Osteopathy is a unique method of diagnosis and treatment that focuses on the analysis of the relationship between body structures and their functioning. It treats the body as a whole, taking into account the interrelationships between the neuromusculoskeletal system, internal organs and the sympathetic nervous system. This form of manual therapy is effective in the treatment of many ailments. Including back pain, joint problems, migraines or digestive disorders. Through osteopathy, it is possible to restore normal tissue mobility and improve overall body function. Find out how osteopathy can help treat a variety of conditions and what techniques osteopaths use to restore balance to the body!
Who is an osteopath?
An osteopath is a qualified specialist who diagnoses and treats various conditions using manual techniques. He or she is a person who has relevant medical training. Most commonly in the field of physiotherapy or medicine and then acquires specialised training in osteopathy. The main task of an osteopath is to restore balance to the patient's body through therapy that involves the joints, muscles and nerves. The osteopath not only relieves physical ailments, such as back or joint pain, but also improves mental wellbeing by treating the body holistically. Patients come to the osteopath with a wide range of problems - from back pain to migraines to sleep difficulties. Osteopathic therapies are suitable for both adults and children.
Osteopathy is an increasingly popular treatment method that belongs to alternative medicine and is based on the use of manual techniques. Unlike traditional methods, osteopathy diagnoses and treats musculoskeletal problems with the therapist's hands. Its key feature is its holistic approach to the patient - the osteopath treats the body as a whole, taking into account not only the musculoskeletal system, but also the nervous system and the mental aspects of health. One of the foundations of osteopathy is the belief that the immune system plays an important role in the self-healing process, and the aim of therapy is to support this natural ability of the body to regenerate.
How can osteopathy help?
Osteopathy can help treat a wide range of ailments, both physical and emotional. Indications for osteopathy include headaches such as migraines or cervicogenic headaches, as well as dizziness. It also effectively treats spinal problems such as discopathy, sciatica or lumbago. Osteopathy helps with temporomandibular joint complaints, menstrual pain and also supports the treatment of endometriosis. It can also help with endocrine disorders, postnatal depression, neuroses, and the treatment of internal organ problems such as incontinence and diurnal rhythm disorders. Indications also include injuries, postural defects, joint pain, colic, constipation or problems with body asymmetry in infants, such as plagiocephaly or torticollis. Osteopathy has a wide range of applications in relieving pain and improving body function.
Types of methods used in osteopathy
A variety of therapeutic techniques are used in osteopathy, which are divided into direct (structural) and indirect (functional).
Direct techniques involve directly acting on tissues or organs to improve their mobility, reduce tension or promote lymphatic drainage and circulation. A frequently used method in this group is manipulation, which involves precise movements to restore normal joint and tissue function.
Intermediate techniques focus on gently moving away from the limit of movement towards maximum tissue relaxation. By working in this way, the muscle structure is relaxed and the pattern of tension is altered, improving joint and muscle function without the need for manipulation.
In addition, osteopathy also uses techniques such as muscle energy, lymphatic drainage, harmonic or reflective techniques. They can also be used in other forms manual therapy.
Osteopathy - can everyone benefit from it?
The main contraindications include:
- patient's lack of consent to therapy,
- life-threatening conditions that require urgent medical intervention,
- severe cancer at an advanced stage,
- advanced cardiovascular disease that may require specialised care,
- active infections or inflammations,
- certain mental illnesses in the acute phase.
Before starting osteopathic therapy, it is a good idea to consult your doctor and provide full medical records. During the first visit, the osteopath will carry out a detailed history and physical examination. This will allow him/her to assess whether osteopathy is a suitable treatment method for your particular case.
