Osteopathy is a holistic approach to healthcare. It uses manual ‘hands-on’ techniques to improve circulation and correct the body’s biomechanics, without the use of drugs. Osteopathic treatment is typically provided through hands-on, manual therapy. The practitioner uses their hands to assess, diagnose, and treat various conditions through their deep understanding of the interconnections between the systems of the body.
In particular, Osteopathy treats a patient’s overall well-being by activating the body's natural healing capabilities through this practice. Follow along to learn more about what an osteopath doctor does, which treatments osteopathy treats, and how osteopathy works.
What is an Osteopath?
Osteopathic manual practitioners (D.O.M.P.) are experts in using hands-on techniques to diagnose and treat a wide range of health conditions by manipulating the musculoskeletal system to promote the body's natural healing ability. Their efforts focus on improving a patient’s mobility and circulation, relieving pain, and improving overall body function.
Understanding the Role of an Osteopath
An Osteopath focuses on the holistic system of your body, particularly the soft tissues (such as muscles, ligaments, and tendons), the spine, and the nervous system.
They use a variety of different hands-on techniques to promote healing and health, including:
- Spinal manipulation
- Articulation – gentle rhythmic joint movements
- Soft tissue massage techniques
- Muscle and soft tissue stretching and massage
- Muscle energy techniques – working muscles against resistance
- Visceral manipulation – gentle movement of the abdominal and pelvic areas.
Our Osteopaths have trained a wide share of specialized techniques, including:
Our foremost D.O.M.P is Dr. Bilchenko, who was trained as a Medical Doctor (MD) in Europe. He worked in Kharkiv County Urology Hospital, focusing on prostatic, bladder, varico- and ovaricocele issues.
He then trained as a Physician-physiotherapist and Manual Medicine Practitioner.
Dr. Bilchenko also worked in cooperation with German and Austrian specialists to receive a Certification in the Conservative Treatment of Scoliosis and Other Spinal Deformities from Dr. Weiss (German Scoliosis Academy).
What Does Osteopathy Treat?
Osteopathy is useful in treating a variety of conditions. Some of the most common ailments treated are ones directly related to musculoskeletal issues, such as chronic back pain, joint stiffness, and sports injuries. But those only use the surface level of potential in the practice.
Osteopathy can also treat many conditions that affect the inner systems of the body, such as asthma in the lungs, IBS in the digestive tract, and chronic pain from conditions like fibromyalgia.
Here is a more comprehensive list of common disorders Osteopathy can treat:
Musculoskeletal Disorders
Back and Neck Pain
- Lower back pain
- Back injuries
- Neck injuries
- Shoulder pain
- Frozen shoulder
Joint Pain
- Arthritis
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Hand, elbow, and wrist pain (tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow)
- Arthritis (rheumatoid and psoriatic)
- Pain in the joints and ligaments
- Osteoarthritis symptoms and degenerative conditions
- Foot, hip, and knee pain
Sports Injuries
- Treatment and prevention of sports-related injuries
- Ligament or muscle sprains due to overuse
- Repetitive strain injuries
- Post-surgery recovery
- Disk problems
Soft Tissue Injuries
- Muscle strains
- Spasm and ligamentous sprains
Nerve Pain
- Trapped nerve, nerve pain (e.g., sciatica)
Chronic Pain
- Chronic muscle aches and pains
TMJ Disorders
- Jaw ache, jaw imbalance, teeth grinding
Systemic Health Issues
Breathing Problems
- Asthma
- Sinus infections
- Allergies
Digestive Disorders
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Constipation
- Heartburn
- Indigestion
- Digestive sensitivities and intolerances
Chronic Pain
- Fibromyalgia
- Menstrual pain
- Migraines
- Tension or stress-related problems
- Cramps
Stress and Tension
- Inability to relax
- Anxiety
Circulatory Problems
Post-Pregnancy and Pediatric Care
- Pregnant women: Osteopathy can help with many common problems post-pregnancy, such as improving sleep and reducing swelling.
How Does Osteopathy Work?
It refers to the hands-on approach of manipulating a patient’s muscles, soft tissues, and joints through massage-like movements. The non-intrusive practice appears and feels on the surface similar to a massage, but has a different set of goals and techniques which focus on strengthening the body and promoting its self-healing.
The Treatment Process
Before Treatment
Before you start your treatment, Osteopathic Practitioner will ask for a detailed medical history and go through a comprehensive set of questions to better understand your lifestyle and general healthcare practices. This is important for making a holistic evaluation and finding the root cause of your ailments.
During Treatment
During an Osteopathic session, you may be asked to stand, sit, or lie down, depending on your condition and the area being treated. The Osteopath will then use their hands to apply gentle pressure in order to stretch certain muscles, ligaments, and tendons or to move joints into proper alignment.
Techniques can range from slow, continuous pressure to quick, sudden movements. These are meant to restore balance and improve the body’s main functions.
After Treatment
Post-treatment, you can expect a certain level of soreness similar to the day after a workout. This should subside after no more than two days and shouldn’t reach more soreness than a strenuous workout might provide.
During this time, drinking water and avoiding rigorous physical activity is essential while your body adapts to the adjustments. We also provide client-tailored home care, which includes exercise and manipulation techniques we provide to help further speed up recovery.
Risks and Benefits
The risks associated with Osteopathy are minimal. Some patients may experience mild to medium pain after treatment, but this is rare and usually temporary.
On the other hand, the benefits of Osteopathy are numerous. You can expect better circulation, reduced pain, improved joint mobility, and overall better functionality of your body, which can significantly improve your quality of life.
Key Takeaways
For many, osteopathy offers a gentler, less intrusive path toward better health. It is especially helpful for those dealing with chronic conditions that cause dehabilitation in their daily lives.
The following are some of the typical concerns of patients looking for Osteopathy treatment:
- Musculoskeletal disorders
- Back pain
- Joint issues
- Pregnancy concerns
- Quality of life problems
Osteopathic manipulative treatment corrects structural imbalances in the body, improves circulation, and promotes the body’s natural healing ability.
At Back to Health Osteopathy and Massage Clinic, our team of experienced osteopathic practitioners is committed to providing personalized care that addresses each patient’s unique needs. We understand that each individual's health journey is different, and we strive to tailor our treatment plans to the patient, accounting for both preferences and health conditions. Consider booking a consultation with one of our qualified osteopathic practitioners to see if osteopathy is right for you. Visit our website Back to Health Osteopathy and Wellness, to learn more or schedule an appointment. We look forward to hearing from you!