Introducing your child to osteopathy can be a wonderful opportunity to spark their natural curiosity about how their body works. Children may feel more comfortable during an appointment when they understand what’s happening in simple, age-appropriate terms.
By explaining osteopathy as a healthcare approach that considers how the body moves and functions, you’re not only preparing them for their appointments but also nurturing their awareness of their own body’s amazing abilities. This understanding may encourage children to become active participants in their health journey, building confidence and helping them feel more prepared for new experiences.
Here are some great ways to communicate the purpose and approach of osteopathy to your child, adjusting the language as age-appropriate:
- Osteopaths are healthcare professionals who assess and manage musculoskeletal concerns in people of different ages. Whether osteopathic care is appropriate depends on individual needs.
- Listen to your body, because it’s telling you something important about what it needs.
- Keep moving through daily exercise and stretching.
- Tune in, and ask yourself, “What does my body need today?”
“In this way, we encourage our children’s understanding of their health and wellbeing, one that stretches into adulthood and throughout their lifespan.”
Preparing your child for an osteopathy appointment
Before your child visits an osteopath, you might like to prepare them for what they can expect. Here’s how:
- We will get there a little early so we don’t need to feel rushed.
- Let’s wear some comfortable clothes, so that you feel good and moving around is easier.
- The osteopath may ask you to lift your arms or legs, or bend down to touch your toes, or ask you to perform a movement activity.
- The osteopath will look at the area that is troubling you, the part that is uncomfortable or hurting, as well as other nearby parts of the body. For example, if you have a sore knee, your osteopath may also look at your ankle, pelvis and lower back.
- Your osteopath will explain what they think might be going on for you, and they will come up with some ideas of things that you can try, like fun exercises or movements that may be appropriate for your individual needs.
- Yes, you can ask questions the entire time! They love it when you do. You can also let your osteopath know if something feels uncomfortable or you would like them to stop.
Find an osteopath
Looking for an osteopath in your area? Visit Osteopathy Australia’s Find an Osteo directory to find a registered osteopath near you.
Originally written by Emily Jones, Advanced Paediatric osteopath, IBCLC, Align & Nurture. Adapted for Osteopathy Australia with permission.
This article provides general information only. Every child has individual needs, and whether osteopathic care is appropriate will depend on their circumstances. If you have concerns about your child’s health, seek advice from an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.