Digestive disorders in infants

Digestive disorders are problems affecting the digestive system, which is responsible for digestion, nutrient absorption and waste elimination. They are common in infants, as their digestive systems are still developing and can be sensitive. Here are some of the most common digestive disorders in babies that your osteopath can help your child with.

It's important to note that osteopathy for babies is based on gentle, non-invasive techniques, adapted to their specific needs. The osteopath will work closely with parents and health professionals to ensure that treatment is appropriate and safe for your baby.

Colic is often considered an idiopathic condition, meaning that its exact cause is unknown. They are characterized by abdominal pain due to immature digestion, excess gas or dietary problems.

Babies with colic cry frequently, often in the late afternoon or evening, and seem inconsolable. They may also clench their fists, bend their legs and show signs of discomfort. Colic generally disappears with time, around 5 months of age.

Parents can try to calm the baby using methods such as babywearing, gentle massage, warm baths, hot water bottles (special for babies) and position changes.

Osteopaths will assess your child's abdominal region in particular, to detect tensions, imbalances or restrictions. Their treatment will aim to relieve muscular tension and improve the mobility of abdominal structures. The aim is to optimize digestive system function by eliminating any restrictions that may contribute to colic.

Gastro-oesophageal reflux occurs when the contents of the stomach, known as the bolus, back up into the oesophagus. This may be due to the immaturity of the sphincter that separates the stomach from the esophagus.

Babies with GERD may regurgitate frequently, show signs of pain or discomfort during or after feeding, cry when lying down and have difficulty feeding.

Treatment can include changes in the baby's diet, sleeping position (reclining the mattress), and in some cases, medication prescribed by a doctor.

Osteopaths can work on the diaphragm area (the muscle separating the chest from the abdomen) to help relieve tension that may be contributing to reflux. They can also assess the baby's posture to ensure that it is not contributing to reflux problems. Osteopathy aims to improve digestive system coordination and reduce pressure on the gastroesophageal sphincter.

Constipation in infants may be due to the transition from breast to infant milk, dehydration, inadequate feeding or underlying medical conditions. It affects between 1% and 8% of infants.

Signs of constipation in babies include sparse, hard, dry stools that are difficult to pass. The baby may become irritable and show signs of pain during defecation.

Parents can try to adjust the baby's diet by consulting a health professional. Sometimes, gentle belly massage can help relieve constipation.

Osteopaths assess the mobility of the baby's abdomen and pelvis to identify and work on any restrictions that may impede the defecation process. The aim is to facilitate the passage of stool and reduce the tensions that contribute to constipation.

Babies can develop food allergies to specific foods, such as cow's milk, soy, eggs, nuts or wheat.

Symptoms of food allergy in infants can include rashes, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, irritability, colic and feeding difficulties, sometimes leading to a break in the growth curve.

Treatment usually involves avoiding the allergenic food and consulting a professional for diagnosis and dietary advice.

Although osteopathy cannot treat food allergies directly, it can help reduce the impact on your child's digestive and joint systems. This can be particularly useful in supporting your baby's overall health, including in the case of food allergies.

It's essential to consult a pediatrician or healthcare professional if you suspect your baby is suffering from digestive problems. The professional will be able to assess the situation, recommend adjustments in feeding or specific treatments, and give you advice on how to relieve your baby's symptoms. It's also important to note that every baby is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Parental patience and support are essential to help babies through these digestive disorders.

Complementary care approaches, such as osteopathy, can be used to complement traditional medical treatments, but should not replace them. Osteopathy will help to relieve your child's symptoms and also reassure you, as a parent, so that you can advise on exercises and postures for your baby.