Osteopathic Approach to the Older Child and Adolescent

Puberty and adolescence represent a crucial and complex phase of human development, characterised by profound physical, neurological, emotional and relational changes.

The three day intensive course aims to offer an in-depth clinical and therapeutic study of the main manifestations that may arise in this age group, with a specific focus on the integration of the osteopathic approach within a multidisciplinary treatment context.

The aim of the course is to provide participants with practical and theoretical tools to recognise, understand and treat, through targeted osteopathic techniques, some of the most common musculoskeletal, neurological, respiratory, dento-facial and psychological problems that occur in the developmental age.

The main osteopathic therapeutic approaches applicable to this age group will be presented and analysed, including:

• Osteopathy in the cranial area
• Myofascial release
• Balancing Ligament Tension Techniques (BLT)

The three days of training will be divided into thematic and clinical areas:

• Day 1 - Focus on musculoskeletal and orthopaedic problems with special attention to frequent problems such as scoliosis, osteochondrosis, epiphysiolysis and juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Structural and cranial techniques for pain and inflammation management will be presented.
• Day 2 - Insight into the approach to neurological disorders including headache, muscular dystrophies, neuropathy, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy and neurodivergence (ASD, ADHD). Cranial and functional osteopathic techniques for neurological support and modulation of nervous system activity will be demonstrated.
• Day 3 - Exploration of systemic conditions and growth-related changes, including respiratory, dento-facial and psychological problems. Respiratory and cranial techniques will be proposed with a view to integration with specialist medicine.

The course emphasises the role of osteopathy as a complementary and non-substitutive treatment, capable of making a concrete contribution to the overall well-being of children and adolescents, working in synergy with medical and health professionals.

Participation is aimed at osteopaths who wish to enrich their skills in the management of developmental patients by adopting a sensitive, adaptive and evidence-based approach.

Programme

Day 1: Musculoskeletal & Orthopaedic Conditions

Topics to be covered:

• Common musculoskeletal, orthopaedic, and inflammatory conditions
• Spine, hips, knees, feet, and upper extremity issues
• Scoliosis
• Scheuermann’s
• Spondylolisthesis
• Osteochondrosis
• Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)
• Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis
• Avascular Necrosis of the HIp

Osteopathic Approaches:

• Structural and cranial techniques for orthopaedic dysfunction
• Pain management and inflammation modulation

Day 2: Neurological Presentations

Topics Covered:

• Headaches, head injury, and concussion

Neurological conditions including:

• Muscular dystrophies
• Peripheral and metabolic neuropathies
• Multiple sclerosis
• Epilepsy
• Neurodiversity (e.g., ASD, ADHD)

Osteopathic Approaches:

• Cranial and functional techniques for pain management nervous system regulation
• Supportive care for diagnosed progressive conditions

Day 3: Growth-Related and Systemic Conditions

Topics Covered:

• Dentofacial growth ENT and respiratory changes
• Respiratory conditions: E.g. Asthma

Later presentations of:

• Cerebral Palsy
• Down’s Syndrome and other Genetic Disorders
• Neuromuscular disorders
• Epilepsy

Considerations of the Changes in puberty

Psychological presentations:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Possible manifestations of progressive neurological conditions

Osteopathic Approaches:

• Cranial and respiratory techniques
• Adjunctive care integrated with medical management

Important Notes

• Many severe conditions will already have a medical diagnosis and existing interventions.
• Osteopathic care is positioned as a complementary and adjunctive therapy.
• Treatment approaches should be adaptable and collaborative, depending on individual case presentations.

Please Note

• Principles of treatment of musculoskeletal, orthopaedic and neurological conditions will be discussed without going into depth for all presentations and conditions.
• Suggested Reading and References will be provided prior to the course.
• Self-directed research and sourcing of materials for various conditions is also recommended.