Treatment for Mothers and Babies
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Pregnancy Clinic
Clinic for expectant mothers
Pregnancy is a time for growth and adaptation to meet both the demands of a growing baby and the physiological changes associated with the trimesters. Attention to posture and pelvic dynamics are important in maintaining movement and comfort in pregnancy. Osteopathy also has a role in birth preparation and we work with our patients to optimise the sacral mechanics required to expand the pelvic outlet for uncomplicated delivery.
Expectant mothers must adapt to the softening of ligaments, weight increase, increase in breast tissue and alterations in posture. While most pregnancies proceed without concern, others suffer excess pressures on the hips, spine, and pelvis as well as organs such as the gallbladder and bladder, making for an uncomfortable pregnancy. In later pregnancy, growth of the baby under the ribs can affect breathing mechanics. Some babies have an unusual lie. Breech, transverse and back-to-back are all common, requiring more complex adaptations and, where necessary, interventions.
Common pregnancy complaints include pelvic girdle pain, separation of the symphysis pubis (SPD) and sciatica. Reduced mobility and difficulties in finding a comfortable sleeping position can also cause problems. Osteopathy may help to relieve painful symptoms and train the body into a pattern where the body accommodates growth, rather than fights against it.
Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in treating morning sickness amongst other pregnancy related complaints
We may prescribe yoga-based exercises for pregnancy and birth preparation as part of your treatment plan
Post-natal Clinic
Clinic for those who have given birth in the last 18 months
The post-natal period is one of recovery and adaptation to meet the demands of a growing baby. Attention to posture and pelvic dynamics are important.
Pregnancy history and birth experience are of significance in post-natal recovery. While most pregnancies are straightforward, some women have discomfort throughout, some experience a long labour and others a traumatic delivery requiring mechanical intervention or emergency Caesarean section.
Straightforward or otherwise, the very nature of pregnancy and childbirth challenges the deep abdominal muscles and muscles of the pelvic floor that support the lumbar spine. Multiple pregnancies, carrying multiple babies and the abdominal surgery of Caesarean deliveries are all risk factors for ongoing discomfort and rehabilitation may be required.
Destabilisation of the spine also occurs through ligamentous laxity persisting into the post-natal period. Postural issues can arise, especially in breastfeeding mothers whose hormone levels remain high. Lifting, feeding and carrying babies as they grow in size and gain in weight are all compounding variables.
However post-natal discomfort arises, our treatments aim to re-educate the muscles, to stabilise the joints and to re-establish connection with the supporting muscles of the deep abdomen and pelvic floor.
Our treatment plans may include yoga-based exercises for post-natal recovery.
Babies
Osteopathy is suitable for babies from newly born, our Baby Clinic is for babies from birth to 5 years.
There are several reasons why people seek treatment for their baby or toddler. Amongst other things, a traumatic birth, colic-like symptoms or feeding difficulties. Some parents just want to have their baby checked over.
Babies skeletons are softer than those of adults and gentler cranial techniques are often used in their treatment. These can be relaxing and calming and have a positive influence on wellbeing. Many of the newborns that we see in clinic present with colic-like distress patterns, digestive discomfort or feeding difficulties. We combine cranial work with structural body work to address any fascial patterns affecting free movement and function of the organs.
We teach infant massage and yoga-based exercises for interactive mother-baby practice. These can assist in early bonding processes and, once familiar, can be used as calming tools for unsettled babies.
Juniors
Osteopathy is suitable for children and adolescents at all stages of their development. Our Juniors Clinic is for children from 6 to 15 years of age.
There are several reasons why juniors attend our clinic. Skeletal maturity is not complete until our late teens/early 20s. Postural issues are a real problem causing discomfort in today's youngsters. Our active patients often present with sports injuries and growing pains. Some have biomechanical dysfunctions that make them prone to injury. Many more are just plain accident prone! Our more complex cases feature congenital and or developmental dysfunctions.
Whatever the reason for their visit, we encourage all our junior patients and support them to play an active role in their treatment and recovery.
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