Objective:
This study is to verify that the use of osteopathy on the problematic nature of babies with 3-months-colic is an effective alternative to conventional therapy. As a guideline, existing differences between babies with 3-months-colic and not affected children shall be demonstrated.
Design:
This is a controlled, randomised, prospective intervention-study (1) and a subsequent explorative survey (2).
Setting:
One therapist educated at COE Munich, one therapist educated at College Sutherland.
Patients:
1. 46 patients were selected at random, 23 of which were treated with osteopathy and 22 conventionally. 2. Explorative study with a total of 90 patients
Intervention:
4 treatments in weekly intervals. (with osteopathy and conventional).
Main outcome measures:
1. Duration of crying and intensity, 2. Evaluation of questionnaires
Results:
Use of osteopathy shows an overall improvement of approx. 55% regarding primary and secondary target-parameters. Osteopathy demonstrates a higher effectiveness of approx. 40% versus conventional therapy with regard to both target-parameters. Explorative study: The smoking of mothers during pregnancy increases occurrence of 3-months-colic of the baby- Children with 3-month-colic are described as increasingly restless. They vomit more frequently and suffer from excessive flatulence and congestion.
Conclusion:
Osteopathy is an effective alternative for children with 3-month-colic.