For babies from birth to 24 months, regular osteopathic check-ups support healthy development and address specific issues that may arise due to birth processes and early growth patterns. Here’s a general guide for parents on when to consider osteopathic care for their little one:
Recommended Check-Up Times:
Newborn (0-2 weeks): Initial assessment, especially after birth experiences like assisted delivery (forceps, vacuum), shoulder dystocia, hip dysplasia, or cord issues. Early sessions may support head shape, reduce muscle tension from birth trauma, promote optimal latching for breastfeeding, and reduce fussiness.
1, 2, 4, and 6 months: Ongoing evaluations for head control, neck mobility (important for conditions like torticollis), and digestive function, including addressing issues like reflux, constipation, or colic.
9 and 12 months: Focus on crawling, sitting, and standing milestones, helping prevent or manage any hip or spinal imbalances as babies become more mobile. Support for sleep patterns may also be provided.
18 and 24 months: Assess gait, posture, and balance as walking skills advance. Continued support for digestive health, sleep, and any remaining or developing concerns about mobility or coordination.
Additional Notes:
Babies with specific challenges, including head shape concerns (plagiocephaly), torticollis, latching difficulties, or digestive and sleep issues, may benefit from more frequent sessions. Osteopathic care can be particularly supportive in addressing birth-related traumas and assisting with hip and neck alignment to promote comfortable movement and reduce discomfort.
To recap:
Each baby's needs are unique, and Osteopathic care plans will vary based on individual needs and issues. Parents can generally expect an initial series of 3-6 treatments, after which reassessment will determine the best path forward. For many babies, follow-up check-ups at development milestones can be beneficial to support healthy growth and address any emerging concerns.
These check-ups can be especially helpful for babies facing specific challenges such as latching issues, head shape asymmetries, torticollis, birth traumas, fussiness like colic, and digestive, or sleep concerns. Regular osteopathic care through these stages can provide gentle support, helping ensure each child has a comfortable and balanced start.
-- Vero Osteo
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