How does OMT differ in approach when treating adults versus children?

Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT) recognizes the differences in anatomy, physiology, and psychological factors between adults and children. In treating children, practitioners typically adjust their techniques to be more gentle and specific. This is important because children’s bodies are still developing, and they often respond differently to manual therapy compared to adults.

The approach in treating children may involve lighter pressure and shorter treatment sessions, considering their smaller size, delicate structures, and varying tolerance to manipulation. Children might also be more susceptible to fear or anxiety related to medical treatments, thus requiring an approach that is considerate of their emotional state.

In contrast, adults may require more robust techniques due to their fully developed musculoskeletal structures and potential chronic conditions that might benefit from deeper manipulation. Hence, the adaptability of treatment techniques aligns with the need to provide an appropriate level of care tailored to the individual patient’s age and physical condition.