Every Newborn Needs Bodywork: a comprehensive guide to chiropractic care and craniosacral therapy

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This guide was collaborated with Dr. Madison Mastro, an amazing Webster certified, craniosacral chiropractor. She is a wealth of knowledge, and extremely passionate about babies and moms!

Bodywork for Newborns

You will often hear the term “bodywork” when it comes to pregnant women and newborns. Bodywork is simply a broad, umbrella term for any hands-on technique that helps release tension, improve movement, or support the nervous system. It isn’t one specific treatment. Under this category you’ll find approaches like chiropractic care, craniosacral therapy, infant massage, myofascial release, and physical therapy.

For the purpose of this guide we will focus on the two most common: chiropractic and craniosacral therapy. 

The following is not meant to scare parents because babies are incredibly adaptable, but tension that isn’t addressed doesn’t usually go away on its own. Instead, it can show up in different ways as a child grows. Gentle bodywork helps give babies a clean foundation so their bodies can move, feed, sleep, and grow with less stress, supporting better long-term health and comfort.

What is Chiropractic Care? 

Chiropractic care supports proper communication between the spine and nervous system. When babies or kids have tension or small misalignments (called subluxations), their nerves may end up working harder than necessary. This tension can come from birth, from the way they are carried or sleep, or simply from normal growth and movement. As a result, some babies may show signs like colic, a head tilt, always looking to one side, constipation, trouble latching, or difficulty settling. These are ways their bodies signal that they need help releasing tension they cannot resolve on their own. Kids and adults also benefit from adjustments even when they’re not in pain, because stress on the nervous system builds slowly from posture, sports, falls, school desks, or daily life. Over time this can show up as tight muscles, discomfort, sleep struggles, headaches, or digestive issues. Gentle chiropractic adjustments, which for babies involve only the light pressure you would use to check a ripe avocado, help release tension so the brain and body can communicate more effectively. The goal is to help your child and you feel calmer, sleep better, digest more comfortably, and release stress.

What is Craniosacral Therapy?

Craniosacral therapy is a gentle, hands-on technique that uses very light touch to ease tension in the skull, jaw, neck, spine, and connective tissues throughout the body. It focuses on the subtle movement of the bones, tissues, and fluids around the head and spine to help release restrictions, support the nervous system, and improve the flow of cerebrospinal fluid. Many providers can offer it as long as they are properly trained, including osteopathic doctors, massage therapists, occupational therapists, chiropractors, physical therapists, myofunctional therapists, and IBCLCs. For newborns and children, it is often used to ease strain from birth, support feeding and comfort, and encourage natural, relaxed movement.

Chiropractic Care vs Craniosacral Therapy

Chiropractic care and craniosacral therapy both support newborns, but they work on different layers of the body. Chiropractic care focuses on the spine, the joints, and how well the nervous system is communicating, using very gentle pressure, similar to checking a ripe tomato, to restore normal motion and ease nerve tension. This can support feeding, digestion, sleep, and head shape because the nerves can function the way they should. Craniosacral therapy focuses more on the soft tissues like fascia and membranes, as well as the subtle rhythm around the brain and spinal cord. It helps release deeper, quieter tension patterns from birth or positioning, which can improve latch, suck-swallow coordination, head turning, and overall calming of the nervous system. One isn’t necessarily better than the other because they address different needs, and most newborns benefit from both, especially after a tough birth, when they show tension patterns, or when they are preparing for or recovering from an oral-tie release. Chiropractic care supports the structure, while craniosacral therapy supports the soft tissues, and using them together gives a more complete approach that helps babies feed and move more comfortably.

Why Bodywork for C-Section Babies

I believe it is of utmost importance that all babies receive bodywork within the first few weeks of life, but especially c-section babies. During a vaginal delivery, babies pass through the birth canal, which naturally helps shape and mobilize their skull, spine, and connective tissues. The gentle compression and decompression of the head and body allow the cranial bones to move and adapt, supporting normal cerebrospinal fluid flow and relieving tension in the nervous system. This process also helps clear fluid from the lungs, encourages balanced muscle tone, and provides a natural reset for the baby’s nervous system. Babies born via C-section do not experience this process and may have subtle restrictions or tension in the head, neck, and spine. Many babies also spend weeks in one position before birth, which can lead to tight neck muscles, a preference for turning the head to one side, or a slightly curved posture. 

During a C-section, babies are often lifted by the head, neck, or shoulder, which can create additional strain in the upper neck, jaw, and spine. As a result, C-section babies may have more mucus, congestion, and difficulty settling in the early days. Bodywork, such as craniosacral therapy or gentle chiropractic care, can help by restoring normal motion in the spine, releasing tension in the head, jaw, neck, and connective tissues, and supporting the nervous system. This support can make feeding easier, help babies turn their heads evenly, aid digestion, improve sleep, and increase overall comfort as they adjust to life outside the womb.

