# The Importance of Gentle Hands-On Care for Babies Learn how gentle osteopathic assessment and treatment can help babies who experienced challenging births with feeding, digestion, sleep, and overall comfort. February 14, 2025 | 2 min read | [Susannah Reid](https://ateasephysio.ca/team/susannah-reid) , Registered Physiotherapist Pediatric Care Manual Therapy Infant Health ## Key Takeaways - Non-optimal birth positions can place strain on delicate bones, nerves, and tissues - Gentle hands-on techniques help release tensions affecting feeding, digestion, and sleep - Early assessment can support healthy development and address concerns before they persist Birth is a transformative journey for both mother and baby. However, when a baby is not in an optimal birthing position—such as breech, posterior, or asynclitic where the baby’s head is tilted to one side—it can place additional strain on their delicate bones, cartilages, nerves, and membranous tissues. These tensions may persist post-birth, potentially affecting feeding, digestion, sleep, and overall comfort. ## A Holistic Approach to Infant Care Gentle osteopathic assessment and treatment provide a holistic approach to ensuring a baby’s body is free from restrictions that could impact their healthy growth and development. Osteopathic techniques involve soft, hands-on care that helps release tensions in the musculoskeletal and nervous systems, fostering optimal function and comfort through [craniosacral therapy](https://ateasephysio.ca/services/craniosacral-therapy), [manual therapy](https://ateasephysio.ca/services/manual-therapy), and [visceral manipulation](https://ateasephysio.ca/services/visceral-manipulation). Research suggests that manual therapy can positively influence newborns experiencing feeding difficulties, colic, or sleep disturbances (Hayden & Mullinger, 2006; Philippi et al., 2006). ## Why Early Assessment Matters Early assessment is key. If your baby experienced a challenging birth, or you notice signs of discomfort, feeding difficulties, or asymmetries in movement, consider booking a gentle osteopathic check-up. Addressing these concerns early can support healthy development and overall well-being. * * * _Ready to support your baby’s best start in life? [Book an appointment](https://ateasephysio.ca/contact) today._ ## References - Hayden, C., & Mullinger, B. (2006). A preliminary assessment of the impact of cranial osteopathy for infants with feeding difficulties. _Journal of Osteopathic Medicine_, 9(4), 124-129. - Philippi, H., et al. (2006). Infantile colic—an osteopathic treatment study. _Children’s Health and Manual Therapy_, 12(3), 183-188. ## About the Author ### [Susannah Reid](https://ateasephysio.ca/team/susannah-reid) Clinic Owner & Registered Physiotherapist Visceral Manipulation Concussion Recovery Pelvic Health CranioSacral Therapy > "Treating only the top layer of the issue will result in it resurfacing sooner or later. Assessing and treating these deeper systems of our bodies gives better, longer-lasting results." [View Profile](https://ateasephysio.ca/team/susannah-reid) · [View all posts](https://ateasephysio.ca/blog/author/susannah-reid) ## Dealing With Something Similar? Our physiotherapists treat these concerns every day. Book an assessment and get a plan tailored to your body. [Book an appointment](https://ateasephysio.janeapp.com/) [Call +1 604 923 8323](tel:+16049238323) ## Related Articles [Jan 31, 2025 6 min Physiotherapy and the Polyvagal Theory: Supporting Your Nervous System Treatment Read more](https://ateasephysio.ca/blog/polyvagal-theory-manual-therapy) [Jul 29, 2023 3 min Why Visceral Manipulation? Treatment Read more](https://ateasephysio.ca/blog/why-visceral-manipulation) [Mar 16, 2024 6 min Dural Layers Explained: A Hidden Cause of Headaches, Vertigo & Neck Pain Education Read more](https://ateasephysio.ca/blog/dural-layers-central-nervous-system) [Previous Clinical Pilates with a Registered Physiotherapist](https://ateasephysio.ca/blog/clinical-pilates-with-physiotherapist) [All Posts](https://ateasephysio.ca/blog) [Next Physiotherapy and the Polyvagal Theory: Supporting Your Nervous System](https://ateasephysio.ca/blog/polyvagal-theory-manual-therapy)