Osteopathic Massage
About
Osteopathic massage
Osteopathic massage, also known as osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), is a hands-on therapy that aims to improve the body’s natural ability to heal itself and achieve full-body wellness. It involves gentle manipulation of muscles and joints to relieve pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall function.
OMT is often used to treat musculoskeletal issues such as back pain, neck pain, and joint stiffness. It may also help with conditions like headaches, sinus problems, and digestive issues.
Techniques
Osteopathy massage combines different techniques, such as touch, stretching, joint mobilization, exercise, and soft tissue and muscle manipulation. The problematic area is tackled as part of the whole musculoskeletal system. Therefore, osteopaths treat the body in an interdependent manner and consider how the muscles and joints in the injured area affect and interact with the other parts.
In comparison, massage therapists optimize only the power and science of touch to massage and lessen pain in overstressed muscles. They shift from using gentle and hard pressure to treating their patients.
Results
The results of osteopathic massage go beyond relieving tense & troubled muscles or areas of the body. As osteopaths take a holistic approach to their practice, patients will experience overall improvement in function, structure, mobility, flexibility and overall strength of the body.
After an OMT massage session, the patient feels deeply relaxed, calm and less stressed and experience reduced pain, increased flexibility, and improved overall well-being.
Osteopathic treatment is typically tailored to the individual patient and their specific health concerns. Treatment plans may involve a combination of OMT sessions, lifestyle modifications, exercise recommendations, and other interventions for improving overall health and well-being.
What Conditions Does Osteopathy Treat?
Osteopathy treats a wide variety of musculoskeletal problems, but it also has a role to play in the management of many other conditions. The most common complaints for which patients consult Osteopaths include:
- Back and neck pain
- Headaches
- Work-related and repetitive strain injuries
- Sports-related injuries
- Pains in peripheral joints such as shoulders, knees, and ankles, tendonitis, and muscle strains.
- Scoliosis
- Sciatica
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
Different conditions and individuals will require a different number of treatments to help get you back on track. In general, the longer you have had a condition, the longer it may take to resolve or become properly managed. Some people find they only need a few consultations, and some with more persistent problems require more.
A management plan and treatment approach will be discussed with you during the consultation. We will probably provide you ‘homework’, which may include: stretching techniques, exercise advice, the use of heat or ice, and referral advice.