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Postnatal, osteopathic care
Who we care for

Postnatal Osteopathy in Christchurch

For aches that haven't settled since the birth and make every feed, lift, and broken-sleep day harder. Gentle Osteopathy that meets you where you are post-birth, adapted to feeding posture and recovery stage.

No referral needed Gentle, tailored care Same-day appointments often available

Common postnatal concerns

Postnatal life has a recognisable pattern of new aches and old ones that won't quite let go. Most of the people we see post-birth describe two or more of the concerns on the right.

Recognising any of these? We treat exactly this pattern, alongside your recovery. Book in and we'll build a plan that fits postnatal life as it actually is.

Book a postnatal consult

What's often going on

We treat postnatal patients as a recovery process, not a quick fix.

  • 01 Recovering from birth: the body is rebuilding after nine months of change and the birth itself
  • 02 Feeding and carrying postures: hours looking down and lifting load the neck, shoulders, wrists, and upper back
  • 03 Core and pelvic-floor recovery: abdominal separation and pelvic-floor changes take time and the right loading
  • 04 Broken sleep and little recovery time: tissues stay sensitive when rest is scarce, so things feel stuck on

The clearer we are on what's driving things, the sooner we can help you move and feel better.

Book a postnatal consult

How we care for you

Care built around you

We assess the whole picture: the painful areas, the daily loading patterns from feeding and lifting, your sleep and recovery capacity, and what you actually want to get back to. The plan is tailored to you: settle things down, build the support you need, and keep you moving comfortably.

What we assess

  • Lower back, pelvis, and hip recovery patterns
  • Upper back, neck, and shoulders (the feeding-and-looking-down chain)
  • Wrist and thumb load (lifting, feeding positioning)
  • Abdominal recovery and gentle return-to-core-loading readiness
  • Sleep, energy, and recovery capacity (because they shape what's reasonable)
01 Relief

Ease the discomfort

Ease pain, tension, and irritation so daily care of your baby feels easier.

02 Recover

Support your healing

Support your body's healing through positioning, movement, and tailored treatment.

03 Rebuild

Return to strength

Gradual progression back to strength and capacity for the activities you want to return to.

Meet your care team

Every osteopath at Better Health Osteopathy is registered with the Osteopathic Council of New Zealand and follows the same evidence-informed approach to assessment, treatment and care.

Experienced osteopaths you can trust

Whoever you see, you will receive the same thorough assessment, hands-on treatment and personalised care plan. We work as one team to help you feel and move better.

  • Over 60,000 consultations
  • Helping Christchurch for over 10 years
  • Registered OCNZ osteopaths
  • Same-day appointments often available

Real stories from Christchurch patients

There is no better measure of our care than the experiences of the people we have helped. Here is what Christchurch patients say about their care.

★★★★★
"I started at Better Health Osteopathy 3 weeks ago. Sam, on reception was exceptionally helpful, even calling one of the osteopath's out to answer my questions and putting my mind at ease. Ella, the osteopath assigned to me is amazing. I would totally recommend her and the practice."

Brian and Linda Cousins

★★★★★
"I’ve been seeing Lorraine for several years now and she is nothing short of a miracle worker. No matter what I walk in with - aches, pains or something that just feels “off” - she always knows exactly what to do and somehow gets my body back on track every single time. Beyond her incredible skill and knowledge, Lorraine is an absolute delight. She creates such a warm, welcoming environment and genuinely cares about her clients. You never feel rushed - she takes the time to listen, understand and treat the root of the problem. As both the clinic owner and manager, it’s clear she pours her heart into Better Health Osteopathy and it shows in every aspect of the experience. If you’re looking for someone you can truly trust with your body, Lorraine is the one. I wouldn’t go anywhere else!"

Stewart Wilson

★★★★★
"Such an awesome clinic. Fixed me every time and helps me to feel stronger and healthier as a result. Couldn’t recommend more. They are worth their weight in gold."

Mel Stopford

★★★★★
"I have been going to Better Health Osteopathy for just on three years. Lorraine, my osteopath, is amazing. She is extremely professional and caring. She has helped me greatly. She listens and explains all the treatment she is going to give me. I have no hesitation in recommending Lorraine and Better Health Osteopathy to anyone who needs treatment. The whole team are welcoming and friendly."

Jo Rait

What to expect at your first visit

Our goal is simple: give you answers, explain what will help, and make the next step easy.

30 minutes

Enough time to listen, assess, and explain, without rushing.

Bring

Comfortable clothing you can move in, and any scans or letters that are relevant.

You will leave knowing

What is going on and a simple, tailored plan to take away.

No referral needed

Self-refer and book directly, with no GP letter required.

  • What's actually going on?
  • Why is it happening now?
  • What will actually help?
  • What can I do day to day?
  • What's the best plan from here?

We will explain everything in plain English, answer your questions, and make sure you understand your options before we start.

New here? See what to expect at your first visit , or see our fees .

Book your visit

Care that fits your life

Tell us what is going on and we will tailor a plan that fits you. It varies with your recovery and your goals.

  • No referral needed
  • Gentle, tailored care
  • Same-day appointments often available

FAQs about postnatal care

How soon after birth can I start Osteopathy?

Many people start within the first weeks for general comfort and recovery support. Treatment is adapted to where you are post-birth (vaginal vs caesarean, healing stage). We will tailor everything to your situation.

Can Osteopathy help with feeding-related pain?

Often yes. Sustained feeding postures load the neck, upper back, wrists, and shoulders. We assess and treat the painful areas plus give you positioning and habit suggestions that reduce strain.

What about pelvic floor and core recovery?

We assess how the pelvis, lower back, and abdomen are recovering and can guide gentle return-to-load. For pelvic floor specifically, we may co-refer to a women's health physiotherapist when that's the right next step.

Can I bring my baby to the appointment?

Yes. Many parents bring their babies to appointments, especially in early postnatal weeks. We are used to working around feeds, naps, and cuddles.

Do I need a referral from my midwife or GP?

No. You can book directly. If we feel medical input is needed, we will guide that.

Will treatment include exercises?

Often yes. Gentle, postnatal-appropriate movement and strengthening is usually part of long-term recovery. We progress at your pace.

What can help between visits

Small, safe steps that usually ease day-to-day comfort while you wait for your first appointment.

Change feeding positions

Vary your positions through the day to avoid sustained loading on one area.

Use pillows generously

Support your back, neck, and arms during feeds.

Short walks when you can

Gentle movement helps recovery more than total rest.

Lift with intention

Keep loads close, use your legs, and avoid twisted lifting from car seats.

When to get checked

Some signs need medical care

These are uncommon, and we screen for them at every visit. But if any apply, they need medical care rather than Osteopathy.

If any of these apply, contact your midwife, Plunket nurse, or GP straight away. In an emergency, call 111.

  • Heavy or increasing vaginal bleeding, or passing large clots
  • Fever or chills, or a wound that is hot, swollen, or leaking
  • Severe or persistent headache, or changes in your vision
  • Pain, redness, or swelling in one calf
  • Low mood, anxiety, or distressing thoughts (please reach out early, you are not alone)

Conditions we commonly help with for postnatal

If you come to us for postnatal care, these are the patterns we most often help with. Explore how we approach each.