Osteopathy
Background
A system of diagnosis and treatment, usually by manipulation. It is used to treat musculoskeletal problems, although some therapists claim benefits for other disorders.
Dr Andrew Taylor-Still founded osteopathy in the late 19th century in the USA. He noticed the way his patient's general health was affected by the way they held and used their body structure. Osteopathy is termed 'the science of adjustment'. Osteopathy focuses on the musculo-skeletal system (the bones, joints, muscles, ligaments and connective tissue) and the way in which this inter-relates with the body as a whole. It combines scientific knowledge of anatomy and physiology and clinical methods of investigation. Osteopaths are skilled in diagnosing problems that may require further investigation. While these specific conditions are not curable by osteopathic treatments, by correcting any underlying mechanical disturbances in the musculo-skeletal system, osteopaths can greatly relieve the pain and distress involved in some of these problems.
Its use can be tremendously beneficial to help damage caused by bad posture, disease or trauma. When the musculo-skeletal aspects are working harmoniously the body then has the power to heal itself. . Historically it differs from chiropractic in its underlying theory that it is impairment of blood supply rather than nerve supply that impairs function. Craniosacral therapy (LINK) is a branch of osteopathy. Osteopathy is recognised by the BMA.
What can be treated?
- Osteopathy largely treats back problems. Low back pain has reached epidemic proportions in the western world. Research shows that 60% of the U.K population will suffer from it at some stage during their lifetimes. A recent Health Department report recommends physical therapy such as osteopathy as early as possible after onset. Osteopathic treatment and active rehabilitation can be much more effective than the old fashioned approach of pain killers and bed rest. Back problems account for over 50% of the cases osteopaths see. Most people think of back pain as being the result of injury. This is far from the case. There are very many disease states and pathological conditions which can give symptoms of backache, eg, Arthritis
- Cervical Spondylosis
- Kidney Disease
- Cervical Spondylitis
- Tumours
- Rheumatic Conditions
- Dermatological Problems
It is useful in the treatment of low back pain, neck pain and other conditions including period related back pain. It is popular amongst working mothers and the 40 plus age group, including the elderly. Many practitioners see their role as being quite wide and will treat disorders such as disturbance of the gastrointestinal and genitourinary systems, respiratory and cardiovascular problems.
What does the treatment involve?
It is the osteopath's comprehensive approach to healthcare, which makes treatment unique. When you visit an osteopath for the first time a full case history will be taken and you will be given an examination. The osteopath will identify any points of weakness or excessive strain; they may also refer you for additional tests if appropriate. A full diagnosis and a suitable treatment plan will be developed for you as an individual. Osteopaths do not look on patients simply as back sufferers but as individuals with their own unique requirements. Treatment is designed to correct each individual's mechanical and spinal problems in order to stimulate their own natural healing processes. Osteopaths do not simply treat back problems but rather the mechanical causes of disturbed states of natural health.
An osteopath's main tools are his hands, being used both for diagnosis and treatment. The osteopath will first take the patient's history. He is then observed standing, sitting and lying. Palpation and passive movements give an impression of the superficial and deep tissues. Treatment may include soft tissue techniques whereby the tissues in need are massaged. Articulatory techniques involve the passive movement of joints. Other techniques include a high velocity thrusting technique which are sudden movements applied to the spine or peripheral joints. When the musculo-skeletal aspects are working harmoniously, the body then has the power to heal itself. Gentler releasing techniques are used with children or the elderly.
The frequency of visits will depend on the individuals and their complaint, as will the length of treatment. The initial consultation will last upto 1 hour and subsequent sessions 30 minutes.
The osteopath does not rely on x-rays but may use them to ensure that the treatment is appropriate.
Is it safe?
In skilled hands - yes.
High velocity thrusts should not be used if you are suffering from acute arthritis, acute fracture and dislocation, ligament rupture and instability, unstable odontoid peg at the top of the spine, infections, vertebrobasilar insufficiency (trapped arteries in the spine), acute myelopathy and spinal cord compression.
What is the evidence?
Low back pain - Waddell G et al. Low back pain evidence review. London: Royal College of General Practitioners. Febuary 1999
Neck pain - Hurwitz E et al. Manipulation and mobilization of the cervical spine. A systemic review of the literature. Spine 1996;21:1746-59
Low back pain during menstruation - Boesler D et al. Efficacy of high-velocity low-amplitude manipulative technique in subjects with low back pain during menstrual cramping. J Am Osteopathiv Assoc 1993;93(2):203-8, 213-4
How to find a qualified therapist
General Osteopathic Council
Osteopathy House
176 Tower Bridge Rd
London SE1 3LU
www.osteopathy.org.uk
Tel: 020 7357 6655
The British Osteopathic Association
Lamghan House
East Mill Street
Luton
LU1 2MA
Tel: 01582 488455
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