non-invasive, and drug-free, making it a safe and effective option for whiplash recovery.

Tennis Elbow

What is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis Elbow is a painful condition affecting the tendons in the outer part of the elbow, caused by repetitive strain, overuse, or excessive gripping movements. Despite its name, it’s not just tennis players who experience it—it’s also common in:

Office workers
Tradespeople (e.g. plumbers, painters, carpenters)
Musicians
Anyone engaging in repetitive hand and wrist movements

What are the symptoms of Tennis Elbow?

Common symptoms include:

Pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow
Weak grip strength, making it difficult to hold objects
Discomfort when lifting, gripping, or twisting (e.g. turning a doorknob)
Pain that may radiate down the forearm

What causes Tennis Elbow?

Tennis Elbow is caused by overuse and repetitive strain of the forearm muscles, leading to small tears and inflammation in the tendons. Risk factors include:

Repetitive hand and wrist movements
Poor ergonomics in the workplace
Lack of proper warm-up or stretching before activity
Weak or imbalanced muscles in the forearm and wrist

How can osteopathy help with Tennis Elbow?

Osteopathy takes a whole-body approach to treating Tennis Elbow by:

Reducing pain and inflammation through hands-on therapy
Improving circulation to promote natural healing
Restoring joint mobility in the elbow, wrist, and shoulder
Correcting muscle imbalances to prevent recurrence
Providing tailored exercises and ergonomic advice

What osteopathic techniques are used to treat Tennis Elbow?

Treatment may include:

Soft tissue massage to reduce tension in the forearm muscles
Joint mobilisation to improve elbow and wrist movement
Myofascial release techniques to enhance flexibility
Stretching and strengthening exercises for long-term recovery
Ergonomic and postural advice to prevent further strain

Postural Problems

How does poor posture affect my health?

Poor posture can cause a range of problems, including:

Neck, shoulder, and back pain
Headaches and tension
Reduced mobility and flexibility
Muscle imbalances and joint strain
Decreased lung capacity and energy levels

Can osteopathy help correct my posture?

Yes! Osteopathy helps by:

Improving spinal alignment
Releasing tension in tight muscles
Strengthening weak muscles
Enhancing movement and flexibility
Providing practical advice on posture, ergonomics, and lifestyle adjustments

What causes postural problems?

Common causes include:

Prolonged sitting and screen use
Poor workstation ergonomics
Weak or tight muscles from lack of movement
Carrying heavy bags on one side
Stress and tension affecting muscle function

How does an osteopath assess posture?

Golfer’s Elbow is caused by overuse and repetitive strain of the forearm flexor muscles, leading to small tears and inflammation in the tendons. Risk factors include:

Repetitive wrist and finger movements (e.g. golfing, weightlifting, typing)
Overgripping or excessive force in activities like racquet sports
Poor technique or posture, putting extra strain on the elbow
Weak or imbalanced muscles, leading to increased stress on the tendons

What treatment methods do osteopaths use for postural issues?

Osteopathic treatment may include:

Gentle manual therapy to realign the spine
Soft tissue techniques to release muscle tightness
Joint mobilisation to improve flexibility
Postural retraining to correct habits and movements
Personalised exercise plans to strengthen core and back muscles

Golfer’s Elbow

What is Golfer’s Elbow?

Golfer’s Elbow is a painful condition affecting the tendons on the inner side of the elbow, caused by repetitive stress, gripping, or overuse of the forearm muscles. It’s not just golfers who experience it—it’s also common in:

Office workers
Tradespeople (e.g. carpenters, plumbers, painters)
Tennis players and weightlifters
Anyone performing repetitive wrist and forearm movements

What are the symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow?

Common symptoms include:

Pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow
Weak grip strength, making it difficult to hold objects
Pain when bending the wrist or gripping tightly
Stiffness and discomfort that may radiate to the forearm and wrist

What causes Golfer’s Elbow?

Golfer’s Elbow is caused by overuse and repetitive strain of the forearm flexor muscles, leading to small tears and inflammation in the tendons. Risk factors include:

Repetitive wrist and finger movements (e.g., golfing, weightlifting, typing)
Overgripping or excessive force in activities like racket sports
Poor technique or posture, putting extra strain on the elbow
Weak or imbalanced muscles, leading to increased stress on the tendons

How can osteopathy help with Golfer’s Elbow?