Why Bodywork for Vaginal Babies

Vaginal birth is a beautiful and natural process, but it is also a big physical event for a newborn. Even the smoothest birth involves pressure, rotation, and squeezing, which can create tension patterns in a baby’s body. Babies need to rotate through the pelvis, which can cause tightness in the neck, shoulders, and spine. Their heads also mold to fit through the birth canal, which can compress certain cranial bones and sometimes affect jaw movement and latch during feeding.

Different birth experiences can add extra strain. Long labors, very fast labors, the use of vacuum or forceps, or pushing for a long time can all put stress on the neck, jaw, and upper back. Even after what seems like a perfect birth, babies can show signs of tension such as a preference for turning their head to one side, latch challenges, gassiness, or a curved C-shaped posture.

Bodywork like chiropractic care and craniosacral therapy can help babies adjust after birth. Chiropractic care gently restores normal motion in the spine, which helps the nervous system communicate properly so babies can feed, digest, and sleep more comfortably. Craniosacral therapy releases subtle tension in the head, jaw, and neck from molding and rotation, supporting latch, suck, and overall calm.

Both types of bodywork help balance the nervous system after the big transition from womb to world. They also support symmetry in the body, helping babies avoid favoring one side, which can prevent flat spots or torticollis patterns. Overall, gentle bodywork gives babies a better start by easing tension, supporting feeding and digestion, and helping them settle more comfortably into life outside the womb

Feeding and Oral Function

Many common newborn struggles can often be improved or even prevented with gentle bodywork like chiropractic care or craniosacral therapy. These struggles usually trace back to tension, alignment issues, or a nervous system that’s still finding its balance. Dr. Mastro often sees these patterns in babies in her practice.

Feeding and oral function are one of the most common areas parents notice. Babies may have a shallow latch, click while nursing, get tired quickly at the breast, prefer one side, or have trouble coordinating suck, swallow, and breathe. Gassiness from air intake is another common sign. Chiropractic care can help with jaw alignment, tongue motion influenced by neck tension, and overall spinal and nervous system coordination. Craniosacral therapy can release cranial molding, jaw tension, and tight fascia around the mouth and tongue.

And important note!!! If you suspect a tongue or lip tie, or receive a diagnosis from anyone STOP. First, you need to make sure you are being diagnosed by a properly trained airway dentist. I cannot tell you how many providers make a diagnosis who have absolutely no idea what they are doing. Second, you should NOT move forward with a release unless you have been both an IBCLC and craniosacral therapist. If your diagnosing provider is not recommending either of these, it’s time to find a new provider.

• Read the following before moving forward with any release!!!

  • TONGUE TIE GUIDE FOR INFANTS

  • TONGUE TIE GUIDE FOR CHILDREN/ADULTS

Head and Neck Issues

Head and neck issues are also very common. Babies might tilt their head to one side, have flat spots, struggle to lift or turn their head, or arch their back when held or fed. Chiropractors can restore neck and upper spine motion and reduce nerve irritation, while craniosacral therapy can ease cranial bone compression and release deep fascial patterns behind the head and jaw.

Digestive Struggles

Digestive struggles like colic, reflux, frequent spit-up, constipation, or discomfort with gas can also be linked to tension and alignment. Chiropractic care can improve nerve flow to the digestive system, and craniosacral therapy can release abdominal and diaphragmatic tension that affects digestion.

Sleep and Regulation

Sleep and regulation are another area where bodywork can help. Babies who have trouble falling or staying asleep, startle easily, or have difficulty settling after feeds may benefit. Chiropractic care helps calm the nervous system by addressing spinal tension, and craniosacral therapy supports deep relaxation, the vagus nerve, and overall body tension.

Breathing and Congestion

Finally, breathing and congestion issues can also be improved. Babies with noisy breathing, persistent congestion not caused by illness, or difficulty clearing fluid (especially those born by C-section) can benefit. Chiropractic care supports rib cage and upper spine alignment for easier breathing, and craniosacral therapy can help with fluid movement, sinus drainage, and cranial function.

Other signs that bodywork might help include body asymmetry or tension, like a C-shaped curve, tight shoulders or fists that don’t relax, or stiffness during diaper changes and dressing. Chiropractors help balance the spine and improve motion, while craniosacral therapy gently unwinds stored birth tension in fascia and soft tissues.

What About Mama?

