An osteopathic approach to adolescence

Adolescence represents one of the most complex and dynamic stages of human development. Rapid skeletal growth, neurological maturation, hormonal changes and psychological and social transformations can profoundly affect the health and wellbeing of young patients.

During this period, musculoskeletal, orthopaedic, neurological, respiratory and dentofacial issues frequently arise, requiring a thorough clinical assessment and an in-depth understanding of growth and adaptation processes.

This intensive three-day programme has been designed to provide osteopaths with the tools necessary to address the most common clinical presentations in adolescence competently and confidently, developing a therapeutic approach based on clinical reasoning, interdisciplinary collaboration and a person-centred approach.

Understanding the adolescent: beyond the symptom

Adolescence is not merely a phase of physical growth, but a period of profound biological, neurological and emotional reorganisation.

The course explores the relationships between:

• Skeletal growth and musculoskeletal adaptation
• Maturation of the central nervous system
• Endocrine and pubertal changes
• Development of cognitive and emotional abilities
• Stress, adaptation and resilience
• Impact of chronic conditions on development and quality of life

The aim is to provide a comprehensive overview of the adolescent, enabling the osteopath to understand the clinical significance of different presentations and to play an appropriate role within the overall therapeutic pathway.

Musculoskeletal and orthopaedic conditions

A significant part of the course will be devoted to orthopaedic and musculoskeletal issues frequently observed during growth.

The following will be explored in depth:

• Spinal dysfunctions
• Problems of the hip, knee and foot
• Upper limb disorders
• Scoliosis
• Scheuermann’s disease
• Spondylolisthesis
• Osteochondrosis
• Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)
• Proximal femoral epiphysiolysis (slippage of the upper femoral epiphysis)
• Avascular necrosis of the hip

Osteopathic approach

Participants will explore the clinical application of:

• Structural techniques
• Osteopathy in the cranial region
• Myofascial release
• Balanced ligament tension techniques
• Pain management strategies
• Support for the regulation of inflammatory processes

Neurological and neurodevelopmental conditions

Adolescence is often a phase in which certain neurological or neurodevelopmental conditions take on new clinical manifestations and require new management approaches.

The course will explore:

• Headaches and craniofacial pain
• Head injury and concussion
• Epilepsy
• Cerebral palsy
• Down’s syndrome
• Muscular dystrophies
• Peripheral and metabolic neuropathies
• Multiple sclerosis
• Neurodiversity (ASD, ADHD and other neurodevelopmental conditions)

Particular attention will be paid to understanding the influences of the central and autonomic nervous systems, spinal and sacral dynamics, diaphragmatic function and their relationship to growth and functional development.

Osteopathic approach

• Cranial and functional techniques
• Strategies to support nervous system regulation
• Osteopathic management of persistent pain
• Complementary support for progressive neurological conditions

Growth, respiration and systemic development

The development of dentofacial growth, respiratory function and craniocervical structures can significantly influence an adolescent’s wellbeing.

The following topics will be explored in depth:

• Dentofacial growth and development
• ENT changes
• Respiratory function and its alterations
• Asthma and persistent respiratory problems
• Impact of pubertal growth on overall function

Osteopathic approach

• Cranial techniques
• Respiratory techniques
• Functional integration strategies
• Collaboration with orthodontists, physiotherapists and other healthcare professionals

Psychological aspects and emotional wellbeing

Adolescence is a stage in which emotional distress can manifest itself through physical symptoms, behavioural changes or changes in quality of life.

The course will explore:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Stress and adaptive overload
• The psychological impact of chronic conditions
• Possible manifestations of progressive neurological disorders

An integrated and collaborative approach

One of the fundamental principles of the course is an awareness of the role of osteopathy within a multidisciplinary care pathway.

Many of the conditions addressed during the programme are already the subject of medical diagnosis and specialist treatment. Osteopathic intervention is therefore regarded as a complementary form of support, integrated and tailored to the needs of the individual patient.

Particular attention will be paid to:

• Clinical safety
• Recognition of red flags
• Interdisciplinary collaboration
• Communication with families and healthcare professionals
• Setting realistic treatment goals

Skills developed

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Understand the main clinical issues affecting adolescents
• Assess adolescent patients appropriately
• Apply clinical reasoning based on development and growth
• Integrate structural, functional and cranial approaches safely
• Collaborate effectively with other healthcare professionals
• Recognise the limitations of osteopathic intervention and the indications for referral
• Support the young patient within a holistic, person-centred approach

A course guided by Julie Fendall’s clinical experience

The programme is led by Julie Fendall, an osteopath with extensive clinical and teaching experience in paediatric osteopathy.

With many years’ experience in the assessment and treatment of newborns, infants and children, Julie has trained osteopaths in numerous international settings, contributing to the promotion of a paediatric approach based on clinical reasoning, patient safety and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Her direct experience with numerous clinical cases enables her to consistently integrate theory with practical examples, real-life cases and strategies that can be immediately applied in professional practice.