What to Bring
To help you and your child feel at ease, we suggest bringing:
• Your child’s red book/health record, if you have one
• Any relevant medical notes or hospital letters
• Nappies, wipes, and spare clothes (for babies and toddlers)
• A favourite toy, blanket, or comforter to help your child feel relaxed
• Snacks or drinks for older children
• Anything that helps your child feel settled during new experiences
A Safe and Supportive Environment
• You are welcome to hold, feed, change, or comfort your child at any time during the appointment.
• We encourage you to stay with your child throughout.
• All osteopaths at Ashby are registered with the General Osteopathic Council, and our practice follows professional standards of care and safeguarding.
What to Expect at Your Child’s First Osteopathy Appointment
Visiting a new healthcare professional with your baby or child can sometimes feel daunting. At Bingham Osteopaths, we aim to make the experience calm, safe, and supportive for both you and your child.
Your first visit will usually last a little longer than follow-ups, as we take time to understand your child’s health and your concerns. The appointment may include:
1. Case history
◦ We’ll ask about the pregnancy, your child’s birth, medical history, development, and general wellbeing.
We want to know all the little details, not only medical information, but things you notice about your child, how they move and what you might have noticed.
◦ You’ll have the chance to share any concerns or questions you may have.
2. Examination
◦ With your consent, we will gently assess how your child feels, moves and holds themselves.
◦ For babies, this may include observing feeding positions, movements, or how they lie.
(it can be useful to observe a baby feeding, so if the timing works for your family, try to have them a little bit hungry when you arrive – but please don’t worry if they can’t wait)
3. Discussion
◦ This is usually a continuous process and we will talk to you throughout the appointment, but there will be an opportunity to talk about what the examination findings have been and what treatment we recommend and why.
4. Treatment (if appropriate)
◦ If we feel osteopathic care is suitable, we will use gentle techniques to help ease the problem areas.
◦ Treatment is always adapted to your child’s age and comfort.
5. Advice
◦ We may offer suggestions on positioning, comfort, or ways to support your child at home.
◦ Where necessary, we may recommend further assessment or referral to another healthcare professional.
Important Note
Osteopathy does not replace medical care or developmental checks, and we always recommend speaking to your GP or health visitor if you have any concerns about your child’s health. If we feel that further support or investigation is needed, we will refer you to an appropriate healthcare professional.
If you’re unsure whether osteopathy is right for your child, we’re happy to answer any questions.