Osteopathic Treatment Options for Baby Colic

Unfortunately, baby colic is a common condition. While there are still questions about what exactly causes it, hundreds of babies around the country suffer from long periods of crying with no explanation. It is just as upsetting for parents that feel unable to soothe their little one as it is for the baby. While the symptoms usually disappear in a matter of weeks, it is still a stressful time period, and it can last longer. Osteopathic manipulation is a holistic approach that could help and is worth investigating.

Baby colic can be difficult to diagnose, but most medical professionals stick to the rule of threes, symptoms that last at least three hours a day, three days a week, for three weeks or more. Symptoms usually include inconsolable crying, upset stomach, gas, discomfort, and general irritability. Before the doctor will make the diagnosis, they will rule out all other possible causes.

Often, treatment is difficult because the cause of the trauma is not always known. Some believe that osteopathic manipulation can best help baby colic. The birthing process is highly stressful and requires a great amount of pressure on baby's muscles, bones, and organs. While the soft tissues and bones are intended to go through the birth canal, sometimes they don't return to their normal shape. This is especially true for fast births or those that used forceps. The compressed musculoskeletal structures could be the cause of the pain and trouble for baby.

Through extremely gentle and specific manipulations, a trained osteopathic doctor can help massage baby's body back to its intended form. This could help relieve the symptoms of baby colic, as the body heals and begins to function properly. While only a professional in osteopathy can make a proper evaluation, it could be worth saving frustration and pain on your part and on baby's to seek council about osteopathic treatment.

If you would like to learn more about baby colic in the Austin area, visit Tamara McReynolds, D.O.

5 Signs of Concussion and What to Do About Them

Head injuries are no joke and even a small bump to the head can end up needing treatment and concussion recovery measures. If any of the signs of concussion appear after any type of head trauma, it is recommended that immediate medical attention be sought, even if some of the side effects don't manifest until hours after the incident. A medical professional can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan to help the brain tissue and body heal, such as rest, therapy, or osteopathic manipulation.

1. Head trauma

One of the first signs that a person could have a concussion is that they experienced some sort of head trauma. Obvious situations, like automobile accidents or something large hitting the head are often treated in enough time. The trouble is when an accident is thought to be minor, such as hitting the head on a cabinet door or other kind of obstruction. After these situations, it is important to pay close attention for any further signs.

2. Physical issues

Most people know to watch out for nausea, vomiting, or headaches. However, a number of physical issues can present as the result of head trauma and merit steps for concussion recovery. Problems with maintaining balance, general dizziness, blurred or fuzzy vision, or even a noticeable sensitivity to light or noise should excite further measures.

3. Emotional problems

Sometimes, the physical issues aren't as noticeable as the emotional ones. If the mood is altered, then a medical professional should be seen. The patient might be unusually sad, angry, or overly emotional for seemingly no reason. They also might appear anxious or nervous.

4. Sleep trouble

If the trauma victim experiences trouble with sleep, it is a sign of concussion and they should attempt to find a process for concussion recovery. This can manifest in sleeping more or less than usual, having a difficult time falling asleep, or a general feeling of being tired with no energy.

5. Cognitive concerns

Some of the most disturbing signs of concussion are cognitive. These are typically associated with severe trauma, which leads to swelling and impaired brain function. A feeling of everything being in slow motion, an inability to think clearly or concentrate, or memory loss are serious symptoms that need to be addressed quickly. If the patient is unconscious, they should be rushed to the nearest emergency room.

If you would like to learn more about concussion recovery in Georgetown, click here.

FAQs and Answers about Cranial Manipulation for Infants

Any time you are considering a procedure for your child, even one that can be beneficial, like cranial manipulation for infants, it is your duty to perform the necessary research. 

 

FAQ: Babies don't get stressed, why do they need cranial manipulation?

A: The birthing process is one of the most stressful events we will ever experience. We don't remember it, but our bodies must go through a great amount of physical stress in order to pass through the birth canal. While babies are naturally formed to handle this stress with their incomplete and soft bones, there can be some residual issues that don't heal on their own because of the compression.

FAQ: How do I know if my baby needs this type of therapy?

A: It is worth speaking with an osteopathic doctor about cranial manipulation for infants if you notice any number of problems with your child. Issues with sleeping, eating (including unusual reflux), constipation, failure to thrive, misshapen head, or colic could be addressed and reversed by simply and gently manipulating baby's body back into the correct form. Soft tissues, nerves, muscles, and bones all work together and when one or several are out of place, baby could be hurting or unable to grow properly.

FAQ: Will the therapy hurt my baby?

A: An osteopathic doctor specifically trained in cranial manipulation for infants will be able to perform the safe and highly gentle therapeutic manipulation so baby can be healthy. Light pressure will be applied in specific points to help baby's body regain its natural shape and release the tension.

FAQ: Are there any side effects from the therapy?

A: As with any procedure, results vary between patients. Baby might cry a little or be unsettled for a short period after the procedure as they get accustomed to their new adjustments. In most cases, baby is either immediately soothed or gets a sudden burst of energy because they feel good with the pressure released. Almost always, baby sleeps extremely well after cranial manipulation for infants.

If you would like to learn more about cranial manipulation for infantsin Austin, visit Tamara McReynolds, D.O.