|
Donjoy Products
We are delighted to be a supplier of Donjoy products. Please contact us on 01202 730307 or via email
This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
to find out more.
|
|
Osteopathy and Children |
|
|
The gentle approach of Osteopathy makes it especially suitable for treating children, including new-born infants. Children may develop structural problems from a variety of causes including:
* Difficulties during pregnancy or labour
* Childhood accidents and falls
* Infections or inflammatory conditions
* Genetic or developmental disorders
Osteopathic care and treatment can assist in easing a wide variety of conditions, either solely or alongside other disciplines.
Structure and Function
Structural problems, such as those affecting the proper mobility and function of the body’s framework, can lead to a range of problems. These may include:
* Postural – such as a scoliosis
* Respiratory dysfunction – such as asthma
* Manifestations of brain injury – such as cerebral palsy and spasticity
* Developmental – delayed physical progress, perhaps triggering learning or behaviour difficulties
* Recurrent infections – such as ear and throat infections or urinary disturbances
Before any treatment takes place, the Osteopath will take comprehensive case history of both the mother and the child, and complete an examination of the child, including requesting any medical tests where appropriate. This will determine if osteopathic treatment is appropriate, or if there is need for a referral to their G.P.
On examination, using the palpatory skills which osteopaths are known for, the practitioner can identify where the child’s structure has been disrupted and treatment can be directed to assist in the resolution of the dysfunction.
The Fluidity of the body
Osteopaths recognise that the body is fluid and has developed to move. Along with the obvious movements, such as crawling and walking, the recognition of the importance of circulation of blood, respiration, the progression of food through the gut and elimination of waste products are also acknowledged as of value to health. Treatment is directed at maintaining the fluidity of the body mechanisms. A useful analogy is that of a pond; if a pond becomes stagnant and has no exchange of water then life within the pond begins to cease.
Osteopaths also understand that the body is constantly adjusting its musculo-skeletal system during activity, to maintain a sense of balance in the body and to keep the eyes and ears level. This sense of balance is one of the central themes of osteopathy, and patients will be given advice on play exercises for the child and for the parent to assist the child in developing balance and co-ordination.
Whole body evaluation
Osteopaths believe that the body is dynamic and that each region of the body is intrinsically interconnected with every other region. For this reason, Osteopaths recognise that symptoms in a particular region of the body may not necessarily be caused by a problem in that area. For instance:
* Headaches may be caused by spinal trauma or low back problems
* Low back problems may be the sequel to a hip, knee or foot injury
* Disturbances of the infant’s head or body structure, that may be the result of a difficult labour, may lead to breathing difficulties or colic.
Most importantly, it is recognised that within every child there are inherent self-healing and self-regulating mechanisms, which when functioning effectively will restore normal health. Osteopaths can assist and enhance these processes to enable a quick progression to full health.
Because Osteopaths look at the entire picture of human functioning, they use a variety of techniques which acknowledge the many factors that contribute to balance and health. Therefore, Osteopaths will provide advice on diet, exercise, posture and many other aspects of daily life. This comprehensive approach to care and treatment complement the body’s natural functions and can help children achieve the highest possible level of health.
|
|
Our Address
Poole Bay Osteopaths
268 Herbert Avenue, Parkstone
Poole, Dorset, BH12 4HY
Tel: 01202 730307
Fax: 01202 738998
This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
Opening times and charges
|
