Gentle Osteopathic Care for Babies | Newborn Osteopathy
Birth is one of the most important moments in a baby’s life—but it can also be physically intense. Long labour, fast labour, or assisted delivery using vacuum extraction or forceps can place extra stress on a newborn’s head, neck, and body.
While these interventions are often medically necessary and life-saving, they can sometimes contribute to subtle strains that affect a baby’s comfort, feeding, and early development.
Manual osteopathy offers a gentle, safe way to help newborns recover and thrive.

During delivery, a baby’s skull and spine undergo large amounts of pressure to pass through the birth canal. Most babies adapt quickly, but certain factors can increase tension.

Extended pressure from contractions may cause:
• Difficulty settling or excessive fussiness
• Latching or breastfeeding issues
• Neck or jaw tension
• Limited neck rotation

Rapid delivery can cause:

• Overstimulation
• Tight neck and shoulder muscles
• Difficulty calming

Vacuum extraction applies suction to the baby’s head. Possible effects include:
• Head swelling or bruising
• Flattened areas on the skull
• Neck stiffness
• Irritability from cranial strain

Forceps guide the baby out by applying pressure around the head. This may lead to:

• Facial bruising
• Jaw tightness
• Skull asymmetry
• Restricted head turning

Though it avoids the birth canal, C-section birth creates its own stresses:
• Sudden pressure changes
• Reduced fluid compression of the lungs
• Handling pressure on the ribs and head

Manual osteopathy uses extremely gentle techniques— often no more than the pressure of a fingertip—to help a baby’s body unwind from birth stresses.

• Releases tension from vacuum or forceps pressure
• Helps improve sleep and relaxation
• Supports nervous system regulation

• Encourages symmetrical head turning
• Reduces stiffness contributing to breastfeeding issues

• Encourages symmetrical head turning
• Reduces stiffness contributing to breastfeeding issues

• Supports posture, comfort, and early motor development

Most babies relax during treatment, and improvements may be noticeable within a few sessions.

You may want to book a newborn osteopathic session if:

• Your baby was born with vacuum or forceps
• Labour was long, difficult, or very fast
• Your baby shows head preference to one side
• Breastfeeding is uncomfortable or challenging
• You notice head asymmetry or flat spots
• Your baby seems tense, fussy, or uncomfortable
• Your baby was born by C-section

Early care helps prevent small issues from developing into long-term patterns.

Birth is a powerful physical event, and every baby experiences it differently. If vacuum, forceps, or challenging labour were part of your birth story, it’s normal for your newborn to carry some tension.

Manual osteopathy is a complementary therapy and does not replace medical care. The information provided in this article is educational and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your pediatrician or healthcare provider if you have concerns about your baby’s health or development.

It’s common for babies to spit up occasionally, but when your little one seems to be in pain, arching their back, crying during or after feeds, or refusing to eat, you may be dealing with more than just typical infant reflux. Understanding the difference between normal spitting up and problematic reflux—and knowing how to help, can make all the difference for your baby’s comfort and your peace of mind.

Most babies spit up, it’s usually nothing to worry about. Here’s how to tell the difference:

Normal Spitting Up:

• Small amounts of milk come up easily, often with a burp.
• Baby is generally comfortable, happy, and gaining weight well.
• Usually improves as baby grows and begins sitting up.

Reflux (GER or GERD):

• Frequent, forceful spit-up or vomiting.
• Signs of discomfort: crying, arching the back, grimacing, or refusing feeds.
• Difficulty sleeping, frequent waking, or congestion.
• May be associated with poor weight gain.

Reflux often occurs because the muscle at the top of the stomach (the lower esophageal sphincter) is still immature and may not close fully, allowing stomach contents to flow back up. Other factors that can contribute include:

• Tension in the Diaphragm: The diaphragm muscle has an opening for the esophagus. Tension here can put pressure on the stomach and contribute to reflux.
• Birth Strain: Physical compression during delivery—especially with forceps, vacuum, or cesarean section—can create tension in the neck, vagus nerve (which regulates digestion), or cranial base.
• Food Sensitivities: In some cases, reflux may be worsened by sensitivities to proteins in formula or foods in a breastfeeding parent’s diet.
• Posture and Positioning: Lying flat most of the time can make it easier for stomach contents to travel upward.

