Baby Cranial Osteopathy Croydon

Cranial Osteopathy Services covering Croydon & the Surrounding areas

Specifically cranial osteopathy is a osteopathic treatment that encourages the release of stresses and tensions throughout the body, that includes the head. Cranial osteopathy involves gentle, non invasive treatments for everyday aches and pains. Cranial osteopathy treatments are ideal for tackling specific issues that include sports injuries, paediatrics, and visceral osteopathy.

What is Cranial Osteopathy?

You may have heard the term cranial osteopathy banded about in discussions with your GP, midwife or other new mums. However, if you’re still none the wiser about what it actually is, fear not. Here’s your need-to-know guide on cranial osteopathy and cranial osteopathic treatment for babies and young children.

Cranial Osteopathy is a subtle form of osteopathic treatment. It’s usually used to treat babies and children and involves a gentle manipulation of their head and spine to increase comfort, particularly if they’re having trouble passing wind or are in discomfort when trying to settle.

Why Do Babies Need Cranial Osteopathy?

When a child is born they can often experience trauma where they absorb the stresses of labour. This can lead to many babies being born with odd-shaped heads and some bruising.

Although this normally sorts itself out within the first few days, with the baby’s crying, sucking and yawning, sometimes the process is left incomplete. Your baby may then experience discomfort if not diagnosed it can lead to long-term effects. This is where cranial osteopathy can step in.

The treatment can also be used to help with particularly ‘unsettled’ babies or little ones who have trouble sleeping.

What Does Baby Cranial Osteopathy Treatment Involve?

This form of osteopathic treatment gently encourages the release of stresses throughout the body. There are small fluctuations of movement within the body called involuntary motion, by placing their hands on a child’s body a cranial osteopath can feel a gentle expansion and contraction of all the tissues. When these motions are disturbed, such as in childbirth, cranial osteopathy can make a child feel more comfortable.

Baby cranial osteopathy is a very gentle and safe form of osteopathy which uses manual techniques to make subtle and profound changes within the body. It is non-invasive and its aim is to re-balance systems of the body to enable them to work effectively.

The recommended number of treatments will vary for everyone. Sometimes one visit to the cranial osteopath will fix the underlying health issue, while other babies need recurring consultations

I took my newborn daughter to David due to her being very gassy and unsettled. Within the first week of David seeing her she was a lot more settled and was sleeping for a lot longer at night. I would highly recommend the treatment here with David for anyone with newborns with similar issues.

Elisabeth
August 28, 2023

I have been using Sanderstead Osteopaths for many years David has been treating my ongoing back and neck issues and wouldn’t go anywhere else. I would highly recommend.

Allison
August 28, 2023

Very knowledgeable, nice people

Bernt
January 28, 2024
Great experience with Sanderstead Osteopaths. I began treatment due to a sports injury in my leg which greatly reduced my mobility. In all honesty, I just looked up osteopaths near me and these lads came up. Couldn’t be more happy with their work. My progress to recovery has taken time and obviously money to get to where I am now (back to 95%) but I couldn’t be more pleased. All of my treatment was by Paul Harmes. If you need something to be looked at, consider these guys. C

Charles
December 28, 2023

Sanderstead Osteopath provide quality treatment & professional service, I've been using David Ayers Osteopath services for over a decade with no complaints.

Mike
August 28, 2023

Very professional and friendly service from Paul.

Julia
October 28, 2023
Lexi has been very helpful with pain in my back and the treatments have been very affective and she gives out great follow up exercises

Max
February 28, 2024

Have seen both David and Clare on and off over the last 4 years with lower back pain/stiffness. They really know their stuff and have always provided me with solutions to my lower back. My job is quite demanding and doesn't help the pain (lots of driving and lifting) but knowing David and Clare will always be there to help at Sanderstead Osteopaths it puts my mind at rest. I started going weekly and with the regular treatments it's eased the pain so now I am going every 2-4 weeks. I would highly recommend either of these guys!

James
August 28, 2023

I have suffered with various back problems, especially lower back and shoulder tension. David has helped with my symptoms quickly and effectively. He is extremely professional and knowledgeable. I can highly recommend this practice and I will continue to use them in the future.

Kim
August 28, 2023
Been seeing Paul for a couple of months now for my neck pain, had been using another fairly local osteopaths before and didn’t really seem to be making any progress, but since finding here it’s been much better. I suffer really badly with tension in my neck which leads to real bad headaches, and can highly recommend this place for anyone who suffers the same issue as Paul has helped me massively.