Chiropractic care during pregnancy can be incredibly helpful for supporting an optimal delivery. Finding a chiropractor who is trained in the Webster technique is especially important. Webster chiropractic care is a gentle, pregnancy-specific approach that helps balance the pelvis, ease ligament tension, and support baby’s ideal positioning. It keeps your body moving and functioning as it’s designed to while your baby grows.

Many moms start Webster care around 12 to 16 weeks so their pelvis can adapt smoothly as the baby grows, but it’s never too late, even at 30 weeks. The sooner you begin, the more time your body has to stay balanced and comfortable. Keeping the pelvis aligned allows more space for baby to move into the best position, which can lead to a smoother and more efficient labor. When the sacrum and pelvis move well, contractions can work more effectively, and baby can rotate and descend with less resistance. Releasing tension in the round ligaments and pelvic muscles also reduces the chances of baby settling posterior, which can slow labor or increase back labor.

Chiropractic adjustments also help support the nervous system, which can improve hormone flow such as oxytocin and endorphins, contributing to a calmer labor experience. When your body is aligned and mobile, you can move more comfortably during labor, and movement is one of the best tools for progressing birth.

Adjustments are just as important postpartum, no matter the type of delivery. Birth shifts your entire structure. Pelvis, ribs, core, and ligaments all need to stabilize again while you’re feeding and caring for your newborn. Postpartum chiropractic care can help rebalance the pelvis, support pelvic floor recovery, reduce neck and shoulder tension from holding and feeding your baby, improve mobility and healing after a C-section, support your nervous system and hormones, and ease pain as your body returns to normal function.

Many moms also bring their babies to appointments. This helps relieve stress knowing both mom and baby are being checked at the same time, and it saves the challenge of finding childcare in the early weeks. It’s a gentle, supportive way to care for your body and your baby as you transition through pregnancy, birth, and early postpartum life.

How to Find a Qualified Provider?

Unfortunately, just like with tongue and lip tie providers, there are some practitioners out there who may not have the training or experience needed to safely and effectively work with newborns. 

What to Look for in a Chiropractor

If you’re seeking chiropractic care during pregnancy or for your baby, there are a few key things to check. First, look for someone certified in the Webster Technique, which is a pregnancy-specific approach that helps balance the pelvis and support optimal baby positioning. Additional pediatric training through reputable programs, like the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA), is another important factor.

Experience working with newborns is essential. Ask whether the chiropractor regularly treats babies, not just families in general. A gentle, low-force adjusting style is critical for newborns, and it’s helpful if the provider works collaboratively with lactation consultants, midwives, or pediatric therapists. Reputable credentials to look for include “Webster Certified,” “ICPA Member,” “Pediatric Training through the ICPA,” or “CACCP” (advanced pediatric certification, while not required, is very reputable).

What to Look for in a Craniosacral Therapist

Craniosacral therapy can be incredibly helpful for babies with feeding issues, oral ties, torticollis, or birth trauma. When searching for a CST, prioritize someone with experience addressing these issues and who allows parents to be present during sessions. CST should always be gentle and responsive, never forceful. Some therapists may hold, rock, or even allow nursing while working with the baby to ensure the session follows the child’s natural flow. Pro tip: find a chiropractor who specializes in craniosacral therapy, so you can make them a one stop shop. 

Questions to Ask Any Provider

When you’re interviewing a provider, here are some questions that can help you determine if they’re a good fit:

• How much of your practice is dedicated to babies and pregnant moms?

• Do you work with oral ties, feeding or latch issues, torticollis, or colic?

• What should I expect during the first visit?

• How gentle are your techniques, and can I stay with my baby the entire time?

• Do you collaborate with lactation consultants, pediatric dentists, or midwives?

• How long have you been treating infants?

• Do you offer individualized care plans, or is it a one-size-fits-all approach?

  
  

Overwhelmed? Ask ChatGPT.

I know some people are rolling their eyes. This was me for the longest time. But I’m telling you, ChatGPT can be incredibly helpful for the overwhelmed parent. Don’t take anything it says as fact, but use it as a tool to start. If it were me, I would put in the following prompt and then review/interview their suggestions. I have done this a few times with tongue tie providers, and have been pleasantly surprised. 

Find chiropractors near me who:

-are Webster certified

-are Craniosacral Therapy certified

-work with infants

-is trained though the International Pediatric Chiropractic Association 

Here are the results I got. I personally saw Uprise Chiropractic during my pregnancy, and can vouch they are an exceptional choice, so props to ChatGPT. But if I didn’t already know this, I would then go to each of the suggested websites and review the ins and outs, or even call/email them with all my questions to decipher if they would be a good fit or not.