In addition to the usual childhood conditions, we may see teens with sports injuries, pain caused by poor posture, the impact of rapid physical and emotional development, and the inability to relax caused by the stress of exams or the pressures of social media. Some of our teens have been coming for Osteopathic and integrative treatment since they were babies, while others may be completely new to HOPE Center. We give our teens the time they need to discuss their issues and listen with sensitivity and calm, before moving onto treatment.
Seizures
The osteopathic literature is filled with reports concerning the use of Osteopathy in the treatment of seizures. In his earliest writings, A.T. Still, the founder of Osteopathy, described the successful treatment of patients with grand mal–type seizures.1 Dr. William Sutherland, who pioneered cranial osteopathy, published a study in the mid 1900s; study followed 92 children with cerebral palsy, 20 of whom had seizure disorder. All of the children with seizure disorder showed improvement after 6 to 12 months of treatment.
The Children’s HOPE Center takes a comprehensive approach. Nutrition, herbal therapies, and Osteopathic Manipulation can be extremely beneficial.
PANDAS
Pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcal infections (PANDAS) is a condition that exists in a subset of children with rapid onset of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) tic disorders and autism spectrum disorders. These symptoms may be caused by group A beta-hemolytic streptococcal (GABHS) infections or other bacteria.
These children require comprehensive biomedical testing, nutritional and medical treatments as well as application of Osteopathic Manipulation. A tailored holistic approach can manage or alleviate the symptoms and help patients function in their daily lives.
Dental and Orofacial Myology
At the HOPE Center we have a clinical focus on integrative dentistry. This includes assessing jaw function, tongue posture, swallowing patterns and how these affect the formation of the dental arch and position of the teeth.
Orofacial myology is the study of the oral and facial muscles. Normal facial muscle tone and tongue position are essential for healthy facial growth, dental and speech development, and breathing. This integrative treatment approach involves neuromuscular re-education and strengthening of the tongue, lips, mouth and jaw through a series of exercises. Postural exercises are also vitally important in the orofacial myology program.
A consultation involves an in-depth case history, intra-oral examination, taking measurements and photographs (with written consent), to compare before and after treatment results.
Migraines and Headaches
Headaches are a frequent symptom for some children and adolescents. While missing meals, food sensitivities, dehydration or tiredness may be some common headache triggers, musculoskeletal reasons for childhood headaches are also important to consider. Tension headaches can be caused from muscle contractions in the head and neck region. This muscle tension may be due to stress, tiredness and poor posture, presenting as a dull pain, tightness or pressure around the back of the head, neck and into the forehead.
Migraines are a severe form of headache often associated with visual disturbance, nausea and vomiting. As osteopaths we examine and treat any musculoskeletal structures that are contributing to the headaches.
Poor Posture
Posture is the manner and position in which a person holds their head, neck, back, arms and legs when standing, sitting or lying down. Poor posture is one of the major causes of neck and back pain in childhood. With electronic devices playing such a huge role in today’s society, many adolescents, children and even toddlers are spending hours each day cramped over these devices, resulting in poor postural habits. The diaphragm can also be compromised with poor posture, which in turn affects breathing patterns.
As osteopaths we will examine and treat any underlying musculoskeletal restrictions. An important part of our treatment plan is to prescribe exercises and to give postural and strengthening advice.
Sports Injuries
While sporting activities are beneficial for children on many levels, sometimes injuries occur. These injuries can be due to trauma, tension or weakness in the physical body that may be relieved with osteopathic treatment. As primary healthcare practitioners, osteopaths are trained extensively in orthopedic testing and palpation which helps us differentiate between muscle, ligament, joint or tendon injuries and refer for further investigation when required. Osteopathic treatment for bone fracture may be beneficial in rehabilitation after fracture.
- Sprained ankle
- Plantar fasciitis
- Osgood Schlatter’s and Sever’s disease
- Groin or hamstring strain
- Lower back injury
- Patella tracking disorder
- Shin splints and compartment syndrome
- Calf strain
- Achilles tendonitis
- Frozen shoulder
- Tennis elbow