Parent FAQ
Is osteopathic treatment safe for babies and children?
Yes — osteopathic techniques used for babies and children are very gentle and noninvasive. Your osteopath is trained to adapt each session to suit your child’s age and specific needs.
What should my child wear to their appointment?
Loose, comfortable clothing is best. Babies may be treated in just a nappy if needed, but often your baby will be kept clothed during treatment.
How will my child feel during or after treatment?
Many babies and children find treatment relaxing and may even fall asleep during the session.
It’s normal for some children to feel a little sleepy afterwards, or occasionally more unsettled for a short time as their body adjusts.
How many sessions will my child need?
The number of treatments depends on your child’s condition and how they respond. Some issues may resolve in just a few sessions, while others may benefit from a slightly longer plan. Your osteopath will always discuss this with you and keep you informed along the
way.
Can I stay with my child during treatment?
Absolutely — parents, guardians, or a chaperone are legally required to stay with your baby or child until they reach the age of 16. We often insist on this being in place until they reach the age of 18 for their comfort and safeguarding.
What to Know for Your Child’s Appointment
Safe & Gentle
Treatment for babies and children is always gentle and adapted to your child’s age and needs.
What to Wear
Loose, comfy clothing is best. Babies can be treated in just a nappy if needed, but often they stay clothed.
How They May Feel
Many babies and children find treatment calming and may even sleep through it. Some may feel a little sleepy or unsettled afterwards — this is normal.
How Many Sessions
Every child is different — your osteopath will talk you through how many sessions may be helpful.
Parent or Guardian
A parent, guardian, or chaperone must stay with your baby or child until they’re at least 16 — and we usually insist on this up to 18 for everyone’s comfort and safety.
Young children and babies can’t always tell us when they’re in pain or feeling uncomfortable — instead, signs like excessive crying, restlessness, or general irritability often hint that something isn’t quite right.
When treating babies and young children, cranial osteopathic techniques are commonly used. These gentle, hands-on techniques work by feeling for subtle movements within the body, sometimes called the cranial rhythm or involuntary mechanism.
This gentle approach aims to reduce areas of tension in your child’s body — often around the head or spine — helping them feel more comfortable and settled.
During treatment, many babies and children find the experience calming and may even fall asleep. It’s also normal for some children to feel a little tired afterwards as their body adjusts. The number of sessions needed can vary from child to child — your osteopath will discuss a plan with you and adapt it to your child’s individual needs.