Osteopathic Treatment

Osteopathic Techniques

Osteopathic Manual Manipulation
Biodynamic Cranial Osteopathy
Fascia Manipulation
Bowen technique

Applied Functional Science in movement

Functional movement
Exercise Prescription
Posturology

Holistic Care Approach

Combining therapy and
wellness coaching

What is Osteopathy

Osteopathy focuses on examining how individuals relate to their environment and their condition (dysfunction or trauma) to determine the levels and types of assistance needed. The assessment of dysfunction, as well as the progression of physiology into pathology, thus how we deviate from overall health, is central to the philosophy of osteopathy and its approach on how to address and these  dysfunctions.

The manual therapy techniques employed aim to support the physiology of the entire body and restore balance. A wide range of therapeutic techniques are used to enhance physiological function and support homeostasis, which may have been affected by impaired or altered functioning of the musculoskeletal system, including skeletal, joint, and myofascial levels, as well as associated vascular, lymphatic, and neural systems.

Osteopathy’s evaluation and treatment approach employs five primary models of structure-function relationships. These models are used in combination to provide a framework for understanding and managing dysfunction, as well as interpreting clinical symptoms and information. The therapeutic approach is tailored to individual needs and adjusted as those needs evolve.

The structure-function relationship models utilized in osteopathy were recognized in 2010 by the World Health Organization as a unique contribution of osteopathy to global health.

The five models of Οsteopathy

The structure-function relationship models utilized in osteopathy were recognized in 2010 by the World Health Organization as a unique contribution of osteopathy to global health.

This model views the body as a unified structure interacting dynamically to maintain posture and balance. Strains and imbalances within this system can affect dynamic function, increase energy expenditure, alter proprioception (the sense of body position in the environment), disrupt joint structure, and impair neurovascular function and metabolism. The therapeutic focus is on restoring proper posture and effective use of musculoskeletal structures.
This model emphasizes maintaining the extracellular and intracellular environment by ensuring uninterrupted oxygen and nutrient delivery and efficient removal of cellular waste. Strained tissues or factors that impede fluid flow or circulation can affect tissue health. Osteopathic techniques in this model target dysfunctions in the respiratory mechanism and the circulation of bodily fluids.
This model explores the effects of spinal sensitization, proprioceptive function, the autonomic nervous system, and nociceptor activity on the neuro-endocrine-immune network. The interplay between the somatic and visceral (autonomic) nervous systems is particularly significant. Treatment focuses on reducing mechanical stress, balancing harmful stimuli, and alleviating pain sensitivity.
This model acknowledges that psychological stress and various reactions can impact health and well-being. Environmental, socioeconomic, cultural, physiological, and psychological factors all influence illness. Therapeutic approaches, including manual techniques, are used to address the effects of biopsychosocial stressors and reactions to them.
The bioenergetic model recognizes the body’s efforts to maintain a balance between energy production, distribution, and expenditure. Maintaining this balance helps the body adapt to various stresses (immunological, nutritional, psychological, etc.). This model employs therapeutic approaches, including manual techniques, to address factors that might disrupt energy production, distribution, or expenditure.

This model recognizes the body’s effort to maintain balance between energy production, distribution, and expenditure. Maintaining this balance is crucial for adapting to various stresses, including immunological, nutritional, and psychological challenges. Osteopathic techniques in this model address factors that may disrupt energy balance.

Conditions Treated by Osteopathy

By tailoring techniques according to the aforementioned models, osteopathy can effectively address or support a wide range of dysfunctions and issues, including:

  1. Neck and back pain
  2. Arthritis
  3. Tendinitis and tendinopathies
  4. Pain caused by poor posture or usage patterns
  5. Neuralgias
  6. Sports injuries and trauma
  7. Respiratory dysfunctions, including COPD
  8. Tension headaches and migraines
  9. Shoulder, elbow, and wrist pain
  10. Pelvic and hip pain
  11. Muscle and joint pain associated with pregnancy
  12. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain