Osteopaths and Colic Prevention

Sleepless nights, relentless bawling, and dirty diapers - all parents know the joys and tribulation new baby can bring into a family. Yet is can often come as a shock - especially to first-time parents - when the crying does not stop for hours, days, or even weeks on end. You begin to worry: does my child have colic?

What is colic?

Colic is defined as the incessant or uncontrollable crying of an otherwise healthy infant. It often starts between two to four weeks after birth, during which the baby has several bouts of crying during the day, usually in the mornings and in the evening, which can last for almost three hours. This colic stage often goes away after the fourth month, and only is very rare cases does it persist after the fifth month. Approximately 40% of infants suffer from mild colic, whereas 10-15% are predicted to suffer from severe colic. But do not worry: all colic cases, whether mild or severe, are only temporary.

Causes

Although professionals are not certain as to the exact causes of colic, some evidence suggests that the disorder is related to digestive problems. Some professionals claim that colic is caused as a result of the baby's intestines working too hard, resulting in painful cramps. Other doctors argue that the disorder is based on slow bowel moves which result in gas being trapped in the intestines, which can be very painful and leads to inflammation. Many osteopaths and other medical professionals still dispute the causes of colic, but where research has been conducted, it has emerged that there is no known definitive source.

General Symptoms

Now you are probably wondering, 'how do I know if my child has colic?' There are a couple of key symptoms that can help you distinguish the disorder:  The infant cries for long periods of time (up to three hours sessions) without being comforted by anything. This process repeats itself for days or weeks.  Some infants release a lot of gas, which can be very painful   The child is restless or visibly uncomfortable  The baby pulls their thighs up to their abdomen and clenches their fists

Treatment & Prevention

There are several small tips that you can carry out to make your child feel better. Osteopaths recommend that you:  Strap the baby to the front of your body in a sling. Your body's movement, heartbeat, and heat should make your child feel more relaxed.   Give your baby's belly a gentle massage, using slow circular movements

If the problem continues to exist, you are advised to visit an osteopathic clinic. Here your precious baby can be examined more closely for any tensions in body, and can be given the extra attention it needs.

Seeing your child suffer is agonizing for any parent,  especially when you do not know how to help them. However, with today's effective osteopathic techniques, and with the knowledge that colic is only a fleeting stage in a child's development, both you and your baby can finally get the full night's rest that you desire and deserve.