Osteopathy offers a gentle, drug-free approach to addressing the physical tensions that may be contributing to your baby’s reflux. Using subtle, precise hands-on techniques, an osteopath can:

1. Release Diaphragm Tension: Gentle mobilization of the diaphragm can reduce pressure on the stomach and improve the function of the esophageal opening.
2. Calm the Vagus Nerve: This nerve plays a key role in digestion. Releasing tension in the neck and cranial base can help regulate digestive function and reduce reflux symptoms.
3. Ease Cranial and Spinal Strain: Improving mobility in the skull and spine can support overall nervous system balance and digestive comfort.
4. Support Overall Relaxation: Many babies hold tension in their abdomen when experiencing reflux. Gentle techniques can help them release this tension, reducing pain and irritability.

Parents often notice improvements in their baby’s comfort, feeding, and sleep after treatment, and many babies even spit up less frequently.

• Keep Baby Upright: Hold your baby vertically for 20-30 minutes after feeds.
• Frequent, Smaller Feeds: Offer smaller amounts more often to avoid overfilling the stomach.
• Burp Gently: Take breaks during feeds to burp your baby.
• Elevate the Crib: Place a firm pillow or towel under the head of the mattress to create a slight incline (always ensure baby is placed on their back to sleep).
• Consider Diet: If breastfeeding, talk to a healthcare provider about temporarily eliminating common irritants like dairy or caffeine.

1. Pizzolorusso, G., et al. (2011).Effect of osteopathic manipulative treatment on gastrointestinal function and length of stay of preterm infants: a randomized clinical trial. Journal of the American Osteopathic Association, 111(5), 330-338.
2. Lanaro, D., et al. (2017).Osteopathic manipulative treatment showed reduction of length of stay and costs in preterm infants. Journal of Osteopathic Medicine, 117(6), 320-329.
3. D’Alessandro, G., et al. (2020).Osteopathic manipulative treatment in infants with postural plagiocephaly and gastrointestinal symptoms: A pilot study. Journal of Osteopathic Medicine, 120(5), 308-315.
4. Hammond, R. (2017).The role of the diaphragm in pediatric gastroesophageal reflux. Journal of the American Osteopathic Association, 117(5), 310-316.

Breastfeeding is often described as a natural and beautiful experience, but for many new parents, it can be unexpectedly challenging. If you’re struggling with pain, frustration, or uncertainty during feeds, you’re not alone. Difficulty with latching is one of the most common reasons parents seek support, and often, the root cause may be physical tension in your baby that osteopathy can gently address.

While every baby is unique, certain issues frequently arise:

• Shallow or Painful Latch: Baby struggles to take enough breast tissue into their mouth, causing pinching, cracking, or bleeding.
• Clicking Sounds During Feeding: Often indicates a break in suction, potentially due to tongue or jaw tension.
• Fussiness or Pulling Away: Baby may seem frustrated, cry at the breast, or frequently unlatch.
• Poor Weight Gain: Inefficient milk transfer can affect growth.
• Long or Frequent Feeds: Baby feeds for extended periods yet seems unsatisfied afterward.

Many latching difficulties stem from physical restrictions that limit your baby’s ability to open their mouth widely, coordinate sucking and swallowing, or maintain a secure seal. These may include:

• Tongue-Tie (Ankyloglossia) or Lip-Tie: Restricted movement of the tongue or lip due to tight tissue.
• Tension in the Jaw (TMJ) or Neck: Often related to birth positioning or delivery, making it uncomfortable for baby to turn their head or open their mouth fully.
• Cranial Strain: Subtle misalignments or compression in the skull (from birth) can affect nerves that control sucking and swallowing.
• Tightness in the Shoulders or Upper Back: This may impact how baby positions themselves during feeding.

Osteopathic care takes a whole-body approach to identifying and releasing the physical tensions that may be interfering with breastfeeding. Using gentle, precise hands-on techniques, an osteopath can:

1. Release Jaw and Tongue Tension: Improve mobility of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and ease restrictions around the hyoid bone and muscles that control tongue movement.
2. Address Neck and Shoulder Tightness: Help baby achieve a more comfortable, aligned position during feeding.
3. Ease Cranial Restrictions: Encourage balanced movement of cranial bones and relieve pressure on nerves involved in sucking and swallowing.
4. Support Diaphragm and Digestion: Improve overall comfort, which can reduce fussiness and reflux during or after feeds.

Treatment is safe, gentle, and tailored to your baby’s specific needs. Many parents notice improvements in latch, feeding efficiency, and comfort—for both baby and themselves—after just a few sessions.

An osteopathic assessment for breastfeeding issues may include:

• Discussion of your birth experience, feeding history, and specific challenges.
• Observation of your baby’s movement, posture, and oral function.
• Gentle evaluation of your baby’s head, neck, jaw, and body for areas of tension.
• Soft, rhythmic techniques to release restrictions and support optimal function.
• Practical advice for positioning and soothing your baby at home.

