Is Osteopathy new?

The modern roots of Osteopathy date back to 1872. Dr. A.T. Still, a Physician, believed that the body was created as a perfect, harmonious whole and contained the basics necessary for it’s own healing. He developed a system for stimulating the immune system naturally. He eliminated the use of addictive and toxic drugs from his practice and considered surgery a last resort as a means of treatment. The first Osteopaths came to Australia in 1908 from the U.S.A.

What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a system of health care that focuses on treatment of the physical body, the joints, muscles and connective tissue with ‘hands on’ techniques such as deep tactile pressure, stretching and manipulation.

This has several applications including -

• Treating muscular contractions following periods of immobility
• Increasing the quality and range of motion in joints after muscular or joint strain
• Breaking down scar tissue caused by trauma
• This, in turn, affects the functioning of the whole body via connections with the nervous, circulatory and lymphatic systems

Osteopaths also offer you personal advice on stretching and strengthening exercises, posture, diet, lifting procedures and stress management.

Did you know -

• Nearly one third of the population (6 million Australians) suffer from musculo-skeletal problems, which cause pain or restrict movement?
• Nine out of ten people suffer back pain at some stage in their lifetime that incapacitates them for one week or more?
• Osteopaths have been treating Australians for conditions such as backaches, Migraines, tennis elbow and various sporting injuries, since the turn of the century?

What is an Osteopath?

Osteopaths are Government Registered practitioners of manual medicine. In Australia, There are three undergraduate Osteopathic courses. All are five years full-time.

• RMIT
• Victorian University
• University of Western Sydney

Who can benefit from Osteopathic treatment?

Osteopathic treatment is most commonly sought for musculo-skeletal problems such as -

• Postural and/or mobility problems
• Back and neck pain
• Arthritis
• Joint pain
• Back pain during and after pregnancy
• Sports injuries
• Some injuries from road and domestic accidents
• RSI
• Migraines
• Jaw pain
• Neuralgia and tension
• Headaches
• Sciatica

Osteopathic treatment can also help with problems such as -

• Breathing difficulties
• Asthma
• Digestive problems
• Gynaecological problems
• Lowered immune response after illness

What is arthritis?

Broadly, arthritis may be divided into two types - degenerative and inflammatory. Degenerative or osteoarthritis is the commonest form, sometimes called "wear and tear" and is usually localised to a specific site such as the hips, knees or spine. Its classic features of pain, stiffness and restricted mobility may often be eased and improved with skilled osteopathic treatment. Inflammatory arthritis such as rheumatiod arthritis is generally a systemic disease affecting not just joints but the whole body. Like osteoarthritis it produces severe pain, stiffness and often deformity. Osteopathy may be helpful in addition to medication.

You don't necessarily have to live with any of these -

• Neck pain
• Low back pain
• Hip pain
• Early morning stiffness
• Pain
• Swelling
• Lack of mobility

Remember -

• Osteopaths treat patients with arthritis every day
• You may not have to put up with your pain
• Osteopaths can advise on good posture
• Osteopaths can help you with treatment and advise on self-help
• Osteopaths are highly skilled practitioners

Why Osteopathy?

Osteopathic treatment can do a great deal to reduce pain, ease swelling and improve mobility and range of joint movement. There are many popular misconceptions about arthritis. For example: "Degenerative change on x-rays means that nothing can be done. Pain killers or anti-inflammatory are the only answer."

In fact, joint wear and tear is normal after the age of 35 and joint degeneration is not equivalent to pain. The osteopath may require x-rays, blood tests or even MRI scans to assess the extent of your condition. Treatment is not painful and often, symptom relief begins immediately.

Treatment

Treatment is aimed at improving mobility and reducing inflammation by using gentle, manual osteopathic techniques on joints, muscles and ligaments.

You will be given positive advice related to your lifestyle about how you use your body. Age is no barrier to osteopathy since each patient is considered individually and treatment is gentle. You may also be given advice about your diet, which in some people may be a factor in their arthritis. Exercises to do at home may also be prescribed to improve joint function and to reduce muscle spasm. Exercise in warm water or salt baths may also be recommended.

Osteopathy is not a cure-all and there are situations when surgery may be necessary - such as hip replacement when you will be referred to a specialist via your GP. However, osteopathy can help with rehabilitation after surgery.