Osteopathy takes a whole-body approach to treating Golfer’s Elbow by:

Relieving pain and reducing inflammation
Improving circulation to support the body’s natural healing
Restoring mobility in the elbow, wrist, and shoulder
Correcting muscle imbalances to prevent recurrence
Providing tailored exercises and ergonomic advice

What osteopathic techniques are used to treat Golfer’s Elbow?

Treatment may include:

Soft tissue massage to release tension in the forearm muscles
Joint mobilisation to improve elbow and wrist function
Myofascial release techniques to enhance flexibility
Stretching and strengthening exercises for long-term recovery
Postural and movement corrections to reduce strain on the elbow

Repetitive Strain Disorders

What are Repetitive Strain Disorders (RSDs)?

Repetitive Strain Disorders (also known as Repetitive Strain Injuries, RSIs) refer to pain and dysfunction caused by repetitive movements, poor posture, or overuse of specific muscles and joints. These conditions commonly affect the hands, wrists, elbows, shoulders, and neck.

What causes Repetitive Strain Disorders?

RSDs develop due to:

Repetitive movements (e.g., typing, using a mouse, playing an instrument)
Poor posture or awkward positioning for extended periods
Lack of breaks and movement during work or activities
Excessive force or strain on certain muscles and joints
Weak or imbalanced muscles, leading to compensatory stress

What are the symptoms of RSDs?

Common symptoms include:

Pain, aching, or tenderness in the affected area
Stiffness and reduced mobility
Tingling, numbness, or weakness
Swelling or inflammation
Discomfort that worsens with activity

How can osteopathy help with Repetitive Strain Disorders?

Osteopathy takes a whole-body approach to treating Repetitive Strain Injuries by:

Relieving pain and muscle tension through gentle manual therapy techniques
Correcting faulty biomechanics that cause repetitive stress on affected areas
Restoring proper joint mobility in wrists, elbows, shoulders, and spine
Addressing postural imbalances that contribute to strain patterns
Improving circulation to promote natural healing and reduce inflammation

What techniques do osteopaths use to treat RSDs?

Depending on your condition, treatment may include:

Soft tissue therapy to release tension and improve flexibility
Joint mobilisation techniques to restore movement
Myofascial release to target tight connective tissue
Postural re-education to reduce strain on affected areas
Stretching and strengthening exercises for long-term relief

Back Pain

What causes back pain?

Back pain can arise from various factors, including:

Poor posture from prolonged sitting or improper ergonomics
Muscle strain due to overuse, incorrect lifting techniques, or sudden movements
Herniated or bulging discs placing pressure on nerves
Osteoarthritis or spinal degeneration, leading to stiffness and discomfort
Sciatica, caused by nerve compression in the lower back
Stress and tension, resulting in muscle tightness
Underlying health conditions, such as osteoporosis or inflammatory disorders

How can osteopathy help with back pain?

Osteopathy is a gentle and effective approach that helps restore balance to the body by improving movement, reducing pain, and preventing future issues. Treatment may include:

Soft tissue therapy to relieve muscle tension and enhance circulation
Joint mobilisation and manipulation to restore movement and flexibility
Postural assessments to identify and correct imbalances
Exercise recommendations to strengthen muscles and improve stability
Lifestyle and ergonomic advice to help prevent recurring pain

What osteopathic techniques are used to treat back pain?

Osteopaths use a range of techniques to help relieve back pain, including:

Spinal mobilisation and manipulation to improve joint function
Myofascial release to ease muscle and connective tissue tightness
Stretching and muscle energy techniques to restore mobility
Core strengthening exercises to support the spine
Breathing and relaxation techniques to reduce tension-related pain

Can osteopathy help with chronic back pain?

Yes! Chronic back pain often results from postural imbalances, long-term strain, or underlying conditions. Osteopathy focuses on:

Identifying the root cause of persistent pain
Restoring spinal alignment to reduce pressure on nerves and muscles
Enhancing mobility to improve movement and flexibility
Providing long-term strategies to prevent flare-ups

How many osteopathy sessions will I need?