While professional support is often essential, these strategies may help:

• Experiment with Positions: Try laid-back breastfeeding, cross-cradle hold, or side-lying to reduce pressure on tense areas.
• Practice Tummy Time: Strengthens neck and shoulder muscles, supporting better feeding posture.
• Gently Massage Your Baby’s Jaw: Using a clean finger, make small circular motions along their jawline to encourage relaxation.
• Seek Lactation Support: A certified lactation consultant (IBCLC) can provide tailored guidance and assess for ties.

1. Fraval, M. (2019).Osteopathic management of birth-related cranial and cervical strain in infants with feeding difficulties. International Journal of Osteopathic Medicine, 32, 27-33.
2. Miller, J. E., et al. (2009).Cranial strain patterns and breastfeeding difficulties. Journal of the American Osteopathic Association, 109(8), 432-434.
3. Vismara, L., et al. (2021).Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment of the Occiput Influences Suckling and Breastfeeding. Journal of the American Osteopathic Association, 121(5), 451-460.
4. Herzhaft-Le Roy, J., et al. (2017).Efficacy of an osteopathic treatment coupled with lactation consultations for infants’ biomechanical sucking difficulties. Journal of Human Lactation, 33(1), 165-172.

As a parent, you notice every little detail about your baby—from the curve of their smile to the way they tilt their head. But what happens when you notice your baby consistently tilting their head to one side or developing a flat spot on their skull? These may be signs of torticollis and plagiocephaly, two common but often misunderstood conditions in infants. Understanding these issues early can make a significant difference in your child’s comfort, development, and long-term well-being.

Torticollis (also called “wry neck”) is a condition where an infant’s neck muscle (the sternocleidomastoid) is tight or shortened, causing the head to tilt toward one side and turn toward the opposite side.

Plagiocephaly (often called “flat head syndrome”) refers to asymmetry or flattening of the skull, often resulting from prolonged pressure on one part of the head.

These two conditions frequently occur together. A baby with torticollis may prefer one head position, leading to persistent pressure on the same part of the skull and eventually causing plagiocephaly.

For Torticollis:

• Head consistently tilted to one side and turned to the opposite side
• Difficulty turning their head fully in both directions
• Preference for looking over one shoulder
• Asymmetrical neck movement or stiffness
• Sometimes, a small lump or tight band felt in the neck muscle

For Plagiocephaly:

• Flattening on one side or the back of the head
• Asymmetrical appearance of the ears, forehead, or eyes
• Uneven hair wear or lack of hair in one area
• Resistance to changing head position during sleep or play

• Positioning in the Womb: Crowding or restricted movement during pregnancy can contribute to muscle tightness.
• Birth Trauma: Difficult deliveries (e.g., use of forceps or vacuum extraction) may strain neck muscles or cranial bones.
• Back Sleeping: While safe for reducing SIDS risk, always sleeping on the back can increase pressure on one part of the skull.
• Limited Tummy Time: Lack of varied positions during awake hours can exacerbate both conditions.

Left unaddressed, torticollis and plagiocephaly can lead to:

• Delayed motor skills (rolling, crawling, sitting)
• Jaw misalignment or feeding difficulties
• Visual or auditory imbalances due to skull asymmetry
• Persistent postural imbalances

The good news: both conditions are highly treatable, especially when caught early.

Osteopathic treatment offers a gentle, whole-body approach to addressing torticollis and plagiocephaly. Rather than focusing solely on the neck or head, osteopaths assess how tension in one area may be affecting others. Using subtle, hands-on techniques, they can:

1. Release Neck Muscle Tension: Gentle stretching and soft tissue mobilization can improve flexibility and reduce tightness in the sternocleidomastoid muscle.
2. Address Cranial Restrictions: Delicate cranial techniques encourage natural movement of the skull bones, helping reshape the head and relieve pressure.
3. Improve Overall Mobility: By ensuring free movement in the spine, shoulders, and hips, osteopathy supports balanced development and prevents compensatory patterns.
4. Enhance Nervous System Function: Releasing tension around nerves that supply the neck and head can improve comfort and mobility.
5. Guide Home Care: Parents receive tailored advice on positioning, stretches, and activities to support progress between sessions.

Osteopathy is safe, non-invasive, and drug-free—making it an ideal option for even the youngest infants.

