Ostheopathy

Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT)

Osteopathy was founded by Dr. Andrew Taylor Still in 1874. Osteopathy is a healing art that has its main emphasis on the diagnosis and treatment of structural and mechanical problems within the body. It recognizes that the self-healing, self-regulating ability of the body is dependent upon a number of factors, including favorable environmental conditions (internal and external), adequate nutrition and normal structural integrity. It places special emphasis upon the importance of body mechanics, and uses manipulative techniques to detect and correct, faulty structure and function.

In essence the original concept of osteopathy held that:

  1. Within the human body there exists a constant tendency towards health. If this capacity is recognized, and if treatment takes its relevance into account, then the prevention and normalization of disease processes is enhanced.
  2. The structure of the body is reciprocally related to its function. By this it is meant that any change in structure will alter some aspect of function and, conversely, any alteration in function will result in structural changes.
  3. Health is the primary area to be studied in attempting to understand disease.
  4. The musculo-skeletal system, which incorporates the bones, ligaments, muscles, fascia etc. forms a structure which, when disordered, may affect the function of other parts and systems of the body. This might be the result of irritation or abnormal response of the nerve and/or blood supply to these other organs or parts.
  5. The body is subject to mechanical disorder and is therefore capable of mechanical correction.

FAQ:

Q: How does Osteopathy work?

A: Osteopathy does not use intrusive methods such as drugs, surgery, or forceful manipulation of the body. The Osteopath uses gentle touch, or palpation, to assess and monitor the source of a patient's condition. Once the cause or causes of the health condition troubling the patient is assessed, the Osteopath treats the patient. The Osteopath works to restore the body's innate ability to function properly and return to good health.

Q: What is the difference between OMT and Chiropractic Treatment?

  • chiropractors focus mostly on spinal integrity, using x-rays of the spine to form a diagnosis: osteopaths use palpation (touch) of soft tissues (muscles, ligaments and tendons) and spinal positioning in conjunction with overall postural balance to form a diagnosis
  • chiropractors work mainly on the spine; osteopaths work on the spine but also on the whole body, including peripheral joints
  • chiropractors use more manipulative techniques; osteopaths may use manipulation in conjunction with soft tissue and mobilisation (stretching of joints) techniques

Q: What conditions does Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment treat?

OMT can help people of all ages and backgrounds. It can:

  • ease pain
  • promote healing
  • increase mobility

OMT is often used to treat muscle pain. But it can also help patients with a number of other health problems, among them:

  • asthma
  • sinus disorder
  • carpal tunnel syndrome
  • migraines
  • menstrual pain

Q: Can I claim my insurance?

A: Yes. Most insurance companies and extended health benefits will cover osteopathic treatments.