What is colic?

Colic is a term used to describe episodes of excessive crying in an otherwise healthy baby.

It typically:

• Begins within the first few weeks of life
• Peaks around 6–8 weeks
• Improves by around 3–4 months of age

Babies with colic are otherwise generally healthy, feeding and growing normally.

During an episode, your baby may:

• Cry intensely, often in the late afternoon or evening
• Pull their knees up towards their tummy
• Clench their fists
• Arch their back
• Become red in the face
• Seem difficult to comfort

Although it can feel overwhelming, colic is usually a temporary developmental phase.

What causes colic?

There isn't one single cause, and experts believe several factors may contribute.

These may include:

• An immature digestive system : A baby's digestive system continues to develop after birth. This may contribute to temporary digestive discomfort or increased sensitivity.

• Swallowing air during feeding: Some babies swallow more air while feeding, particularly if they have a shallow latch, a fast milk flow or feed quickly. This may increase wind and abdominal discomfort.

• Developing nervous system: Newborn babies are still learning to regulate sensory input. Some babies may become overwhelmed more easily and express this through prolonged crying.

• Feeding challenges: Issues such as positioning, latch or tongue function may affect feeding efficiency and comfort for some babies.

• Reflux: Some babies with reflux may experience symptoms similar to colic, although many babies who bring up milk are completely comfortable and do not require treatment.

Less commonly, symptoms may be related to conditions such as cow's milk protein allergy, which should be assessed by a healthcare professional if suspected.

Can osteopathy help babies with colic?

This is a question we are asked regularly.

The simple answer is that osteopathy is not a recognised treatment or cure for colic, and the current research is still evolving.

However, some studies suggest osteopathic treatment may reduce crying time or improve comfort in some babies, while other studies have found little difference. Overall, more high-quality research is needed before firm conclusions can be made.

Many parents tell us they notice improvements in their baby's comfort, feeding or settling after treatment, although every baby is different and these changes cannot be guaranteed.

What does a paediatric osteopath assess?

Rather than treating "colic" itself, an osteopath looks at factors that may influence your baby's comfort and movement.

Your assessment may include:

• Pregnancy and birth history
• Feeding assessment
• Neck movement and head turning
• Overall posture and movement
• Jaw and rib cage mobility
• Areas of muscular or joint tension
• General development

Babies can experience physical stresses during pregnancy and birth, whether they were born vaginally, by assisted delivery or by caesarean section. Where appropriate, treatment aims to improve comfort and mobility using gentle manual techniques.

Treatment is always adapted to your baby's age and needs.

Is osteopathy safe for babies?

When provided by an appropriately trained osteopath experienced in treating babies, osteopathic treatment is generally considered safe.

Treatment is extremely gentle and should never be forceful or painful.

Your osteopath will always carry out a thorough assessment first and will refer you to your GP, health visitor or paediatrician if your baby's symptoms suggest further medical assessment is needed.

When should you seek medical advice?

Although colic is common, not all crying is due to colic.

You should seek prompt medical assessment if your baby has:

• A fever
• Poor feeding
• Persistent vomiting, particularly green or projectile vomiting
• Blood in their stool
• Difficulty breathing
• Fewer wet nappies than expected
• Poor weight gain
• Excessive sleepiness or lethargy
• A swollen or firm tummy
• Any symptoms that concern you

If you are ever unsure, trust your instincts and seek medical advice.

Supporting your baby at home

While every baby is different, some parents find these strategies helpful:

• Burp your baby during and after feeds
• Keep your baby upright after feeding
• Check feeding position and latch
• Try skin-to-skin contact
• Gentle rocking or carrying
• White noise or calming sounds
• Looking after yourself and accepting support from family and friends

Remember that colic is temporary, even though it can feel endless while you're living through it.

How Osteopathy West London may be able to help

At Osteopathy West London, we provide gentle paediatric osteopathic assessments for babies and infants.

Our aim is not to cure colic but to assess your baby's movement, comfort and feeding mechanics, while ensuring there are no signs that require onward medical referral.

We take time to understand your baby's birth history, feeding, sleep and development, answer your questions and provide practical advice to support both you and your baby.

If you're unsure whether osteopathy is appropriate for your baby, we're always happy to discuss your concerns before you book.

If you would like to learn more about our paediatric osteopathy services or arrange an appointment, you can do so here