What is Asthma?

Asthma is a common and sometimes debilitating respiratory disorder which can affect people of all ages.

About one in ten Australians suffer from asthma at sometime during their lives.

Sufferers may occasionally experience difficulty in breathing, accompanied by a wheeze and a tight, restricted chest. Other symptoms may include coughing, vomiting and shaking.

What is the difference between allergic and non-allergic asthma?

There are two different types of asthma: allergic and non-allergic.

In allergic asthma, symptoms are usually the result of inhaling or consuming some kind of external substance, such as pollen, dust mites, mould, wheat or dairy product.

Non-allergic asthma attacks can be triggered by a range of different factors, including fatigue, physical exertion, some medication, stress or exposure to environments which are cold and damp.

What happens to the body during an asthma attack?

Asthma is basically a breathing problem resulting from increased sensitivity of the airways which is provoked by a range of stimuli or ‘triggers'. The bronchial spasm, or narrowing of the airways, is recurrent and reversible.

When an asthma attack starts, the muscle layer within the airway wall contracts and the lining of the airway swells, causing the airways to narrow and mucous to be secreted into the airway. As a result, it is more difficult for air to flow in and out of the lungs and breathing becomes difficult. The ‘wheezing' sound of asthma is caused by the noise of air passing through the narrowed, swollen airways. In very severe cases, so little air is being moved in and out that almost no sound is audible. In addition, an irritating cough is often present. Sometimes a small amount of thick, stringy phlegm (mucus) is produced. If the attack is severe, the airways become very narrow and the diaphragm, which is the main breathing muscle, has to call on the rib, neck and abdominal muscles to help. This results in more energy being used and causes severe breathlessness and can lead to exhaustion.

As with many conditions, asthmatics react differently to attacks. Some may become very quiet or subdued as they concentrate on their breathing, while others may be obviously distressed and breathless, with a pronounced wheeze.

How can osteopathy help someone with asthma?

Osteopathy offers assistance to sufferers by working on all aspects of the breathing mechanism, including the -

• Ribs
• Spine
• Diaphragm and other muscles of breathing
• Nerve control of the chest
• Blood and fluid supply to the bronchii and lungs

Osteopathy can also pay an important preventative role in the care of someone who is suffering from asthma.

Does osteopathy replace conventional medical treatment?

No.

Osteopaths recognise the important role of anti-inflammatory medication, antibiotics and bronchiodilators in the treatment of asthma, especially in acute attacks.

Osteopaths work in conjunction with other health care professionals with the long-term aim of decreasing the patient's dependence on their medication.

Osteopaths recognise that the functions of the human body are inherently linked and can affect each other.

With this in mind, the osteopath gently works with the body's structure, to enhance and improve the mechanics of breathing, by -

• Freeing restrictions of the chest and ribs
• Relaxing the respiratory muscles
• Improving lymphatic drainage from the lungs and airways
• Enhancing the blood supply to the chest region

Other areas of management include the formulation of an individual exercise program, with emphasis on breathing exercises and the avoidance of aggravating factors. The osteopath also provides advice on diet, posture, lifestyle and first aid measure during an attack.

Who suffers from back pain?

Regardless of age or gender, 80% of the population will experience back pain. Although some people are more at risk due to predisposing condition or occupation, lower back pain can strike anybody! It is the most common cause of absenteeism in the workplace.

What are some of the causes of back pain?

• Scoliosis
• Previous back injury
• Pregnancy
• Poor posture

What are some of the warning signs?

• Localised pain that can be low grade, dull and creeping, to sudden, sharp and stabbing
• It can be constant or initiated during certain movements
• Traveling pain deep into the buttocks and legs, such as sciatica
• Morning stiffness

Why choose an Osteopath?

An osteopath is a primary care practitioner with the appropriate skill and knowledge to assess your complaint. Osteopaths can assess structural changes that may lead to immobility and dysfunction, due to -

• Recurring injuries
• Poor posture and decreasing flexibility
• Muscular spasm
• Secondary effects of hip, knee and foot problems

Your Osteopath decides which is the most effective course of action as he relies principally on physical examination, including observation and highly developed placatory skills to form a diagnosis. Your Osteopath recognises the importance of the skill and technology of modern medicine. This may lead to further investigation, which may include radiological, orthopaedic, or neurological assessment.

