Episode Overview

The Uncommon Path: Specializing in Pediatric Osteopathy

This week, Kianna sits down with Megan Palmer, a highly trained osteopath from Mulberry Wellness and Mulberry Minis, whose extensive focus in pediatrics sets her apart in a field where infant-specific training is still uncommon. Megan shares what led her to pursue this path, the depth of education required, and why she is so passionate about supporting babies and families through gentle, evidence-informed manual therapy.

Understanding Fascia and Infant Movement

Kianna and Megan dive into one of the most misunderstood aspects of infant well-being: fascia. Megan explains how tightness, tension, and restrictions in the fascial system can influence a baby’s feeding, digestion, sleep, comfort, and overall movement. She breaks down what parents often notice at home—arching, stiffness, difficulty settling, feeding challenges—and how osteopathic care assesses the whole body to understand why those patterns are happening.

Tongue & Lip Ties: Before and After Care

One of the most requested topics for new parents is the impact of tongue and lip ties. Megan discusses how fascial tension influences breastfeeding, bottle feeding, latch issues, and oral function. She explains what osteopathic treatment can do before a release to prepare the tissues, and how aftercare supports healing, mobility, and successful feeding outcomes. This segment is full of practical guidance for parents feeling overwhelmed by tie-related challenges.

Torticollis, Head Shape & Newborn Tightness

The conversation moves into common concerns Megan sees in babies: • Torticollis • Flat head shape / plagiocephaly • Preference to look one direction • Body tightness from birth or pregnancy positioning • Discomfort when lying on their back

Megan explains how these patterns develop, what parents can look for, and how osteopathic techniques work to gently release restrictions and restore balanced movement. Her explanations help parents understand that babies’ bodies tell a story — and with the right approach, those stories can be supported with comfort and ease.

Individualized Care Through Gentle Manual Treatment

Throughout the episode, Megan emphasizes that osteopathic care is never one-size-fits-all. Each baby receives a full assessment that guides a tailored plan based on their unique needs, birth history, feeding experience, and body tension patterns. Using a variety of gentle manual therapies, osteopaths aim to support the body’s natural ability to heal and function optimally.

Megan’s perspective is empowering for any parent navigating feeding concerns, tension, digestive issues, or simply wanting to understand their baby’s body better.

Follow Busy Mom Talk on Instagram for more episodes and expert conversations. Share this episode with a parent who’s navigating feeding challenges, newborn tightness, or is curious about osteopathic care.