Osteopathy is a form of manual therapy that has been used now for over a century, with practitioners using hands-on techniques to diagnose, treat, and prevent a wide range of health problems.
However, one question about osteopathy remains unanswered ‘is osteopathy evidence based?’ In this blog, we will explore the evidence behind osteopathy, looking into its principles, techniques, and its overall approach to healing.
Understanding Osteopathy
Osteopathy is a form of alternative medicine that emphasises the interrelationship between the body’s structure and function. The medicine was founded in the late 19th century by Dr. Andrew Taylor Still, who believed that many diseases are formed by the structural imbalances within the body.
Osteopaths utilise a variety of manual therapy techniques to diagnose and treat conditions as they aim to restore balance and support the body’s natural healing processes.
Key Principles of Osteopathy:
- The Body as a Unit: Osteopathy views the body as a whole, where the function of one part affects the others. This principle is based upon the idea that treating the body as a whole can lead to overall better health for individuals.
- Self-Healing Mechanisms: Osteopaths believe in the body’s ability to heal itself. Their role is to support and enhance these natural processes through manual therapies.
- Structure and Function are Interrelated: Osteopaths put focus on the musculoskeletal system as they believe that dysfunction can impact other systems in the body.
- Treatment is based on these principles: The techniques used in osteopathy aim to restore function and balance within the musculoskeletal system, promoting better overall health and well-being.
Techniques Used in Osteopathy
Osteopathic treatment involves a wide range of hands-on techniques as it looks to promote the body’s self-healing ability. These techniques include:
- Soft Tissue Manipulation: This type of technique involves massaging and stretching connective tissues and muscle groups to help relieve tension and improve blood circulation.
- Articulation: This involves gently moving affected joints through their range of joints to improve mobility and reduce stiffness.
- High-Velocity, Low Amplitude Thrusts: A quick and controlled force applied to the joint that often results in a popping sound. The purpose behind this technique is to help restore joint movement and reduce any pain and discomfort.
- Myofascial Release: Focuses on releasing tension in the fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds muscles and organs, to improve mobility and reduce pain.
Scientific Evidence Supporting Osteopathy
There have been many studies on osteopathy treatment over the years, exploring the use of the treatment and its many benefits in healthcare. Research has proved that osteopathy can be very effective in relieving pain and studies have shown improvements in pain sores and function.
Manual therapy has shown many positive results in treating a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. Studies have shown that with the use of osteopathy treatment, many patients have seen an improvement in range of motion and joint function.
Osteopathy is highly beneficial as a form of healthcare treatment and has even shown many improvements in the digestive system. Many individuals suffer from digestive symptoms such as bloating and acid reflux in their everyday lives. However, it is suggested that the manipulation of the musculoskeletal system can improve the functioning of digestive organs.
Is Osteopathic Treatment Safe?
Osteopathy is generally considered a safe form of treatment even though you may experience minor effects during and post treatment. These effects can develop within a session however, they get better on their own in 1 to 2 days. Before treatment, your practitioner should explain to you the potential risks of the treatment and help identify any concerns you may have.
Osteopathic treatment is often tailored for all patients to ensure that the session best suits your needs and reduces the chances of pain and discomfort. Concordia Clinic has a team of highly qualified practitioners who are very passionate about your overall well-being and can tailor a session that is best for you.
The Benefits of Osteopathy
Osteopathy offers a wide range of benefits to all patients, making it a popular choice to seek an overall approach to healthcare. Some of these key benefits include:
- Pain Relief: Osteopathy is particularly effective in treating musculoskeletal pain, such as back pain, neck pain, and joint pain. By addressing the underlying structural imbalances, osteopathy can provide long-lasting relief from chronic pain conditions.
- Improved Mobility: Osteopathic treatment can help improve joint flexibility and range of motion, making it easier to perform daily activities and engage in physical exercise.
- Enhanced Circulation: Osteopathic techniques promote better blood flow and lymphatic drainage, which can aid in the body’s natural healing processes and improve overall health.
- Stress Reduction: The relaxing nature of osteopathic treatments can help reduce stress and promote a sense of well-being. Cranial osteopathy, in particular, is known for its calming effects on the nervous system.
When Should I Seek Osteopathic Treatment?
Identifying whether you require immediate osteopathic treatment can often be a challenge. The treatment can be beneficial for treating a wide range of conditions, including:
- Musculoskeletal pain
- Sports injuries
- Headaches and migraines
- Digestive issues
- Respiratory problems
- Stress and tension disorders
If you have recently discovered that you are experiencing any of these issues or just simply want to look after your body, consulting with a practitioner will be a positive step in the right direction to achieving your goals.
Seeking Osteopathic Treatment with Concordia Clinic
Osteopathy offers a unique and overall approach to health and well-being, focusing on the body’s natural ability to heal itself.
Understanding the interconnectedness of the body’s systems, practitioners provide tailored treatment sessions that address the root causes of health issues, rather than solely alleviating symptoms. If you’re seeking relief from chronic pain, improved mobility, or better overall health, osteopathy may offer the solutions you’re looking for.
At Concordia Clinic, we are passionate about your overall health and well-being and look to provide you with a variety of beneficial healthcare treatments. With their years of experience, our practitioners are always on hand to provide tailored sessions to ensure you can benefit as much as possible.
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