• Encourage Tummy Time: Start with short, frequent sessions to strengthen neck and shoulder muscles.
• Varied Positions: Alternate the direction your baby lies in the crib and during play.
• Limit Time in Containers: Reduce use of car seats, bouncers, and swings when not necessary.
• Engage with Sight and Sound: Use toys, voices, and light to motivate your baby to turn their head in both directions.

1. Lessard, S., et al. (2011).The impact of osteopathic treatment on infants with deformational plagiocephaly. Journal of the American Osteopathic Association, 111(6), 372-378.
2. Xia, T., et al. (2020).The Efficacy of Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment in Addition to Standard Care for infants with Positional Plagiocephaly: A Systematic Review. Journal of Osteopathic Medicine, 120(9), 595-606.
3. D’Alessandro, G., et al. (2020).Osteopathic manipulative treatment in infants with postural plagiocephaly and gastrointestinal symptoms: A pilot study. Journal of Osteopathic Medicine, 120(5), 308-315.
4. Cabrera, M. N., et al. (2022).The Role of Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment in the Management of Congenital Muscular Torticollis: A Systematic Review. Journal of Osteopathic Medicine, 122(3), 147-157.

As a new parent, listening to your baby cry can be heart-wrenching, especially when the crying seems endless and inconsolable. Colic, often described as excessive crying in an otherwise healthy infant, affects up to 1 in 5 babies. While it typically resolves on its own by 3-4 months of age, the distress it causes families can be overwhelming. Understanding the potential causes and solutions can help you navigate this challenging phase with greater confidence and compassion.

Colic is not a diagnosis but a pattern of behaviour characterized by:

• Intense crying for more than 3 hours a day
• Crying occurring more than 3 days a week
• Symptoms lasting longer than 3 weeks
• Crying often peaking in the evening hours

These episodes may be accompanied by clenched fists, arched backs, flushed faces, and difficulty soothing—even when all immediate needs (hunger, diaper change, comfort) have been met.

The exact cause of colic remains unknown, but several factors may contribute:

1. Digestive Immaturity: An infant’s digestive system is still developing, which can lead to gas, reflux, or uncomfortable spasms.
2. Neurological Overstimulation: Babies are learning to process sensory input (sound, light, touch), which can sometimes overwhelm their nervous system.
3. Microbiome Imbalance: Early gut health may influence discomfort and crying.
4. Birth-Related Tension: Physical strain during delivery (especially with forceps, vacuum, or rapid birth) can create subtle tensions in a baby’s skull, spine, or diaphragm, contributing to discomfort.

• While there’s no one-size-fits-all cure, these approaches may help:

  • Hold and Sway: Gentle motion—like rocking or carrying your baby in a front pack—can be calming.
  • White Noise: Sounds mimicking the womb (e.g., a fan, humidifier, or white noise machine) may provide comfort.
  • Tummy Time: Supervised time on their tummy can relieve gas and strengthen core muscles.
  • Warm Baths: Warm water can ease tension and distract from discomfort.
  • Check Feeding Technique: If bottle-feeding, try a slower-flow nipple. If breastfeeding, assess latch with a lactation consultant.

Consult your pediatrician if:

• Your baby has a fever, isn’t gaining weight, or shows signs of dehydration.
• The crying is accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy.
• You’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or unsure how to cope.

When traditional soothing methods aren’t enough, osteopathy can provide a gentle, drug-free option for managing colic. Osteopathic practitioners are trained to identify subtle physical tensions—particularly in the head, neck, diaphragm, and abdomen—that may contribute to digestive discomfort or nervous system overload.

Using light, precise manual techniques, osteopathy can:

• Release tension in the vagus nerve (which regulates digestion).
• Improve mobility of the diaphragm and stomach.
• Ease cranial strain that might irritate nerves involved in gut function.
• Calm the nervous system to help babies self-regulate.

Many parents report reduced crying, improved sleep, and easier feeding after osteopathic treatment. By supporting the body’s natural ability to relax and heal, osteopathy addresses potential underlying causes of colic—not just the symptoms.

1. Carr, A., et al. (2020).The effect of osteopathic manipulative therapy on infantile colic: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 48, 102255.
2. Dobson, D., et al. (2012).Manipulative therapies for infantile colic. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 12, CD004796.
3. Pizzolorusso, G., et al. (2014).Effect of osteopathic manipulative treatment on length of stay of preterm infants: a randomized controlled trial. BMC Pediatrics, 14, 191.
4. Hayden, C., & Mullinger, B. (2006).A preliminary assessment of the impact of cranial osteopathy for the relief of infantile colic. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 12(2), 83-90.