Dan
November 28, 2023

An excellent practice, with excellent therapists. I originally saw David with a bad lower back and got amazing results. Would recommend!

P
August 28, 2023

Have used this osteopath for years and always had great service

Bill
August 28, 2023
Always really happy with the knowledge and professionalism I receive.

Daniel
August 28, 2023

I’ve been attending Sanderstead Osteopaths to see David for a few years. The treatment is effective and the service professional.

Stuart
August 28, 2023

David Ayres was brilliant with my back issues, as were his 2 colleagues I saw when he wasn't available. Professional and knowledgeable, would recommend 👌

Jane
August 28, 2023
Iv used David for 12 years now. Always reliable and available when needed for emergency appointments. I am now taking my children here when needed.

George
August 28, 2023

Absolutely brilliant. Lexi is a miracle worker, i always come away feeling back on track and realigned. I honestly dont know what i would do without her regular resets! She is lovely and the practice is always, welcoming, warm and quiet.

Vicky
February 28, 2024

I’ve been seeing David for 10+ years now and wouldn’t go anywhere else. I’ve recently taken my 15year old son to David as he has had some health issues effecting his muscles and joints, he has experienced immediate improvements. I also recommended my mum who sees another member of the team and again, is really pleased with the treatment and outcome 5⭐️

Andrew
August 28, 2023
I’ve visited Tom at Sanderstead Osteopaths since March for postnatal neck and back issues and then subsequent issues with my neck from looking after a baby (and now toddler) and he’s absolutely superb. I’d highly recommend him!

Louise
August 28, 2021

David has been treating my lower back pain. He provides a very professional service, and has a wealth of knowledge. Sanderstead Osteopath is a welcoming, cosy and clean clinic. On bad days when I have hardly been able to walk due to the pain, after David's treatment I feel I can do star jumps! The instant relief is noticeable. Parking is nearby which is very convenient. I highly recommend anyone to come here, you won't be disappointed.

Tania
August 28, 2023

I had treatments for backache and neck pain with both Tom and David, during pregnancy and after birth. I found the sessions really beneficial, they were gentle but straight to the point causing the pain. My mother sorted her backache in 4 treatments too. And I also got my newborn treated which helped her as she is much more relaxed now. I definitely recommend this clinic, osteopathy is good at any stage of life.

Laura
August 28, 2023
Thanks to Tom for treating me before and after my Marathon last year – I literally would not have been able to do it without him. He also treated me for a pulled shoulder and neck pain. I'll definitely use Sanderstead Osteopaths again – highly recommend! 👍

Richard
August 28, 2023

What are the Benefits of Baby Cranial Osteopathy?

In babies and children, bones are still pliable and many systems of the body such as the gastrointestinal system are immature and can be influenced by cranial osteopathy.

In addition to babies, cranial osteopathy can also help older children. This is because as a child grows, the effects of retained moulding can lead to other problems. These can include damaging effects on the body’s reserves and the depletion of the immune system, leaving the child more open to infections.

This is because retained moulding can affect the movements of the bones around the face reducing drainage of the ear canal and sinuses. This often leads to recurrent ear infections, impaired hearing due to glue ear and mouth breathing.
Cranial osteopathy can help relieve these symptoms.

What do I do now?

Simply send us an email to hello@sanderstead-osteopaths.co.uk or give us a call on 0208 776 0964 to have a chat about how we could your baby through cranial osteopathy.

Reasons why Parents bring their Babies to our Clinic to be treated by one of our Cranial Osteopaths.

If you are suffering from any of the below symptoms, a cranial osteopathic session may be of great benefit to you. Call our friendly and experienced practitioners on 0208 776 0964 to book an appointment.

Delivery types

babies delivered using forceps or ventouse can cause tension in a baby’s head which can result in a cone head or even bruising from the forceps. Babies can show their discomfort by crying particularly when their head is being touched or when they are laid down on their backs or have clothes or hats put on them. Cranial Osteopaths can identify and release these tension patterns.

Breast feeding issues

if there is tension in the jaw joints or other bones of the baby’s head, neck or whole body which are involved in their latch and suckling then their feeding can be difficult and they can take in air and be have colicky symptoms. Also, quite often an intense or difficult birth can lead to the baby finding it difficult to find a comfortable position to feed. Often babies prefer to turn their heads to the right rather than the left to feed. In all these cases, Cranial Osteopathy can help release these tensions and help with breastfeeding – enabling you to feed the baby longer if you wish to do so.

