Managing Infant Expectations
For infant providers the vast majority of parents are completely understanding of our work. On occasion, there may be some pushback.
The biggest therapeutic issue in their mind is that their infant is not healing fast enough. “Can you please just fix my baby.” No, I can’t.
I am totally dependent on the fascial web remembering all of its traumas over the 40 weeks and being able to revisit each one. I am just listening to the body and facilitating authentic healing.
You cannot force healing like I am going to fix your baby’s neck on this visit. As your infant directs the healing, I allow it to happen in its own space and time.
Even with free treatment, we saw impatience on a large scale during our Lancaster infant research from 2006 to 2012. Originally, we started with 405 babies, and 332 completed therapy. Of the 73 who dropped out, most were not getting better fast enough.
I tell parents on the first office visit that they are looking at 5 to 8 weekly visits for the typical fussy baby. A deep-seated arching condition may take more visits. During that time I expect that their infant will transform from a fussy baby to a happy baby.
I may also need to explain that these incurable infant conditions perplex the best doctors and hospitals in the world. Since I do not have all the answers in this pioneering stage, an unusual condition make take more visits to resolve.
Parents need to realize their baby is very fortunate. Globally 134 million babies are born every year, with 4 million born in America. Only a tiny percentage, including your baby, receive treatment. It is a special gift.
Our Lancaster infant research from 2006 to 2012 revealed many of nature’s subtle secrets. Now in my 70s, I continue to experience joy in sharing what is possible for newborns. Practicality is not my strong point; I am a romantic, believing in my vision even if it seems unrealistic. I am just waiting for the world to see its promise.
Gillespie Approach–Craniosacral Fascial Therapy Articles on Health Conditions