How does an Osteopath treat your condition?

Osteopathic treatment involves manual techniques, including soft tissue stretching and massage, combined with mobilisation and manipulation of the joints. The treatment is effective and conducted with the patient's assistance.

By designing an appropriate course of treatments, your Osteopath will also provide an ongoing management program to prevent a recurrence of the problem. Because Osteopaths look at the ‘whole' picture of human functioning, they also use a variety of techniques which acknowledges the many factors contributing to balance and health. To this end, Osteopaths provide advice on diet, exercise, posture and many other aspects of daily life. This caring and comprehensive approach to care and treatment complement the body's natural functions, helping you achieve the highest possible level of health and happiness.

10 top tips for back care -

• For back pain, better to see your osteopath sooner than later
• Take regular exercise - your osteopath can say what's right for you
• Hours in one position can cause problems - avoid ‘computer hump'
• During repetitive tasks, vary your rhythm and take frequent breaks
• Adjust car seats and on long journeys take regular breaks to stretch
• Pace yourself with heavy work like gardening - don't risk a disc!
• Watch children's posture - they shouldn't carry bags on one shoulder, or spend too long at a computer without breaks
• During pregnancy, osteopathy can help your body adjust to changes
• Avoid strain when lifting, particularly small children and shopping
• Your bed could be part of the problem. Seek osteopathic advice on choosing a new one

The calm and soothing approach of Osteopathy makes it especially suitable for treating children, including new-born infants. Children may develop structural problems from a variety of causes including -

• Difficulties during pregnancy or birth
• Childhood accidents and falls
• Infections or inflammatory conditions
• Genetic disorders

Osteopathic principles, care and treatment can assist in a wide variety of conditions, either solely, or alongside other disciplines.

Structural problems, such as those affecting the proper mobility and function of the body's framework, can lead to a range of problems. These may include -

• Postural - such as scoliosis
• Respiratory - such as asthma
• Manifestations of brain injury - such as cerebral palsy and spasticity
• Developmental - with delayed physical or intellectual progress, perhaps triggering learning or behaviour difficulties
• Infections - such as ear and throat infections or urinary disturbances, which may be recurrent

Osteopathy can assist in the prevention of health problems, helping children to make a smooth transition into normal, healthy adult life.

Osteopaths care for the child as a whole person. This holistic approach encompasses all functions and influences including the body, emotions, mind and spirit.

Before any treatment is begun, the Osteopath prepares a comprehensive care history and completes an examination of the child, including medical tests, therefore thereby determining if osteopathic treatment is appropriate or if there is need for referral.

Using the skills placatory, the Osteopath can gently identify where the child's structure has been disturbed.

Headaches are one of the most common medical complaints of civilised humanity, however severe headache is only infrequently caused by serious underlying disease.

Common causes for headaches

Headache originating from the neck is the most common type of headache. Other varied causes are eyestrain, sinus disease, neck injury (e.g. Whiplash,) tension headache from stress, poor posture, etc., migraines, jaw misalignment (e.g. Following dental work).

There are other more serious causes such as infection, haemorrhage and brain tumour.

Osteopaths, as primary health care practitioners, are trained to differentiate between headaches with common causes and those due to serious pathology.

Mechanism of Tension Headaches

A common presentation with headache is an increase in the muscular tension at the base of the skull with pain locally and possibly referred to the forehead and eye area. The tightened muscles and joint restrictions (from poor posture, stress, injury etc.) in the upper neck, contribute to reduced mobility, and irritation of the local nerves and blood vessels.

How can Osteopathy help someone with headache?

An osteopath is a primary health care practitioner with appropriate skill and knowledge to assess your complaint and decide in the most effective course of action.

Osteopaths assess structural changes that may lead to immobility and dysfunction. They do thorough physical examination, including observation and palpation, to form a diagnosis.

