Babies who are unable or unwilling to nurse properly may benefit from CranioSacral therapy (CST). The causes may include birth injuries, congenital or neurological problems, or the effects of drugs used before the baby’s birth. Circumstances surrounding the birth may be the cause such as a very fast birth, a cesarean birth, the use of vacuum extractor or forceps, an unusual presentation, or a baby with a large head. Even a normal birth can cause trauma to the babies head and spine. Traumatic events during the birth can result in excess pressure on the cranial nerves, particularly those that control the jaw/ tongue/mouth. Compression of these cranial nerves (glossopharyngeal, vagus and hypoglossal) can cause nursing difficulties with babies unable to open their mouths widely enough to latch effectively. These babies can cause pain to the mother by clamping on the nipple.

CST can also be beneficial for babies who are hypertonic with the classic arching posture. Arching or hypertonic babies are considered “tight.” This may be a sign of difficulties with the nervous system, possibly caused by pressure on the nerves that occurred during the birth. CST is often dramatically effective in reducing hypertonic behavior and encouraging the baby to nurse more efficiently by very gently relieving pressure on the nerves.

Babies’ skulls are designed to mold during delivery, enabling them to pass through the birth canal. Typically babies skulls do correct themselves after the birth, although many benefit from assistance in achieving a well-balanced cranial shape . A CST practitioner will gently examine the baby’s head for overlapping cranial sutures, asymmetry, and suture irregularities as well as a whole body assessment for imbalances. The very gentle techniques used in CST encourage the body to correct itself. With under 5g. of pressure (the weight of a nickel) CST is the treatment of choice for babies with latch difficulties as well as many other health concerns. CST practitioners with experience in pediatrics work in collaboration with Lactation Consultants, Midwives, Doulas, Physiotherapists, Chiropractors, Dentists, Medical Doctors, etc

CranioSacral Therapy offers a promising approach to solving difficult breastfeeding problems. It helps bring mothers and babies together in the loving relationship of breastfeeding.

Copyright 2008 Rosemary Brown-Tucker All rights reserved www.networkhealingcentre.com