Osteopathy for
Children & Babies
Gentle, hands-on treatment for babies and children - easing tension from birth and supporting comfort, sleep, and development.
Treating babies and children with a very gentle form of osteopathy known as cranial osteopathy.
Cranial osteopathy is a subtle, calming approach that can help release tension in a child’s body, often stemming from pregnancy or birth.
After a difficult birth: If your baby had a very long or quick delivery, or an assisted birth (ventouse/forceps), they may have residual strains. Cranial techniques help ease those tensions and restore balance.
Feeding or digestive problems: Latching difficulties, a preference for feeding on one side, colic, reflux, and constipation are all things I commonly address gently. By relieving tension (for example around the jaw or diaphragm), babies often feed more comfortably and have happier tummies.
Sleep and settling issues: Babies who are very fussy, cry a lot, or have trouble settling to sleep sometimes have discomforts we can soothe. Cranial osteopathy can be very calming for their nervous system, helping them (and you!) sleep better.
Head shape or neck preferences: If your baby has a slight head shape asymmetry or perhaps torticollis (a preference to turning head one way), gentle treatment can help ease tight muscles and encourage freer movement.
Cranial Osteopathy for Babies:
For toddlers and children:
Osteopathy can assist with ongoing issues like recurrent ear infections or sinus issues, asthma, or even behavioral and sleep difficulties.
It’s also beneficial after the bumps and falls that are inevitable as children grow – releasing strains early can prevent bigger problems later. I recommend getting children checked if they’ve had any significant falls or if you notice postural changes as they hit growth spurts.
My approach with children is friendly and patient; I often turn the treatment into a little relaxing playtime so they feel secure.
What is a session like for a baby or child?
For babies, most of the time they can be treated while lying comfortably on a padded table, or in a parent’s arms if they prefer. I often treat while the baby is feeding and always use very light and gentle hold – no “cracking” or forceful moves at all. You might barely see my hands move, but I am listening for subtle restrictions and enabling release. Parents are always amazed at how gentle it is. After a session, it’s common for babies or children to be a bit tired as their body adjusts, or sometimes extra energetic – every child reacts in their own way, but generally parents report positive changes in the days following treatment (better sleep, calmer mood, improved feeding, etc.).
What to wear (for babies): A simple babygrow or comfy clothing are perfect, nothing special needed. If they’re feeding or napping during treatment, we’ll work around that.
Location: My clinic is in Andover at The Danebury Practice, Icknield Way, Andover, Hampshire SP10 5RG
Parking: There’s convenient, free parking on site.
Fees: £60 for a 45 minute session.
Booking: You can get in touch by phone or email to book. If you’re not sure whether cranial osteopathy is suitable for your baby, I’m happy to chat first, giving you time to decide on your next step.
What to Expect
Treating babies and children is a gentle, calm process. Most babies lie on a soft treatment table, cuddle in your arms, or feed while I work.
My touch is incredibly light, there’s no cracking or sudden movements, just subtle techniques to ease tension and support their nervous system.
If your child is older, I keep things playful and relaxed so they feel secure and at ease throughout.
Contact me
If you’d like to book an appointment, have a question, or just want to find out if osteopathy is right for you — I’d love to hear from you.
I’ll always aim to get back to you within 24 hours (Monday–Friday).