Osteopathy is a manipulative therapy based on the belief that skeletal and organ systems are dependant on one another. If the body is out of alignment, the organs will be dysfunctional, leading to impaired circulation and illness. Osteopathy is similar to chiropractic treatments, but uses more massage and stretching for manipulation, rather than rapid moves or pressure on specific points.
The aim of osteopathy is to restore balance to the body and allow the smooth flow of blood to the organs to enable efficient functioning of the nervous system, the elimination of toxins by the
lymphatic system, improving digestion and respiration and relieving pain. Osteopathy may reduce swelling around injured joints and hopefully allow the body to heal itself more effectively.
The most common use of osteopathy is for neck and back pain. As with chiropractic, it is increasingly being used for small babies, who may be irritable or unsettled, particularly after experiencing a difficult birth. This is called cranial osteopathy because it gently manipulates the yet to be fused bone plates in the baby's head. (A baby's skull bones fuse together at around 12 to 18 months).
Osteopaths should be trained for 4 to 5 years through a reputable college and be recognised by a professional association. They should be skilled and experienced in dealing with pregnant women and babies. Pregnant women may need a few sessions of treatment because their ligaments are softened due to increased hormones, making their bones prone to slipping easily out of alignment.
Some women also have a manipulation about 4 to 6 weeks after the birth (before the ligaments lose their increased flexibility) to relive back pain or pelvic discomfort. Some private health funds rebate osteopathy in Australia.
You may wish to read more in our
osteopathy section.
Reflexology