Osteopathy is a holistic system of medicine, which places
strong emphasis on the inter relationship of physical, mental and spiritual
components for personal well being. It is practiced by qualified professionals
called osteopaths. Like conventional physicians, they are proficient in the
anatomy and physiology of the human body. Osteopaths practice a particular
treatment module called osteopathic manipulative medicine.
Osteopathy was founded by Andrew Taylor Still in 1874. The
new system is based on the self healing capacity and homeostasis of the body.
Osteopathic philosophy considers that the reason for all disabilities is
basically grounded in the disorders of the skeleto-muscular system. The
concentration of the system is to resolve somatic dysfunction. The therapies
are focused on the joints, surrounding soft tissues, muscles and fascia to
restore their functionality.
Osteopathy is a recommended treatment option for various
disorders such as joint pain, long-standing injuries, muscular aches, strains
and pulls, upper and lower back pain, mobility problems, frozen shoulders,
tennis elbow, arthritis, stiffness and tension, repetitive strain injury,
postural problems caused by driving or work strain, posture problems during
pregnancy, menstrual problems, respiratory problems, asthma, sciatica,
headache and migraine, babies with colic or sleeplessness, child development
and illness, sports injuries and sports training enhancement.
Osteopaths decide the treatment after a thorough clinical
examination. They will perform hands on examination of the parts and observe
their functionality and mobility. Now, new diagnostic methods such as X-rays
are also used in diagnosis. The treatment includes manual techniques and
non-invasive massages. Drugs are recommended rarely. Life style modification,
exercise, diet restrictions and posture correction are also included in the
therapy.
Cranial therapy is an
important treatment in osteopathy for skull and facial disorders. The common
manual techniques of osteopathy include high velocity low amplitude thrust,
myofascial release, muscle energy technique, soft tissue technique,
counterstrain, balanced ligamentous tension, lymphatic pump, visceral
manipulation, joint mobilization articulatory techniques, trigger point
therapy etc. The practice of principles of osteopathy helps to enhance the
harmonious work of individual systems in the body.
