California, has shown that approximately 10% of all newborns demonstrate signifi- cant distortions in the shape and mobility of the structures of the head, while anoth- er 80% demonstrate moderate distortion after birth, and only 10% have no signifi- cant structural problems. The symptoms in the infants varied, according to the degree of birth trauma and level of vital- ity (strength of the immune system) in the infant. A difficult birth may cause strain to
the tissues of the newborn from twist- ing, overstretching, or compression. If the trauma is small, the body may be able to “fix” it on its own. If the trauma is more significant or if the newborn lacks vital- ity, it cannot fix itself. Then, the nervous system holds these distortions, in an at- tempt to create balance. If the forces are too great, the nervous system cannot fully compensate and the imbalances will ap- pear extreme. For example, one common cause of colic is trauma to the back of the head during birth. In the case of cesarean section, it
seems that these forces could be elimi- nated. However, there are other factors to consider. Prior to cesarean section, the child’s head may have been compressed for many hours in the pelvis and the pres- sure from this can become “imprinted” on the structures in the child’s head. With an understanding of normal anato- my and the application of a trained sense of touch, the Osteopathic physician can identify and treat the distortions in these affected children. This can vastly influ- ence the first months of life for both par-
ent and child. In general, there are also long-term benefits, as these compressions may impair other functions later in life. Osteopathic treatment of the newborn involves gentle support of the nervous and musculoskeletal systems. No strong or sudden forces are applied. Treatment involves applying the proper forces in the proper areas for the correct amount of time. As this is done, the body monitors and self corrects.
How Do I Find an Osteopathic Physician with the Skills to Help
My Baby and Me? Many Osteopathic physicians do not
maintain their skills in Osteopathic ma- nipulation beyond medical school. So, it is important to find a D.O. who focuses on these skills in their current practice. Since the number of Osteopathic physi- cians who maintain a high proficiency in OMM is relatively small, it can be diffi- cult to find an OMM specialist in many parts of the country. One resource to lo- cate physicians who specialize in OMM is
www.CranialAcademy.org.
Dr. Jill Moorcroft practices at Origins Of Health in Glastonbury where they specialize in Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine for people of all ages including pregnant women and newborns. See ad on page 34.
www.naturalnutmeg.com
September 2010
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