Paediatric Osteopathy
for new borns, infants and toddlers
Dr Marlee Koopman is now providing paediatric osteopathy for newborns, babies, and toddlers. After returning from maternity leave and experiencing her own child’s feeding challenges, Marlee completed additional training in osteopathic care for infants to better support local families.
Her treatment approach is calm, gentle, and family-centred — focused on helping babies feel more comfortable while giving parents confidence and reassurance.
If you are searching for an osteopath for babies, infant feeding support, or gentle treatment for unsettled newborns, paediatric osteopathy may help.
How Can Osteopathy Help Babies?
Osteopathy supports the body’s natural development by addressing areas of tension and encouraging healthy movement. Many parents seek osteopathic care when their baby appears uncomfortable, unsettled, or is struggling with feeding or sleep.
Common reasons families may book a baby osteopath appointment include:
Digestive concerns
Feeding difficulties
Other concerns
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Colic
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Reflux
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Wind and excessive flatulence
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Frequent hiccups
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Trouble latching
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Breastfeeding challenges
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Bottle-feeding concerns
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Burping difficulties
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Support alongside tongue tie management
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Sleep disturbances
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Irritability or excessive crying
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Postural preferences
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Movement concerns
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Head shape changes (including flat spots)
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Signs of newborn tension
Signs of newborn tension
Pregnancy and birth can place physical stress on a baby’s body. Sometimes this presents as tension or discomfort.
You may benefit from seeing a paediatric osteopath if your baby shows signs such as:
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Strong head or side preference
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Arching the back or appearing stiff
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Hyperextending or tightly flexing limbs
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Disliking the pram or car seat
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Difficulty settling
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Clenched fists
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Developing a flat spot on the head
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Struggling to lie flat
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Furrowed brows or unhappy facial expressions
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Jerky or uncoordinated movements
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Bruising or swelling following birth interventions
Early assessment may help support your baby’s comfort, feeding, and overall development.
What to expect at your baby's first appointment
Treatment for babies is very different from adult osteopathic care.
Dr Marlee uses extremely gentle techniques, applying light movements — no more pressure than you would use when dressing your baby.
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During the consultation, she may:
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Observe your baby while breastfeeding or bottle-feeding
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Gently assess their suck using a gloved finger
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Check posture, movement, and areas of tension
Treatments can occur while your baby is feeding, cuddling, or even sleeping. Plenty of cuddles are encouraged so parents can settle their baby and ask questions in a relaxed environment.
Your appointment is designed to feel supportive, unrushed, and reassuring for both you and your child.
Book a Baby Osteopath Appointment
If your baby is experiencing feeding difficulties, digestive discomfort, sleep challenges, or unsettled behaviour, paediatric osteopathy may help support their comfort and development.
Early care can make a meaningful difference for both babies and parents.
Book an appointment with Dr Marlee Koopman today and receive gentle, experienced care for your little one.