Osteopathy
Healthy bodies depend on the smooth and effective operation of a finely tuned, complex system of bones and joints controlled by muscles and activated and co-ordinated by nerves. Changes in the subtle balance of this neuro-musculo-skeletal system can result in altered flexibility and mobility, disturbance of blood supply and drainage and dysfunction of the nervous system. Such changes are most commonly the effect of physical strain or injury, but may be caused by aspects of lifestyle or psychological stress. Osteopathy is concerned with maintaining and restoring the equilibrium of this system. Detailed and thorough patient examination, diagnosis and treatment involving the use of highly-developed palpatory skills allow osteopaths to deal with a wide variety of conditions that respond to the manual osteopathic technique. The range of such conditions is wider than commonly supposed. For example, some kinds of headache, asthma and other conditions not apparently connected with the musculo-skeletal system can benefit considerably from osteopathic treatment. Some of the discomfort experienced by women during and after pregnancy can be treated with great success. In a typical treatment, the osteopath will use a carefully selected combination of specific techniques including relaxation of relevant muscles and gentle work on joints to improve range of movement. Each treatment is individually devised according to the practitioner’s findings and the patient’s needs. As the osteopath takes an interest in the patient’s way of life, work and other activities, advice may be given on how to modify lifestyle to prevent further problems. In addition, exercises for the patient to follow at home may be suggested to involve the patient in the healing process. The majority of patients will receive maximum benefit from five to seven treatments. Others will need continuing attention to maintain a satisfactory level of mobility and relief of pain. Occasionally a patient will only need to attend once.
Osteopathy During and After Pregnancy
A pregnant woman will experience many physical, hormonal and emotional changes during and after pregnancy. Her body weight will increase and the ligaments will loosen, affecting her centre of gravity and subsequently her posture. This will have a direct impact on her muscles and joints and the rest of the body, such as the digestive system, diaphragm and internal organs. These changes may cause discomfort, dysfunction and pain to the expectant mother.
Osteopathy provides a non-drug alternative to alleviating these symptoms, easing a mother’s journey through this important period of her life. Osteopaths specialising in pregnancy are highly skilled practitioners, whose primary concern is the safety of the mother and her baby. They are well trained in subtle techniques that are beneficial during and after the pregnancy.
During pregnancy osteopathy can help with:
- Nausea, Indigestion, Heartburn, Constipation
- Symphysis Pubis Disorder (SPD)
- Varicose veins and Haemorrhoids
- Neck and Shoulder tension,
- Back, Pelvic or Sciatic Pain
- Breathlessness
- Headaches
- Postural Imbalances
- Coccydenia (Painful Coccyx)
After giving birth an osteopathic checkup is recommended for both the mother and baby. An osteopathic treatment can be useful for conditions such as: Post Partum Strains, Positional Upper Back Discomfort/Pain from nursing, Painful or Dislocated Coccyx, Stress Incontinence.
Paediatric Osteopathy is the specialized area of osteopathy that treats babies and children of all ages, from toddlers to teenagers. Osteopathy uses gentle non-invasive manual but highly effective techniques to bring about changes that affect the whole body.
Paediatric Osteopaths undergo special training to develop accurate and subtle skills that help diagnose and treat pre- and post-natal strains, traumatic births, falls and other injuries. They can also help with childhood and teenage muscular pain and discomfort caused by rapid growth, postural and physical imbalances or sports injuries.
Paediatric Osteopathy can be beneficial for:
- Trauma after a difficult delivery e.g. forceps, ventouse, induction
- Plagiocephaly - misshapen head
- Crying, irritable and restless babies
- Colic, sickness and excessive wind
- Feeding difficulties and sleep disturbances
- Constipation or bowel irregularity
- Recurrent chest infections
- Ear infections - Glue Ear
- Cerebral Palsy
- Asthma
- Sinus and Adenoidal problems
- Headaches and Childhood Migraines
- Behaviour problems
- Learning difficulties, Hyperactivity (ADHD)
- Childhood injuries and Growing Pains