Pediatric Osteopathy for Babies, Children & Young Adults

Gentle, hands-on care that supports your child's growth, comfort and development — from newborn feeding difficulties through to the aches, sleep and concentration problems of older children and teenagers.

Understanding Pediatric Visceral Osteopathy

Pediatric visceral osteopathy is a specialized form of therapy that plays a crucial role in supporting the healthy development of infants and children. By addressing restrictions in the body's internal organs and soft tissues, this gentle, hands-on approach can alleviate common issues such as tongue-tie, reflux, colic, constipation, and feeding difficulties.

The therapy aims to restore natural mobility and alignment, promoting comfort, improved digestion, and overall well-being from the inside out. At Tucson Integrated Therapies, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective care that nurtures your child's growth and development.

For older children and young adults, the same light-touch principles are combined with craniosacral work to help with headaches, sports injuries, sleep, stress and concentration — a holistic approach that nurtures growth, development, and overall well-being at every stage.

For information focused specifically on craniosacral work for infants and conception, see CranioSacral Therapy for Babies and Conception.

Practitioner's hands resting lightly on a baby's ribcage during a gentle osteopathic treatment
Clothed baby sitting up while a practitioner supports the crown of its head and shoulder

Treating Your Child

For treatment purposes I consider children to be between 1 and 9 years old. Treatment over 9 years of age is the same as that for adults. For young people up to 16 years I request a guardian to be present, and between 16 and 18 years, if they are attending on their own, a letter of consent from their parents or care givers.

Adaptability by the therapist is probably the most important thing when treating all children. There are many ways in which I need to adapt my techniques to treat little ones effectively.

CranioSacral Therapy for children and young adults

Children often prefer to be close to their parents or carer and so their treatment may take place either lying down, in a chair or, if it's a toddler, I often find myself following them around the room and waiting for an opportunity to get my hands on them! Having some colourful toys, storybooks or jigsaws in my therapy room helps to keep their interest, and if I could ask you to bring their favourite cuddly toy or comforter with them, this allows me more hands-on time.

Children often enjoy craniosacral therapy, many noticing the benefits for themselves and usually asking their parents/carers if they can come again. They are usually very eager to climb up onto the couch and find treatment very soothing.

Smiling young girl receiving gentle craniosacral therapy on her jaw and face

Key Benefits of Pediatric Visceral Osteopathy

Gentle and Non-Invasive

The approach is soft and soothing, ensuring a comfortable experience for your child.

Supports Digestive Health

By improving organ mobility, we help alleviate digestive issues like colic and reflux.

Enhances Overall Well-being

Treatment encourages better sleep, feeding, and general comfort for your child.

Promotes Natural Development

The therapy supports the body's natural growth processes, fostering healthy development.

Our Pediatric Osteopathy Services

Gentle pediatric osteopathy addressing common concerns to support healthy development.

Tongue-Tie Release Support

The approach helps alleviate restrictions associated with tongue-tie, promoting better feeding and speech development.

Reflux Relief Therapy

Specialized techniques to ease reflux symptoms, improving comfort and digestion in infants and children.

Colic Soothing Sessions

Gentle methods help reduce colic discomfort, providing relief and peace for both babies and parents.

Constipation Management

Targeted osteopathic techniques assist in relieving constipation, enhancing digestive health and comfort.

Conditions We May Help in Children & Young Adults

Beyond the infant years, gentle hands-on care helps alleviate chronic pain, improve sleep patterns, enhance cognitive function, and reduce stress and anxiety — supporting the body's natural healing processes and a balanced, healthy lifestyle.

Conditions We May Help

  • Headaches, head pain and migraine
  • Jaw problems
  • Back pain, neck pain
  • Joint injuries
  • Muscle strains, sports injuries
  • Asthma and breathing difficulties
  • Glue ear & related hearing problems
  • Stress related problems
  • Emotional problems e.g. anger, frustration, grief
  • Sleep disorders & nightmares
  • Learning difficulties
  • Behavior problems
  • Clumsiness, poor concentration
  • Epilepsy

May Help Improve or Manage, But Not Resolve

  • Dyspraxia
  • ADD & ADHD
  • Dyslexia
  • Autism & Asperger's syndrome
  • Cerebral Palsy and other brain injuries
  • Genetic disorders including Down syndrome

Techniques Used

Techniques particularly effective for younger clients include light-touch palpation to release tensions in the central nervous system, gentle manipulations to improve fluid and organ movement, and specific protocols designed to address developmental challenges. Each session is customized to meet the unique needs of children and young adults, ensuring a safe and supportive healing environment.

Your Questions Answered

What is pediatric visceral osteopathy?

Pediatric visceral osteopathy is a gentle, hands-on therapy focusing on the internal organs and soft tissues to promote healthy development in children.

What ages do you treat?

Newborns through young adults. For treatment purposes I consider children to be between 1 and 9 years old; treatment over 9 years of age is the same as that for adults. For young people up to 16 I request a guardian to be present, and between 16 and 18, if they are attending on their own, a letter of consent from their parents or care givers.

How can osteopathy help with feeding difficulties?

By addressing restrictions and improving mobility, osteopathy can enhance feeding efficiency and comfort for infants experiencing difficulties.

Is the treatment safe for newborns?

Yes, the treatments are non-invasive and specifically tailored to the delicate needs of newborns and young children.

Can osteopathy assist with sleep issues?

Yes, by alleviating discomfort and promoting relaxation, osteopathy can contribute to better sleep patterns for your child.

Serving Tucson and Surrounding Cities

Conveniently located in Tucson, AZ — easily accessible for clients across the greater Tucson area.

  • Tucson, AZ
  • Marana, AZ
  • Oro Valley, AZ
  • Vail, AZ
  • Sahuarita, AZ
  • Green Valley, AZ
  • Three Points, AZ
  • Catalina Foothills, AZ
  • Tanque Verde, AZ
  • Casas Adobes, AZ
  • Drexel Heights, AZ
  • Flowing Wells, AZ
  • South Tucson, AZ
  • Rita Ranch, AZ
  • Midvale Park, AZ
  • Rancho Vistoso, AZ
  • Continental Ranch, AZ
  • Civano, AZ
  • Sam Hughes, AZ

Talk with Reva About Your Child's Care

Compassionate, effective care that nurtures your child's growth and development — from babies through to young adults.