Osteopathy for sleep problems: how it works
If your child has trouble sleeping, it has a big impact on the whole family. Bad nights make children irritable and parents exhausted. Fortunately, osteopathy can help with sleep problems in children of all ages, from infants to older children. But how does it actually work? In this text, we explain how osteopathy can contribute to better sleep, working with three major systems in the body: the musculoskeletal system, the internal organ system and the craniosacral system.
What is osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a manual method of treatment. This means that the osteopath works exclusively with the hands to detect and work on tension and lack of movement in the body. The idea is that everything in the body is connected. A blockage in one part of the body can affect other parts, and restoring balance and mobility can support the body’s self-healing ability.
In children, as in adults, the osteopath assesses the mobility of tissues. These include muscles, joints, organs and even the bones of the skull. If these tissues cannot move properly, it can have a negative impact on how the body functions, and that can, amongst other things, lead to sleep problems.
Balancing the three systems
When an osteopath treats a child with sleep problems, three systems are important:
- The musculoskeletal system
These are the bones, muscles, joints and connective tissues. Problems in this system can contribute to sleep problems in all ages.
- With babies: Preferred posture or tension in the neck due to childbirth can cause discomfort and lead to disturbed sleep.
- In older children: Back or neck pain from incorrect sitting posture at school, lots of screen time or intense sports can make it difficult for a child to rest at night.
The osteopath examines movement restrictions in the musculoskeletal system and restores flexibility to these tissues through gentle, specific techniques. This allows the body to relax, which often helps improve sleep.
- The organ system
Internal organs such as the stomach, intestines and lungs are in motion, however small those movements may be. These movements are necessary for the organs to function properly. For example, if the intestines are less mobile because of tension or adhesions, it can cause discomfort, which interferes with a peaceful night’s sleep.
- In babies: Nightly cramps or reflux can make sleeping difficult.
- In older children: Problems such as constipation or food sensitivities may cause abdominal pain or restlessness during the night.
Through gentle techniques, the osteopath can reduce tension around organs and restore mobility. This can not only help relieve discomfort, but also improve sleep.
- The craniosacral system
This system includes the skull, spine and sacrum, as well as the cerebrospinal fluid that circulates within it.
- In babies: Tension in this system can be caused by, for example, a heavy delivery, a cesarean section or a fall.
- In older children: Tension can be built up from headaches, stress or maybe a fall while playing.
The osteopath examines whether there is tension or restricted mobility in this system. Gentle techniques are used to relieve this tension, which can lead to better relaxation and therefore better sleep.
The importance of mobility
In all three systems, the mobility of the tissues is crucial. Mobility allows the body to function freely and to release tension and stress. If a tissue does not move properly, it can lead to blockages that disrupt balance. In children, this is especially important because their bodies are still developing. Small blockages can quickly manifest into discomfort, such as sleep problems.
Osteopathy focuses on restoring this mobility. Treatment is always tailored to the child and is done with gentle, kind techniques. It’s because children often respond quickly to osteopathy, that it is a safe and effective way to address sleep problems.
What to expect.
At a first appointment with the osteopath, a comprehensive intake is done. This involves looking at the history, such as pregnancy, childbirth and any previous diseases or complaints. Then the osteopath examines the whole body to see where the blockages are.
A treatment takes about an hour the first time, a follow-up treatment usually takes 30 to 45 minutes. You often notice a difference after just a few treatments. Babies become calmer, sleep better or wake up less often. Older children often feel more relaxed, and with less tension in their bodies, they fall asleep more easily.
Make an appointment
Sleep problems can have a major effect on your child’s well-being as well as yours as a parent. Fortunately, often something can be done about it. Want to know if osteopathy can do something for your child – whether it’s a baby or a child already going to school? Get in touch with Sander Sprong Osteopathy. Together we will look at what your child needs to get back to sleeping comfortably. It is also possible to make an appointment in the online agenda.