The number of sessions varies depending on the severity of pain, underlying cause, and individual response to treatment. Some patients experience relief after just a few sessions, while others may benefit from a longer-term management plan.

Shin Splints

What are shin splints?

Shin splints, or medial tibial stress syndrome, refer to pain and inflammation along the shinbone (tibia) caused by repetitive stress on the lower leg. They are common among runners, dancers, and individuals who participate in high-impact activities.

What causes shin splints?

Shin splints develop due to excessive strain on the shinbone and surrounding muscles, often resulting from:

Overuse or sudden increases in activity (e.g., running longer distances too quickly)
Improper footwear lacking adequate support
Flat feet or high arches causing uneven weight distribution
Weak or tight calf muscles placing stress on the lower leg
Hard or uneven surfaces increasing impact on the shins
Poor biomechanics or running technique

How can osteopathy help with shin splints?

Osteopathy takes a holistic approach to treating shin splints by reducing pain, improving movement, and preventing recurrence. Treatment may include:

Soft tissue therapy to release tension in the shin and calf muscles
Joint mobilisation to improve ankle and foot function
Biomechanical assessment to identify movement imbalances
Exercise prescription to strengthen the lower legs and prevent future strain
Advice on footwear, running technique, and activity modification

What osteopathic techniques are used to treat shin splints?

Osteopaths use various hands-on techniques to promote healing, including:

Myofascial release and massage to reduce muscle tightness
Stretching techniques for the calves and shins to relieve tension
Joint mobilisation to restore proper foot and ankle movement
Postural and gait analysis to correct biomechanical imbalances
Rehabilitation exercises to strengthen weak muscles

Can osteopathy help prevent shin splints from coming back?

Yes! Osteopathy focuses not only on relieving pain but also on preventing recurrence by:

Identifying and correcting movement imbalances
Improving flexibility and strength in the lower legs
Providing advice on proper footwear and training techniques
Guiding you on progressive training to avoid overuse injuries

Knee Pain

What causes knee pain?

Knee pain can result from various factors, including:

Overuse injuries (e.g., runner’s knee, patellar tendinitis)
Acute injuries (e.g., ligament sprains, meniscus tears)
Osteoarthritis (wear and tear of knee cartilage)
Poor posture or biomechanics affecting knee alignment
Muscle imbalances in the legs, hips, or lower back
Repetitive stress from sports or work-related activities

What causes shin splints?

Osteopathy takes a whole-body approach to treating knee pain by identifying the root cause and improving overall movement. Treatment may include:

Soft tissue therapy to reduce muscle tightness around the knee
Joint mobilisation to restore proper knee and hip movement
Postural and gait assessment to identify movement imbalances
Strength and stability exercises to prevent future injuries
Lifestyle and ergonomic advice to support recovery

What osteopathic techniques are used for knee pain?

Our osteopaths use various gentle, hands-on techniques, including:

Myofascial release and massage to reduce tension in the surrounding muscles
Joint mobilisation to improve knee, hip, and ankle function
Stretching techniques to increase flexibility and reduce strain
Corrective exercises to strengthen weak muscles supporting the knee
Advice on movement patterns and posture to prevent further pain

Can osteopathy help with osteoarthritis in the knee?

Yes! While osteopathy cannot reverse osteoarthritis, it can help manage pain, improve mobility, and reduce stiffness by:

Improving joint function and reducing strain on the knee
Strengthening surrounding muscles to provide better support
Enhancing circulation to promote natural healing
Offering lifestyle guidance to maintain an active life with minimal discomfort

Can knee pain be caused by other areas of the body?

Absolutely! Knee pain is often linked to issues in the hips, lower back, or feet. If your body is out of alignment, it can place excess strain on your knees. Osteopaths assess the whole body to correct imbalances and ensure long-term relief.

Wry Neck

What is wry neck?

Wry neck, also known as acute torticollis, is a condition where the neck becomes stiff, painful, and tilted to one side. It often develops suddenly and can make it difficult to turn or straighten your head.

What causes wry neck?

Wry neck can develop for various reasons, including:

Muscle spasms – sudden contractions of the neck muscles
Poor sleeping posture – sleeping awkwardly or on an unsupportive pillow
Sudden movements – quick or jerky motions that strain the neck
Prolonged poor posture – looking down at a phone or computer for too long
Joint irritation – minor misalignments or inflammation in the cervical spine
Infections – in rare cases, viral illnesses can cause muscle stiffness

How can osteopathy help with wry neck?