An osteopath will work gently with your body to -

• Improve joint mobility (especially in the cervical spine)
• Reduce muscular tension
• Reduce nerve irritation
• Improve blood supply and drainage to and from the head and neck
• Help prevent future headaches with advice on posture, exercises and stretching
• Provide advice on improved ergonomic environment

Pregnancy can be remembered as a joyful and exciting time, but for some women, pain, discomfort or illness can darken this picture. Osteopaths can assess and treat many of these complaints which are associated with pregnancy.

What are the most common complaints associated with pregnancy?

• Lower back pain
• Sciatica (leg pain)
• Neck, shoulder, middle back pain
• Discomfort around the thorax and indigestion
• Wrist pain
• Post natal problems of the pelvis

Early stages of pregnancy are often associated with symptoms such as nausea, morning sickness, headache, fatigue and dizziness. As the pregnancy progresses, the extra weight creates a shift in the body centre of gravity, combined with softening of muscles and supporting ligaments. This added mechanical stress can cause symptoms such as generalised back pain, sciatica from nerve pressure, pubic symphysis or sacro-iliac joint pain from instability, scoliosis and accentuation of the normal back curves.

Where does Osteopathy fit in the picture?

The philosophy of Osteopathy teaches that the body structure and its function are closely related and interdependent. This distinctive way of thinking applies to treatment of almost any injury, condition or change in state of health. Pregnancy is no exception. To accommodate for the growing foetus, the body undergoes tremendous changes. Some are visually obvious; others are subtler as hormonal releases affect the anatomy, physiology and biology of most systems.

The goal of osteopathic treatment is to assist this natural process, maximising the body's ability to adjust and to compensate for the changes as efficiently as possible in support of mother and baby with a minimum of pain and discomfort.

Osteopathic treatment through pregnancy is a wonderfully gentle way of helping the body adapt to the changes which are taking place.

The safety of mother and baby is the osteopath's first concern. After a thorough assessment, osteopathic treatment may help to relieve the aches and pains caused by growth in size of the baby and the accommodation of the mother to this.

Advice from your osteopath can help you to change your posture and learn to use your body correctly through pregnancy. Osteopaths can also help to ease other side effects of pregnancy such as heartburn, indigestion, constipation and pain in the buttock, groin or leg (commonly called sciatica). Some patients, too, report reduced morning sickness after osteopathic treatment.

Is it safe to the Osteopathic treatment during pregnancy?

Osteopathy has one of the best safety records of any medically related profession. The techniques used during pregnancy are carefully selected in order to minimise the risk. These techniques are gentle and the comfort of the mother is always assured.

Can Osteopathy influence the birth of my baby?

The descent of the baby through the pelvis is determined by factors such as ligament laxity, hormonal control, uterine contraction, gravity and position of the baby. If the mother's pelvis is mechanically unstable or lacking mobility, it may interfere with the baby's passage through the birth canal. Osteopathic treatment helps to restore balance and improve quality of movements of the whole pelvic girdle, promoting hormonal and neurological feedback, which in turn allows stimulation of the uterine contraction.

Should I still see an Osteopath after the birth of my baby?

Yes, for a whole range of reasons. Some women start to experience constant back problems or period pain only after the birth. This can be caused by weakened ligaments and lack of muscle strength, thereby weakening the whole structure.

Whilst mothers are breast-feeding, it can be common for them to experience postural strain and pain in the mid to upper spine, Osteopathic treatment to this region can help ease this discomfort as well as promote better blood flow and lymphatic drainage to the breast area.

Your Osteopath can also provide you with advice on posture for breast feeding position, sleep and daily activities, and also exercises to strengthen abdominal muscles and the pelvic floor.

Osteopathic treatment after delivery provides restoration of the normal mechanics of the back and pelvis optimising the body for an active life.

Remember -

• Osteopaths are skilled practitioners
• Osteopaths deal with pain every day
• Osteopaths can advise on good posture
• Osteopaths may help relieve back and leg pain in pregnancy
• Osteopaths can advise on pain relief during labour
• Return for advice and a check-up after delivery

Useful tips -

• Look after your back during pregnancy. Take particular care when lifting and carrying - especially lifting or carrying other children. Do not carry a small child on one hip for any length of time. Ask your osteopath for appropriate exercises
• If you stand for any length of time, keep your bottom ‘tucked in' to reduce strain on the lower part of your spine
• When sitting, use a cushion for support and don't sit with your legs crossed. Avoid twisting movements. These may cause torsional strain within the pelvis
• Lying on your side in bed, place a pillow under ‘the bump' to provide support and also put a pillow between your knees to prevent back strain
• If you prefer to lie on your back, place pillows beneath your knees to keep them bent
• Make sure all equipment (changing table, pushchair, pram etc.) is at a comfortable height for you

The effects of ageing

In life, ageing is a natural physiological process. One part of the body, which is greatly affected by the process of ageing, is the musculo-skeletal system. As we get older, the elasticity present within our body deteriorates and thus increases the chance of injuring the soft tissues and bony structures of the body.

