It's normal for most babies to occasionally fuss and cry, as part of typical infant behaviour. However, those described as 'colicky' experience significantly more intense, frequent, and extended episodes of crying or fussiness, even though they are healthy.
Colic can be especially challenging for parents, as the baby's distress appears without any obvious cause and consoling efforts seem ineffective. These episodes frequently happen in the evening, often referred to as the 'witching hour,' a time when parents are typically fatigued.
Colic episodes typically reach their peak when an infant is approximately 6 weeks old and decrease significantly after 3 to 4 months of age, with most parents being advised to 'wait it out'. Although the excessive crying is expected to subside over time and parents are frequently informed that there is no 'cure' for colic, it remains a challenging period not only for the distressed infant but also for the entire family.
Although infants with colic are often considered medically 'healthy and fine,' a baby who is crying inconsolably is undoubtedly attempting to communicate something. These infants exhibit signs of bodily tension and an overactive nervous system, which is evident in their inability to calm down. Common signs include arching their backs, clenching fists, and frantic or disorganized sucking or latching. This behavior can lead to digestive discomforts, as the baby may ingest air, becoming excessively gassy, or may overfill their stomachs by continuously nursing for comfort. This can create a challenging cycle of discomfort and overwhelm for both infants and parents.
Fortunately, Osteopathy can assist with these issues, as it is a gentle therapy designed to cooperate with the body and soothe the nervous system, allowing the baby to feel more comfortable in their body and aiding in the nervous system's self-regulation.
A randomized controlled study published in 2023 demonstrated that osteopathic manual therapy effectively alleviated symptoms of infant colic and resulted in a reduction in colic severity compared to the control group.
Infants who underwent osteopathic treatment exhibited reduced crying, with sustained improvement observed during the second week. Parents consistently reported enhancements following each session. Additionally, the infants experienced better sleep and reduced regurgitation, without any adverse side effects.
If your infant exhibits symptoms of colic, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure that these symptoms are not caused by an underlying medical condition. Once medical conditions have been ruled out, osteopathy may be considered as a viable option to provide relief for your baby.
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