Baby osteopathy in Antwerp: we are happy to refer you on
These days, an osteopath is sometimes consulted for babies too. In our practice, we do not treat babies ourselves, but we are happy to refer you to a specialised colleague. For medical concerns about your baby, always contact your doctor, paediatrician or Kind en Gezin first.
What is baby osteopathy?
Baby osteopathy is a gentle, manual approach tailored specifically to very young children. A specialised osteopath works with light touches and looks at the baby's posture and mobility.
It is a separate field: babies are vulnerable and require specific training, experience and the necessary caution. That is why this work belongs with a colleague who has dedicated themselves to it, and not with every osteopath. Baby osteopathy is moreover never a substitute for the care of your doctor or paediatrician.
Why do parents sometimes consult a baby osteopath?
Some parents seek out a baby osteopath for complaints or concerns such as:
- A preferred head position or a flattened head, where the baby keeps turning the head to the same side.
- A restless or frequently crying baby, who has trouble settling down.
- Feeding and sleeping problems, such as difficult feeding or restless sleep.
It is important to be honest: the scientific evidence for osteopathy in babies is limited. Osteopathy does not cure these complaints, and many of these signs can have a medical cause. That is why medical complaints are always assessed first by a doctor or paediatrician, before an osteopath comes into the picture.
Why do we refer on?
We consider quality and safety more important than wanting to do everything ourselves. Treating babies requires a specific specialisation that we do not offer in our practice. Rather than giving a treatment for which we do not have the right experience, we prefer to put you in touch with someone who has dedicated themselves to it.
That way your baby receives the care of a specialised colleague, and you can be sure you are with the right person. The referral is without obligation and free of charge. Of course, your doctor, paediatrician or Kind en Gezin always remains the first point of contact for medical questions.
How does a referral work?
Via the button on this page or via the contact form.
You briefly tell us what you notice about your baby and what you are concerned about.
We put you in touch with a specialised colleague near you.
For medical concerns, we always advise consulting your doctor or Kind en Gezin first.
When to see the doctor first?
For a baby, medical care is always the first step. Certain signs call for immediate assessment by a doctor or the emergency department, and never belong with an osteopath first.
Contact a doctor or the emergency department immediately if your baby has:
- fever;
- poor or absent feeding;
- breathing problems;
- inconsolable or persistent crying;
- drowsiness or clear deterioration.
For your baby, your GP, paediatrician and Kind en Gezin are always the first care providers. Osteopathy does not replace their diagnosis or treatment.
Frequently asked questions about baby osteopathy
Does Eline treat babies herself?
Why do parents sometimes consult a baby osteopath?
Is baby osteopathy safe and proven?
When should I take my baby to the doctor?
How do I get a referral?
Eline, osteopath D.O.
Eline treats patients with back and neck complaints in her practice in Berchem and Wilrijk every day. For babies she deliberately chooses to refer to a specialised colleague, and where needed she works together with GPs and paediatricians.
Medical disclaimer. The information on this page is general and does not constitute personal medical advice. Every treatment starts with a personal intake interview and examination. This page is purely informative and does not take your personal situation into account. It does not replace a diagnosis, advice or treatment by a doctor or paediatrician. If you have concerns about your baby, always consult your doctor, paediatrician, Kind en Gezin or the emergency department first.
Looking for a baby osteopath?
We do not treat babies ourselves, but we are happy to help you with a no-obligation referral to a specialised colleague.