Osteopathy is a non-invasive and drug-free therapy, which focuses on improving the overall health of a body. This goal is achieved by strengthening the musculoskeletal framework by applying manipulating techniques.
Osteotherapy involves the diagnosis and treatment of the problems related to the spine, muscles, and joints. This is done by aiming at the root cause of the disorder and treating it by removing any stress or tension associated with the circulatory, nervous, and lymphatic systems of a body.
Since this is a manual treatment; hence, the diagnosis and treatment is carried out by using only the hands. It is a therapy, which provides the best possible outcomes with a view to improving the overall health of a patient.
Facts about Osteopathy
Since the therapist study complete osteopathy courses, they are referred to as qualified medical doctors (MDs). These professionals undergo extensive training just like any other complementary therapists.
In order to understand what osteopathy is, just look at these facts
- Osteopathy is a non-invasive manual therapy, which is used to treat the various disorders including pain, discomfort, mobility restrictions and injuries
- Osteotherapy considers a holistic approach when treating the problems
- This therapy involves ‘hands-on’ techniques to address the issues
- It improves circulation and helps to maintain ideal blood pressure
- An osteopath not only aims at a specific area but works on the whole body to stimulate the natural healing ability of a body
- Osteopathic treatment involves manual techniques, which balances the body systems and ensures complete wellbeing
How it Works
While diagnosing and treating a medical condition, the osteopath uses manipulative techniques. In fact, osteotherapy is a non-invasive procedure, which allows the therapists to release the stress and tension experienced by the body.
The techniques applied by the osteopaths include gentle pressure, stretching, and resistance. These are collectively known as osteopathic manipulative techniques. Such techniques help to reduce pain and improve posture.
Apart from this, the patient is also suggested with some exercises to improve mobility. This also includes suggesting warm-up movements. For instance, learning to stretch the body before a workout can reduce the chances of an injury.
Here at Osteopath Sutherland Shire, wealso recommend some lifestyle changes, which can dramatically improve the health and reduce the risk of future disorders. You can prevent injuries by living an active lifestyle. This allows you to enjoy the advantages of healthy living.
Besides, osteopaths may also prescribe some drugs and surgical treatments with a view to treating a specific condition.
Conditions Treated by Osteopathy
Most of the osteopaths also serve in the field of internal medicine, family medicine, and pediatrics. Osteotherapy can treat a variety of conditions, some of them are listed below.
- Elbow, shoulder, and hand pain
- Tennis and golfer’s elbow
- Postural problems due to pregnancy
- Foot, hip, ankle, and knee pain
- Digestive issues, sports injury
- Driving or work strain
- Neck pain, back pain, and sciatica
- Headaches, neuralgia, and arthritis
If an osteopath concludes that a certain condition is not treatable through osteopathy, the patient is referred to a concerned specialist.
Is Osteopathy Effective?
Osteotherapy is not just one treatment; it is a system of a variety of manual therapies. An osteopath utilizes different techniques to treat various disorders. Studies have shown that osteopathy is an effective way to treat various ailments just like any other medical care or physiotherapy treatments.
It helps to reduce the back, neck, shoulder and other varieties of pains in the body. This treatment also minimizes the use of pain medication. The publication of the latest evidence regarding the effectiveness of osteopathy reveals that this treatment can also benefit the patients suffering from irritable bowel syndrome and migraine.
Things to consider when Opting for Osteopathic Treatment
Usually, when you need an osteopath, it is essential to know whether your osteopath is accredited by Osteopathy Australia. You can ask about the license to practice if it is not visible at the clinic or osteotherapy facility.
When a primary care physician or general practitioner refers you to an osteopathic facility, make sure that it holds a good reputation. On the contrary, if you are a self-referring patient, it is essential to inform your GP that you are going to seek an osteopathic treatment.
Make sure that your osteopath offers a patient-centric treatment. This suggests that the osteopath must perform initial consultation prior to offering any treatment. By discussing the health condition of a patient, the osteopath can offer customized treatment to each patient.
Here at Osteopath Sutherland Shire, all our osteopaths are qualified and licensed to offer osteopathic treatment.