So, you’re a mum now and a new world is opening up to you. The first few months of your baby’s life are amazing and so full of change. And it’s not just you who’s got to adapt to this strange new world.
Your baby has to get used to life outside of the womb. The freedom to move around and stretch out is new to them, as being in a restricted space while growing clearly doesn’t allow for full movement. Imagine, just for a moment, how you would feel if you’d been cured up in a small space for months!
The first few weeks
During the first few weeks, you’ll notice that baby is still influenced by their position in the womb: they are comfortable lying curled up and often like to have their head held to one side. But as they get more used to using muscles and moving around, they will gain a bit more self-control and coordination.
Starting at the head and working towards the feet, they will gain more controlled movement, following you around the room with their eyes before eventually being able to turn to look around by about 3 months old. It’s a wonderful feeling when they follow your voice.
Getting physical
They also start reaching for objects – including hair and eyes of unwary parents! And your baby will start exploring new sensations like touch, taste and making noise. At this stage, all sorts of things end up in their mouth.
All of this activity is important for developing the nervous system – the more they explore and try, the better they get at it. They also get stronger, and will soon be sitting up and turning or rolling over.
Getting ready for life
These movements aren’t just about getting muscles working, they also influence the development of the spine; moving the head and neck, lifting the body on outstretched arms and rolling over all help to influence the curves that develop in the spine, which are important for weight distribution and movement in later life.
A little helping hand
Getting used to this new freedom is important for your baby. But as with any activity, sometimes it causes a few aches and pains in your baby. If you have any concerns, osteopathy for babies is a very gentle and natural way to help identify any specific causes of pain or discomfort.
Treatment for babies is gentler than for adults, and often includes cranial techniques, which focus on the skull and upper neck. Osteopathy is about restoring and maintaining movement and balance within the body. It isn’t just suitable for adults – the techniques are adaptable for all ages, and are applied in a personal way for each patient.
We aim to provide safe, comfortable treatment to help with your baby’s start in life and to offer advice and help with resolving skeletal-based problems that may arise. In those first few exciting but daunting weeks and months, we’re here to just give you and your baby a helping hand.
Want to know more about osteopathy for babies?
Take advantage of our free 15-minute consultation.
