What is Cranial Osteopathy?                                                    Cranial osteopathy is a non invasive gentle treatment suitable for people of all ages. A caranial osteopath will put their hands at the base of the skull, feeling for tension and the flow of cerebro-spinal fluid. treat restrictions and disturbances using gentle but specific movements. This feels like gentle pressure and is not at all painful or uncomfortable.

The importance of this movement is that any stasis, or locking of cranial joints will affect the flow of Cerebral Spinal Fluid, and therefore the health of underlying brain tissue. This may eventually manifest itself in terms of illness, or neurological problems. Through subtle and gentle techniques an osteopath can facilitate the movement between cranial bones, and thereby re-establish normal cranial rhythms, allowing the body to restore itself to normal health.

Cranial osteopathy for during pregnancy.                                    During pregnancy mother and baby can be treated because of the gentle nature of the treatment. Cranial osteopathy can help ease some of the physical discomforts that often accompany pregnancy and can be helpful in preparing for labour.

Cranial osteopathy for mothers after birth.                                    Cranial osteopathy can also be effective after the birth, in assisting the recovery of mother and baby, especially if they are in shock.

Cranial osteopathy for babies.                                                        Birth can be a traumatic experience for both mother and baby. During delivery the baby’s head is compressed and moulded to travel through the birth canal. The bones of the head are designed to flex and overlap during this journey and many of us can bear witness to some of the resulting odd shaped heads.

After delivery the head gradually un-moulds over the next few days. However, this unmoulding process may be left incomplete, especially if the birth has been difficult. In cases such as these cranial osteopathy can be particularly effective. The osteopath can work to gently release tension in the baby’s body and can often relieve discomfort. Cranial osteopathy can be used effectively to treat conditions such the following:

• excessive crying

• restlessness and irritability

• sleeping problems

• feeding difficulties

• breathing difficulties

• colic and other digestive problems

• ear, nose and throat problems