It can be beneficial for your child to have an osteopathic assessment if they have a fall, especially if they hit their head, or land on their spine or bottom. Children have an amazing ability to ‘bounce back’, however some trauma can be retained in the tissues and joints of the body that may not be immediately apparent, but which can go on to cause problems later on in life. Your osteopath will be able to find any restrictions that may be present, and then through treatment, they can prevent further problems from occurring.

Sporting injuries are also common in children, as are other adolescent conditions such as Osgood Schlatter’s and Scheuermann’s disease. Osteopathy can be of great benefit in such conditions as well as with recurrent problems such as ankle sprains. Keeping an eye on your child’s posture is very important. Influences such as carrying heavy school bags and increased use of computers can cause postural problems that may become more difficult to address as your child gets older. Signs to look out for, which indicate an early problem with posture, include asymmetry in the shoulders (one higher or more forward than the other), excessive slouching, curvature of the spine or turning in or out of the feet. Check your child’s shoes – do they wear out quickly on one side more than the other? This can also point towards postural imbalance.

Dr Patrick Kuhn has a special interest in treating children. He incorporates a wide range of osteopathic techniques that are gentle and effective for relieving the various conditions children present with. If you have a child or know someone who has a child who needs osteopathic treatment please make an appointment to see Dr Kuhn regarding their needs.