Many conditions can be treated with osteopathic manipulation, a hands-on technique that only a doctor of osteopathy (DO) is qualified to perform. It involves the movement and manipulation of a person’s muscles and joints in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of certain conditions.
If you’re wondering how manipulation actually works and want to learn more about this treatment technique, you’ve come to the right place.
The team at Excel Body & Health is committed to achieving the best possible health outcomes for our patients. We work with patients from all walks of life and are committed to working alongside you to help you achieve your goals, whatever they may be. Book an appointment with one of our skilled osteopaths today.
What is Osteopathic Manipulation?
This is a hands-on technique that is sometimes known as osteopathic manipulation treatment (OMT) or osteopathic manipulative therapy.
Osteopaths use it to treat mechanical pain (pain that occurs in the muscle, tendon, or bone as a result of structural imbalance), as well as a wide range of health conditions. It’s also used to diagnose and prevent disease, as well as to help the body function better overall.
Your osteopath will use gentle pressure to manipulate the muscles, soft tissues, and joints.
What Does Osteopathic Manipulation Treat?
While most people who receive manipulation are seeking treatment for lower back pain, it can be used to treat many conditions, including:
- Breathing issues, such as asthma and sinus infections.
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Musculoskeletal problems, such as neck and lower back pain.
- Chronic pain, such as arthritis and fibromyalgia.
- Headaches and migraines.
- Pregnancy-related issues, such as pelvic girdle pain.
- Bowel issues, such as constipation and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
- Sports injuries and repetitive stress injuries (RSI).
Manipulation is a form of treatment that everyone – babies, children, and adults – can benefit from, depending on their needs. It’s used in pregnant women to help improve sleep and relieve pain, for example, and may also help babies suffering from colic.
What Happens During Osteopathic Manipulation?
You will be instructed to stand up, sit, or lie down on the exam table. You may be asked to lie on your back, or your side, or to pull your knees to your chest. The exact position will depend on your condition and the way the osteopath plans to manipulate your body. You may be asked to hold and release your breath at different times.
Your osteopath will then touch your muscles and soft tissue, as well as move your limbs in different positions. The aim of this is to stretch your muscles and move your joints into proper alignment.
There are over 40 osteopath manipulation techniques; your osteopath may use one or several of them, depending on your condition. Common techniques include:
- Massage, which is useful for relaxing the muscles.
- Stretching, which can be used to ease still joints.
- Articulation, which is when the joints are moved through their natural range of motion.
- High-velocity thrusts, which are short, sharp movements that may cause a clicking noise.
While some of the movements may feel strange, they shouldn’t hurt. If you experience any pain or discomfort, alert your osteopath straightaway.
Is There Anything I Need to be Aware of After Osteopathic Manipulation?
It’s important to note that manipulation affects everyone differently – some people are sore and/or stiff for a little while after treatment, whereas others feel completely normal. You should contact your osteopath if the soreness lasts longer than a few days, or if you experience any pain.
Other instructions to follow may include:
- Staying hydrated and drinking plenty of water.
- Going for a short walk to help your body “settle”.
- Avoiding rigorous activity for 24 hours.
What Are the Benefits of Osteopathic Manipulation?
Manipulation offers several benefits, including:
- Improving circulation and blood flow.
- Addressing structural problems within the joints, muscles, and soft tissues.
- Preventing health problems and helping the body to heal itself.
- Easing tight muscles, relieving joint stiffness, and improving range of motion.
- Managing pain episodes and reducing their frequency.
- Decreasing chronic pain symptoms and reducing the use of pain relief medications.
Osteopathic manipulation treats conditions that affect every system within the body, from the musculoskeletal and digestive systems to the nervous and immune systems. Realigning your body and restoring balance allows your body to work better as a whole.
Add Osteopathic Manipulation to Your Treatment Plan
Osteopathic manipulation is considered a safe treatment with very few side effects, which makes it a good choice for treating conditions like chronic pain, lower back pain, musculoskeletal problems, and even headaches. If manipulation is something you’re interested in exploring, be sure to book an appointment with the skilled team at Excel Body & Health today – we’ll be with you every step of the way.
