Intro
Osteopathy being a holistic approach to health, means
that the focus is on the individual & their circumstance, rather than a particular
‘named condition’. However to answer this question, without individual
assessment, it is easier to talk in these general terms.
Back & Neck Pain
Osteopathy is a particularly successful approach to
treatment of spinal pain. Most commonly in the low back and neck, but
often these can refer pain to the lower and upper limbs respectively. Similarly,
stiffness/pain originating in the limbs, such as arthritic, injury (i.e.
'whiplash') or
repetitive strain (RSI) conditions may also be
helped.
Headaches
Many headaches, sometimes inappropriately diagnosed as
migraines, originate from stiffness/tension in the joints of the upper neck and
treatment often brings relief.
It is about trying to get to & treat the
underlying cause, rather than the symptom! In this case pain that the
brain perceives to being in the head.
Pregnancy
Osteopathic treatment can help to reduce the additional
stresses and strains associated with pregnancy by helping the body adapt
to the changes involved.
The extra weight at the front tends to pull the lumbar
spine forward, which can irritate the small facet joints at the
back of the spine. Once aggravated they tend to lock together,
causing further pain, muscle spasm & sometimes radiating pain around
the waist, into pelvis, buttock or leg.
Kids & Cranial
Osteopathy
Cranio-Sacral osteopathy is especially suitable for
children and the new born with conditions such as glue ear, colic and the
detrimental effects of a difficult delivery. These may also manifest as
restlessness, behavioural problems or learning difficulties.
This approach tunes into the subtle, rhythmic
Involuntary Movement System that occurs throughout the whole body. The
effects of previous or recent trauma can compromise the function of this
system and may lead to a reduced ability to compensate for the stresses
and strains of daily life.
I should say that this approach is not just for
children, but can be used on anyone.
Research
There is also research showing the effectiveness of
osteopathic treatment with Glue Ear, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS),
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS/ME) and menstrual problems, amongst others.
Close
These are given as a few examples, as each person is
assessed on their own merits and possible outcomes discussed.
Ultimately,
health is the responsibility of the individual and with the right
treatment & advice, all but the most severe conditions may
be alleviated. As a very general rule, the more severe or longer you've
had the problem - the longer it will take to recover. Having said that, it
is not that unusual for, say a 10 year old problem to resolve with a few
treatments.
For other conditions - see the
A-Z
section.