To Book a Back and Spinal Health Check : Book An Appointment
At Petersfield Osteopathy we believe that every child deserves to have a back and spinal health check.
It used to be standard practice that every child would receive two spinal and back health checkups during childhood. This was usually performed by a school nurse or GP.
I certainly can recall growing up in the 70’s and receiving one back check up at primary school age and then again at secondary school.
There is now no formal government health policy in place to offer back and spinal health check ups free at the point of service to school age children in the UK.
In early childhood, imbalances in leg length, pelvic balance, and changes in spinal function and overall back health including the back muscles, can be readily identified and usually respond well to Osteopathic treatment.
Screening for more complex spinal health issues such as scoliosis (curvature of the spine); spondylolithesis (slippage of one vertebrae on another) and other rheumatological and orthopaedic spinal health conditions can benefit from early detection and such screening can be undertaken by your Osteopath who will also provide prompt and effective referral where appropriate.
Where an Osteopath considers onward referral to your family GP would be helpful, this usually takes place with a letter of referral with Osteopathic findings, pertinent health history and reason for referral with request for paediatrician consultation where appropriate.
However, it is likely that Osteopathic treatment can offer an efficient diagnostic service and effective treatment plan which may prevent back health issues or spinal function changes.
For many children and teens/young adults back and spinal health issues are entirely preventable, and responsive to timely Osteopathic assessment and treatment.
As your child grows, and especially throughout significant growth phases in early childhood or in adolescence, it can be very helpful to offer timely intervention, assessment and potential Osteopathic treatment.
Illness or accident can be triggers for changes in spinal function and back health issues. Prolonged studies and carrying heavy bags of books and kit can contribute to underlying strains in the spine or back muscles.
Prolonged studies and poorly ergonomically designed seating and desks can also contribute to your child’s back health issues. Your Osteopath can advise you on how to check the ergonomics of seating and posture for your growing child.
If your child complains or reports back ache and especially recurrent or persistent symptoms please do consider making an enquiry for advice.
Petersfield Osteopathy offers a back and spinal health check for every child. Appointments take thirty minutes and health screening, postural assessment and advice can be given during this appointment.
To Book a Back and Spinal Health Check : Book an Appointment
