What is
osteopathy?
Osteopathy started in 1892 and was created by Dr. Andrew Taylor Still in Missouri of the United States.
Its philosophy is based on the following four principles:
The body is a unit.
The body has its own self-protection and regulating mechanisms.
Structure and Function are interrelated.
Treatment considers the preceding principles.
Since the body is a unit, the vitality of each structure will affect the connected structures, which will affect the next connected structure and so on. Anatomical structures are linked. For example, a shoulder injury is not just a shoulder injury. The arm, the thorax and the neck will likely also be involved. Osteopathy considers the relationships between structures as well.
Our bodies are designed to heal themselves given the proper environment. Within the body we have all the chemicals, neurotransmitters, and hormones that we need. They are turned on and off by feedback mechanisms. When the body is regulated, the cardiovascular, respiratory, neurological, digestive and elimination systems work efficiently. When the body is dysregulated, the systems won’t work optimally, and it is possible that disease processes can start if this state is perpetuated for a long time.
If a body is structurally sound, then the body is best equipped for healing and can adapt to life’s injuries and illnesses much more effectively on its own. Osteopathy examines the structure of the body which will in turn affect the physiological processes since they are interrelated. To be healthy, the blood and lymphatics needs to flow freely to and drain from all our structures. The lack of fluid as well as excess fluids in any area are both areas of concern. An osteopathic manual practitioner uses visual inspection looking for asymmetries as a starting point. They also use motion testing to determine where treatment is needed. Ideally a person can move in all planes of motion, and reasonably equally in each direction. The osteopathic manual practitioner searches for the cause of visual and motion asymmetries and aims to correct these using osteopathic principles. Myofascial release as well as post isometric relaxation could be used.
Osteopathic Manual Treatments are covered by many extended benefit insurance plans. A receipt with billing number will be provided to submit to your insurance company.