Osteopathy focuses on treating the root cause of wry neck, not just the symptoms. Our approach includes:

Gentle manual therapy to relieve muscle tension and improve movement
Joint mobilisation to restore normal neck alignment
Soft tissue techniques to ease spasms and reduce pain
Postural corrections to prevent recurrence
Stretching and strengthening exercises to support long-term recovery

What osteopathic techniques are used for wry neck?

Our osteopaths use safe and effective hands-on techniques, including:

Soft tissue massage to release tight neck muscles
Gentle joint mobilisation to improve spinal function
Myofascial release to reduce tension in surrounding muscles
Stretching techniques to improve flexibility and mobility
Postural advice to prevent future episodes

How long does wry neck last?

Most cases of wry neck improve within a few days to a week with proper care. Osteopathic treatment can help speed up recovery and reduce discomfort. Chronic or recurrent cases may require longer-term management to address underlying posture or spinal issues.

Heel Pain

What causes heel pain?

Heel pain can arise from various factors, including:

Plantar fasciitis – inflammation of the tissue connecting the heel to the toes
Achilles tendinitis – irritation of the Achilles tendon at the back of the heel
Heel spurs – bony growths caused by prolonged strain on foot muscles
Bursitis – inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the heel
Stress fractures – tiny cracks in the heel bone due to repetitive impact
Poor foot biomechanics – flat feet, high arches, or improper walking patterns

How can osteopathy help with heel pain?

Osteopathy focuses on treating the root cause of heel pain rather than just the symptoms. Our approach includes:

Manual therapy to relieve muscle tension and improve circulation
Joint mobilisation to restore proper movement in the foot and ankle
Soft tissue release to reduce inflammation and ease pain
Postural and gait assessment to correct biomechanical imbalances
Rehabilitation exercises to strengthen the foot and prevent recurrence

What osteopathic techniques are used for heel pain?

Our osteopaths use gentle, hands-on techniques, including:

Soft tissue massage to reduce tension in the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon
Joint mobilisation to improve foot, ankle, and lower limb function
Stretching techniques to increase flexibility and relieve strain
Corrective exercises to strengthen the foot and lower leg muscles
Postural adjustments to support proper weight distribution and movement

Can osteopathy help with plantar fasciitis?

Yes! Osteopathy can help reduce pain, inflammation, and stiffness in the plantar fascia by:

Improving foot biomechanics to reduce strain on the fascia
Releasing tight calf and foot muscles that contribute to the condition
Enhancing circulation to promote natural healing
Providing lifestyle and footwear advice to prevent flare-ups

How long does it take to recover from heel pain with osteopathy?

Recovery depends on the severity and underlying cause of the pain. Some patients feel relief after a few sessions, while chronic cases may require a longer treatment plan. Your osteopath will create a personalised recovery timeline based on your condition.

Sports Injuries

What are common sports injuries that osteopathy can help with?

Osteopathy can effectively treat a wide range of sports-related injuries, including:

Muscle strains & sprains (e.g., hamstring pulls, calf strains)
Tendon injuries (e.g., Achilles tendinitis, tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow)
Ligament injuries (e.g., sprained ankle, knee ligament issues)
Shin splints and stress fractures
Shoulder injuries (e.g., rotator cuff strain, frozen shoulder)
Back and neck pain caused by sports impact or poor posture
Overuse injuries from repetitive movement

How does osteopathy help with sports injuries?

Osteopathy goes beyond just symptom relief—it targets the root cause of the injury, ensuring full recovery and prevention of further damage. Our approach includes:

Soft tissue therapy to reduce muscle tension and improve circulation
Joint mobilisation to restore mobility and reduce stiffness
Myofascial release to release tension in deep connective tissues
Biomechanical assessments to identify movement imbalances
Exercise rehabilitation plans to strengthen weak areas and prevent re-injury

Can osteopathy speed up recovery from sports injuries?

Yes! Osteopathy promotes faster healing by improving blood flow, reducing inflammation, and enhancing mobility. We also focus on optimising movement patterns to ensure the injury heals correctly, reducing the risk of chronic pain or recurring injuries.