They won’t stop sucking

babies who constantly suck, cluster feed or snack can result in mothers giving up breastfeeding as they are exhausted and in pain. They are often not doing so because they are hungry but because, firstly, the sucking motion is calming to them and releases pain relieving chemicals and, secondly, sucking actually relieves the tension in their head (possibly caused by a traumatic or forceps or ventouse delivery). Treatment can help ease these tensions, calm the baby and the sucking reduces so that they only eat when they are hungry.

Babies needing to be held continually or swaddled

often these babies have had a shocking or surprise delivery. Babies who have experienced a C-section, a fast delivery or some sort of stress around or just before delivery can be in a state of stress or anxiety which manifests in wanting to be constantly held, being very light sleepers or being jumpy or needing swaddling. The gentle nature of Cranial Osteopathy can ease this anxiety and lower the tone of the nervous system.

The stiff arching back baby

also noted for their ‘strong’ neck although their necks are not strong they’re stiff. These babies arch a lot and throw themselves backwards. In this case, the delivery has usually been quite long and they may have got stuck low down or engaged for a long time prior to delivery. This long duration of compression leaves them upset and cranky and they struggle to sleep or don’t like lying on their backs. Again, Cranial Osteopathy can help relax and calm them by releasing the compressive tension and relaxing the ‘wired’ nervous system.

Curled up ‘little frog’ baby

these babies usually have their knees curled up so they are like a little ball. Often these babies have had a surprise like a C-section or a fast birth and therefore haven’t had their bodies stretched out properly as they travelled through the birth canal. This curled knees up position can result in windy, colicky and reflux problems all of which can be relieved with treatment.

Sleep problems

due to difficult or traumatic birth, tension can be held within the baby’s head, neck, spine and diaphragm. Cranial Osteopathy can help release this tension so that the baby, often for the first time, will truly relax. The baby’s breathing deepens, fists un-clench and the grimacing face changes to a look of peace. For many babies, this alone will turn them from a restless, colicky nightmare to a child of contentment.

Feel Better, Move Better – Schedule Your Osteopath Consultation Today

How Much Does Osteopathy Treatment Cost?

New Patients

£80

1 Hour Treatment

Returning Patients

£55

30 Minute Treatment

Other Osteopathic Services We Offer:

Baby Cranial Osteopathy Treatments

Cranial Osteopathy is a subtle form of osteopathic treatment. It's usually used to treat babies and children and involves a gentle manipulation of their head and spine to increase comfort.

General Osteopathy

Described as general osteopathic treatment (GOT) that consists of using several types of body segment mobilizations for assessing the occurrence of musculoskeletal dysfunctions

Neck, Shoulder & Upper Back Pain Treatments

Our osteopathic treatments will reduce your neck, back & shoulder pain. Treatments may include soft tissue massage, mobilisation and strengthening work to the shoulder, neck and back.

Headaches & Migraines Treatments

Migraines & headaches are often triggered or worsened by stress, muscle tension, injuries, sinus pressure and incorrect posture. Our fully trained osteopaths can assist and help remedy any pain and discomfort you may be experiencing.

Pregnancy & Post Natal Treatments

Pregnancy and postnatal osteopathy can help to address a wide range of symptoms that include back pain, rib strain, wrist issues and pelvic pain. Our osteopathic treatments can also be of benefit to those suffering with symptoms such as constipation, tiredness or emotional imbalance.

Children & Teenager Treatments

Our paediatric osteopaths are highly experienced at identifying unresolved tension within teenagers & young adults. They apply modern scientific techniques of developmental anatomy & physiology through the use of therapeutic touch.

Chronic Pain Treatment

Osteopathic manipulative treatment is used to alleviate somatic dysfunction by applying manually guided forces to improve physiologic function and support homeostasis.

Sports Injury Treatments

Our highly qualified osteopaths help to restore structural balance, ease of movement and joint mobility. Osteopathy encourages your joints range of motion, which in turn reduces pain and stiffness within the muscles and joints increasing blood flow to the affected areas.

I had treatments for backache and neck pain with both Tom and David, during pregnancy and after birth. I found the sessions really beneficial, they were gentle but straight to the point causing the pain. My mother sorted her backache in 4 treatments too. And I also got my newborn treated which helped her as she is much more relaxed now. I definitely recommend this clinic, osteopathy is good at any stage of life.