The effects of ageing on the body’s structure give rise to symptoms such as -

• Generalised, early morning stiffness
• Lower back pain and stiffness
• Neck pain and arm pain
• Hip pain
• Arthritis and joint swelling

Arthritis can be broadly divided into two types -

• Degenerative (osteoarthritis)
• Inflammatory (rheumatoid)

It is common for people 55+ to suffer the effects of osteoarthritis, namely, pain, stiffness and restricted mobility. Osteopathic Treatment can be used to relieve these distressing symptoms. Often when people reach the age where they have more time on their side for recreational activities, it can be disheartening if pain in their body’s framework restricts them from enjoying these activities.

Many people mistakenly believe that the effect of ageing on the body’s joints is untreatable and have no alternative but to learn to live with their pain. Medications prescribed for these symptoms such as anti-inflammatories, can often have undesirable side effects. Therefore, osteopathic treatment may be very rewarding to patients if their pain can be substantially reduced using the body’s natural healing systems.

Osteopaths often work in conjunction with medical practitioners and realise that patients benefit from a more holistic approach to their health management.

Osteopaths may well require X-rays or other tests to help them assess whether treatment will be suitable.

What does osteopathic treatment involve?

Osteopathic treatment involves a variety of manual techniques Such as gentle mobilisation of the joints (also known as articulation), soft tissue stretching, indirect release and manipulative techniques. All of the above techniques aim to improve the quality and range of motion in joints throughout the whole body.

Osteopathic treatment is designed to improve blood circulation, lymphatic drainage and alleviate disruptive influences on the nervous system.

It is particularly suited to the treatment of aged people as these techniques are gentle and non-invasive. Osteopaths use a wide range of techniques that can be adapted to suit the needs of the patient and their specific conditions.

Osteopaths may also offer you advice on exercise to help your particular condition. They will also advise on correct posture and lifting techniques.

Whether you are a weekend warrior or an elite athlete, your osteopath can assist with prevention of injury as well as treatment of many common sporting injuries. These include -

• Neck and back strains
• Shoulder, elbow and wrist injuries (e.g. Tennis elbow)
• Hip, knee, leg and ankle injuries (e.g. Shin splints)

Ankle and shoulder injuries are very common in amateur and professional sport. These injuries can be poorly treated or not treated at all which can lead to recurrence and early degenerative conditions.

Prevention is definitely better than cure!

Your osteopath can provide a number of stretching exercises and routines that will specifically assist you with avoiding injury though muscle and joint strain. In addition, depending on your sport and individual needs, your osteopath can provide advice on correct diet to assist you in both performance and recovery.

Osteopathic treatment involves manual techniques, including soft tissue stretching, mobilisation and manipulation, which is like a tune up for strained muscles, joints and spine. This creates a positive influence on your circulatory and nervous systems. In turn, this can have a flow on effect to the rest of the body by improving elasticity and mobility. These hands on methods are gentle, safe and effective.

Out of breath?

Whether you are aware that you suffer from a breathing disorder or not, it is important, particularly in sport, that you ensure your diaphragm is performing optimally and the rib cage mechanics are functioning correctly. This is highlighted when the body is under stress to perform and the respiratory rate is elevated.

Your osteopath can assess your structure and assist in maintaining good breathing function.

What to do if you or someone else suffers a sports injury

In all cases you should do your best to remain calm. Where the condition is not life-threatening, you should follow standard First Aid procedures -

• Rest - reduce stress to the injury
•  Ice - to reduce inflammation (analgesic where necessary)
• Compress - gently using bandages to minimise swelling
• Elevate - maintain efficient blood circulation
• and seek medical advice!