Do I need to stop playing sports while recovering?

It depends on the injury. In some cases, rest is necessary to allow proper healing, while in others, modifying your activity can help maintain strength and mobility without worsening the injury. Your osteopath will provide personalised guidance on when and how you can safely return to sports.

Can osteopathy help prevent sports injuries?

Absolutely! Prevention is key for athletes and active individuals. Regular osteopathic care can:

Improve joint flexibility and muscle strength
Enhance posture and movement efficiency
Identify imbalances or weaknesses before they cause injury
Reduce muscle tension and tightness that may lead to strain
Provide sports-specific exercises to keep your body strong and resilient

Sciatic Pain

What is sciatica?

Sciatic pain (or sciatica) occurs when the sciatic nerve—the longest nerve in the body—becomes irritated or compressed. This often leads to:

Sharp, burning, or shooting pain down the leg
Numbness or tingling in the lower back, buttocks, or legs
Weakness in the affected leg
Pain that worsens with sitting, bending, or prolonged standing

What causes sciatic pain?

Sciatica can be triggered by various conditions, including:

Herniated or bulging discs pressing on the nerve
Spinal misalignment or joint dysfunction
Piriformis syndrome, where the muscle compresses the sciatic nerve
Degenerative disc disease leading to nerve irritation
Postural imbalances that put stress on the lower back
Pregnancy-related changes affecting spinal alignment

How can osteopathy help with sciatic pain?

Osteopathy addresses the root cause of sciatic pain by improving spinal alignment, reducing muscle tension, and enhancing nerve function through:

Spinal and joint mobilisation to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve
Soft tissue techniques to reduce muscle tightness and inflammation
Postural correction to prevent strain on the lower back
Exercise recommendations to strengthen supporting muscles
Nerve mobilisation techniques to improve sciatic nerve function

How long does it take to recover from sciatica with osteopathy?

Recovery time depends on the severity of the condition and how long it has been present. Many patients experience significant relief within a few sessions, while chronic cases may require ongoing treatment and lifestyle adjustments. Your osteopath will provide a personalised recovery plan tailored to your needs.

Can osteopathy prevent sciatica from returning?

Yes, regular osteopathic care can help prevent recurring sciatic pain by:

Improving spinal mobility and posture
Strengthening core and back muscles to support the spine
Identifying and addressing movement imbalances
Providing ergonomic and lifestyle advice to minimise strain on the lower back

Infantile Colic

What is infantile colic?

Infantile colic is a condition characterised by excessive, frequent crying and discomfort in an otherwise healthy baby. It typically occurs in infants under three months old and can be recognised by:

Uncontrollable crying, often for more than three hours a day
Crying that occurs at the same time each day, usually in the evening
Clenching of fists, arched back, or pulling knees to the chest
Difficulty settling, even after feeding or changing
Signs of abdominal discomfort, such as bloated tummy or gas

What causes colic?

The exact cause of colic is unknown, but potential factors include:

Digestive discomfort due to an immature gut
Trapped wind or reflux causing irritation
Tension or tightness in the baby’s body from birth trauma
Oversensitivity to stimulation or an immature nervous system
Feeding difficulties, including swallowing air during feeds

How can osteopathy help with colic?

Osteopathy takes a gentle and holistic approach to ease discomfort and support the baby’s overall well-being by:

Releasing tension in the head, neck, and spine, especially after a difficult birth
Encouraging better digestion by improving mobility in the diaphragm and abdomen
Reducing discomfort from reflux and trapped wind
Calming the nervous system, helping babies settle more easily
Supporting breastfeeding and feeding posture to minimise swallowing air
Osteopathic techniques are very gentle, safe, and non-invasive, tailored specifically for newborns and infants.

Is osteopathy safe for babies?

Yes, osteopathy is very safe for babies. Our osteopaths use extremely light and gentle techniques, ensuring your baby’s comfort at all times. Treatment involves soft touch and subtle movements to encourage relaxation and better function.

How many sessions will my baby need?

Every baby is different, but many parents notice improvements after just one or two sessions. The number of treatments depends on factors such as birth history, feeding patterns, and overall health. Your osteopath will discuss a personalised plan based on your baby’s needs.