Laura
August 28, 2023

I have been using Sanderstead Osteopaths for many years David has been treating my ongoing back and neck issues and wouldn’t go anywhere else. I would highly recommend.

Allison
August 28, 2023

Very professional and friendly service from Paul.

Julia
October 28, 2023
David has been treating my lower back pain. He provides a very professional service, and has a wealth of knowledge. Sanderstead Osteopath is a welcoming, cosy and clean clinic. On bad days when I have hardly been able to walk due to the pain, after David's treatment I feel I can do star jumps! The instant relief is noticeable. Parking is nearby which is very convenient. I highly recommend anyone to come here, you won't be disappointed.

Tania
August 28, 2023

Have seen both David and Clare on and off over the last 4 years with lower back pain/stiffness. They really know their stuff and have always provided me with solutions to my lower back. My job is quite demanding and doesn't help the pain (lots of driving and lifting) but knowing David and Clare will always be there to help at Sanderstead Osteopaths it puts my mind at rest. I started going weekly and with the regular treatments it's eased the pain so now I am going every 2-4 weeks. I would highly recommend either of these guys!

James
August 28, 2023

I’ve visited Tom at Sanderstead Osteopaths since March for postnatal neck and back issues and then subsequent issues with my neck from looking after a baby (and now toddler) and he’s absolutely superb. I’d highly recommend him!

Louise
August 28, 2021
I’ve been attending Sanderstead Osteopaths to see David for a few years. The treatment is effective and the service professional.

Stuart
August 28, 2023

Have used this osteopath for years and always had great service

Bill
August 28, 2023

Absolutely brilliant. Lexi is a miracle worker, i always come away feeling back on track and realigned. I honestly dont know what i would do without her regular resets! She is lovely and the practice is always, welcoming, warm and quiet.

Vicky
February 28, 2024
Always really happy with the knowledge and professionalism I receive.

Daniel
August 28, 2023

I’ve been seeing David for 10+ years now and wouldn’t go anywhere else. I’ve recently taken my 15year old son to David as he has had some health issues effecting his muscles and joints, he has experienced immediate improvements. I also recommended my mum who sees another member of the team and again, is really pleased with the treatment and outcome 5⭐️

Andrew
August 28, 2023

An excellent practice, with excellent therapists. I originally saw David with a bad lower back and got amazing results. Would recommend!

P
August 28, 2023
I have suffered with various back problems, especially lower back and shoulder tension. David has helped with my symptoms quickly and effectively. He is extremely professional and knowledgeable. I can highly recommend this practice and I will continue to use them in the future.

Kim
August 28, 2023

Lexi has been very helpful with pain in my back and the treatments have been very affective and she gives out great follow up exercises

Max
February 28, 2024

Very knowledgeable, nice people

Bernt
January 28, 2024
I took my newborn daughter to David due to her being very gassy and unsettled. Within the first week of David seeing her she was a lot more settled and was sleeping for a lot longer at night. I would highly recommend the treatment here with David for anyone with newborns with similar issues.

Elisabeth
August 28, 2023

Thanks to Tom for treating me before and after my Marathon last year – I literally would not have been able to do it without him. He also treated me for a pulled shoulder and neck pain. I'll definitely use Sanderstead Osteopaths again – highly recommend! 👍

Richard
August 28, 2023

Great experience with Sanderstead Osteopaths. I began treatment due to a sports injury in my leg which greatly reduced my mobility. In all honesty, I just looked up osteopaths near me and these lads came up. Couldn’t be more happy with their work. My progress to recovery has taken time and obviously money to get to where I am now (back to 95%) but I couldn’t be more pleased. All of my treatment was by Paul Harmes. If you need something to be looked at, consider these guys. C

Charles
December 28, 2023
Iv used David for 12 years now. Always reliable and available when needed for emergency appointments. I am now taking my children here when needed.

George
August 28, 2023

David Ayres was brilliant with my back issues, as were his 2 colleagues I saw when he wasn't available. Professional and knowledgeable, would recommend 👌

Jane
August 28, 2023

Been seeing Paul for a couple of months now for my neck pain, had been using another fairly local osteopaths before and didn’t really seem to be making any progress, but since finding here it’s been much better. I suffer really badly with tension in my neck which leads to real bad headaches, and can highly recommend this place for anyone who suffers the same issue as Paul has helped me massively.

Dan
November 28, 2023
Sanderstead Osteopath provide quality treatment & professional service, I've been using David Ayers Osteopath services for over a decade with no complaints.

Mike
August 28, 2023