Oral Motor, Tongue and Lip Tie Specialist.
The Holistic Approach to Oral Ties
Pre and Post Frenectomy Oral Tie Therapy.
Infant Feeding, Torticollis, Head Shape, Tension and Developmental Expert.
Pediatric Movements
Infant Physical Therapy and Tongue Tie Therapy
Located in the City of Fairfax
I’m Dr. Nalan, a doctor of pediatric physical therapy and oral motor specialist with over 14 years of experience—and a mom myself.
I’m passionate about helping babies feed, move, and develop with confidence. I offer a comprehensive, whole-body approach to feeding challenges, whether your baby is breastfed, bottle-fed, or somewhere in between.
Together, we’ll help your baby feed well, move well, and thrive—meeting milestones with confidence and joy.
Meet Dr. Nalan Gursoy, PT, DPT
Founder and Owner of Pediatric Movements LLC
How we can help your baby
Tongue and Lip Tie Therapy
Highly specialized support for your infant with a tongue or lip tie. Significant improvements in feeding can be made with oral motor therapy and whole body manual therapy before jumping into a release. Reach out for support BEFORE a release for best results.
Torticollis Treatment
If your baby seems to favor turning their head one way, it’s a great time to check in. Early support helps them explore how their whole body moves, encouraging balanced posture and smooth progress toward important motor milestones.
Head Shape Correction
Spotted a flat spot? The earlier we start with play-based techniques and smart positioning, the better the chances of avoiding a helmet later.
Milestone Support
Noticing challenges with tummy time, rolling, crawling, or those first steps? Let us help your little one move with confidence. Every milestone is a celebration, and we’re honored to be part of the journey.
Lactation-Informed Physical Therapy
Compassionate feeding support rooted in a whole-body approach—whether your baby is breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, we’re here to help them feed with ease and comfort.
Why Pre-Release Therapy Is Important Before a Tongue-Tie or Lip-Tie Release
Pre-release therapy helps your baby’s mouth and muscles get ready, making recovery smoother and feeding easier.
Benefits of Pre-Release Therapy
1. Loosens Tight Muscles
Many babies with tongue-tie have extra tension in their jaw, cheeks, or tongue.
Gentle stretches and exercises help release this tension so your baby can move more freely after the procedure.
2. Reduces Gag Sensitivity
Babies with oral restrictions often gag easily when touched under the tongue.
Therapy helps your baby get used to touch in the mouth, so post-release stretches are easier and less stressful.
3. Teaches New Skills
Your baby learns how to:
Cup the tongue around a nipple or finger
Practice sucking more effectively
Begin moving the tongue side-to-side (for chewing later!)
This means your baby is ready to “use their new tongue” right after release.
4. Prevents Old Habits From Sticking
Without therapy, some babies keep using old compensations (like biting or shallow latch) even after the release.
Pre-release work teaches the correct movements so your baby can transition smoothly.
5. Supports Feeding
Better muscle strength and coordination means improved breastfeeding, bottle feeding, and even early solids after the release.
What to expect at your first visit
Parent Interview and Medical History
Birth and delivery history
Feeding history (breast and/or bottle)
Musculoskeletal and Postural Assessment
Head and neck mobility (e.g., turn preference, torticollis)
Oral-facial muscle tone and symmetry
Tummy time tolerance and motor development milestones
Oral Motor Function
Tongue range of motion, coordination, suck strength, palate structure
Breastfeeding and/or Bottle feeding Assessment
Observation of Infant State and Behavior
Response to handling and transitions
Muscle tone and movement patterns
Sensory Processing Considerations
Response to touch and oral stimulation
Sensitivities around face or mouth
Recommendations and Next Steps
Feeding plan adjustments
Positioning and handling strategies
Individualized home exercise program for motor, oral function, and tension release
Referral and collaboration with specialized providers if needed
Contact us to request an appointment.
PEDIATRIC MOVEMENTS
3600 Chain Bridge Rd.
Suite 300
Fairfax, VA, 22030
703-952-0409
nalan@pediatricmovements.net
FAQ’s
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In order to provide prompt, high-quality, one-on-one care without visit limitations by insurance companies, Pediatric Movements is a cash-pay practice to be able to reach more families and to get them results fast without wait times.
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Our initial evaluation can last 60-90 minutes, and follow up appointments are 60 minutes.
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The length of treatment will vary depending on your baby’s age and the severity of the condition. During the initial evaluation, we’ll provide a personalized prognosis and an estimated treatment timeline. Most plans of care typically range from 4 to 6 visits, though this may be adjusted based on your child’s progress. Early intervention leads to faster improvement and more favorable outcomes across all conditions, so we encourage starting therapy as soon as concerns arise.