You can take your baby to the osteopath as soon as you're home from the maternity ward, after talking it over with your paediatrician. I see infants and children in Valencia and Paterna, always with a parent present, in French, Spanish or English.
Here are the questions parents ask me most often before a first appointment, with my answers.
My training for little ones
Looking after babies is especially close to my heart. On top of my five years of osteopathy studies, I've trained in it several times:
- in 2019, the "Paediatrics-perinatal" course at ISOstéo Lyon: 150 hours over 21 days, including 42 hours of practice;
- in 2021, the "From preconception to birth" course in obstetric osteopathy;
- in 2022, a paediatric course on infants and babies, with Catherine Rybus and Charlotte Bergerot Pallisco, osteopaths D.O.
From what age can you come?
From the very first days, once you're home from the maternity ward. Many parents simply come for a check after the birth, or because of breastfeeding difficulties (pain for the mum during feeds, which most of the time forces her to stop breastfeeding) or for an infant torticollis issue.
Other moments come up often:
- when your baby seems uncomfortable in certain positions and/or always turns their head to the same side;
- during big milestones, like feeding, babywearing or first steps;
- for an older child, after a fall or during a growth phase.
- for symptoms of infant colic or reflux.
For babies under 3 months and if it's hard for you to get about, I can also come to your home. Message me on WhatsApp to arrange the visit.
When should you see the paediatrician first?
Osteopathy doesn't replace your child's medical care. For a newborn, talk to your paediatrician first: in Spain, that's usually the one at your centro de salud. I work alongside their care, never instead of it.
Some signs come before any osteopath appointment. Call your paediatrician first, or 112 in an emergency, if your baby:
- has a fever;
- is crying in an unusual way;
- refuses to feed;
- seems unusually sleepy or floppy.
Put simply, whenever something worries you, your paediatrician is still the first person to call.
What happens in the session?
Your baby stays with you from start to finish. I begin by listening to you: the pregnancy, the birth, sleep, feeding, the first weeks. These questions help me understand your baby before I touch them.
Then I introduce myself to your baby and work with very gentle movements, suited to their age and symptoms. Your child can feed, play or take a break whenever they need: the session follows their pace, not the other way round. I explain what I'm doing as I go. You can ask me questions at any time.
How to prepare for the session?
A baby who is very hungry or very tired is rarely at ease. If you can, pick a time when they're usually fairly calm. It isn't a must: if they need to feed or have a break in your arms during the session, we adapt.
Remember to bring:
- your baby's health record book;
- a spare nappy;
- something to feed them during or after the session.
For an older child, a favourite toy or cuddly can help them feel at ease.
Valencia or Paterna: where to come with a baby?
Both practices see babies. In Valencia, the practice is in the Eixample, in the Cánovas area near Russafa. In Paterna, the Valterna practice is wheelchair accessible (so pushchair-friendly too) and easy to reach by car.
You'll find the addresses and opening hours on the my practices page.
What I don't do
I don't make medical diagnoses and I don't replace the paediatrician or the midwife. Nor do I promise results, but I'll do everything I can to ease your baby's discomfort as much as possible: every baby is different. What I offer is time to listen and very gentle work, suited to your child, in step with their medical care.
After the session
At the end, I explain what I observed and tell you whether it's worth coming back. In the following days, if a question comes up, message me on WhatsApp: I'll reply as soon as I can.
If your baby doesn't seem their usual self, or if a sign worries you, call your paediatrician straight away.
What about older children?
I also see children of all ages. With them, I take the time to explain what I'm going to do, in simple words. The session adapts to their energy that day and a parent always stays present.
Frequently asked questions
Can you come to our home?
Yes, for babies under 3 months or if you can't travel. Message me on WhatsApp to arrange the visit.
How much does a session cost?
A session costs 60 €. I give you an invoice you can send to your health insurer or private insurance: cover depends on your policy.
How many sessions are needed?
It depends on each baby. At the end of the first session, I tell you whether it's worth coming back and when.
What language is the session in?
In French, Spanish or English, whichever you prefer. For families who've just moved to Valencia or who don't speak Spanish, being able to consult in their own language is often a relief.
To find out more, read the osteopathy for babies and children page, or book directly on the book a session page.
Osteopathy doesn't replace your child's medical care. If in doubt, see your paediatrician first.