Osteopathy - Overview
Osteopathy is one of several regulated healthcare professions in Australia. Osteopathy is a field of healthcare that revolves around the significance of the musculoskeletal system in the overall health and well-being of a person. It is used as a treatment plan for a wide range of healthcare conditions, including
- Backache
- Arthritis
- Sciatica
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Headaches and vertigo
- Repetitive strain or sports injuries
- Pregnancy-related discomfort and several other musculoskeletal conditions.
Osteopathy is considered an effective treatment for several musculoskeletal disorders. However, most people who undergo the treatment may feel sore following a visit to the osteo which may even deter them to schedule their next visit. Hence, you must know what to expect during your osteopathic care.
Osteopathic Care - What to Expect?
When you schedule your first visit to your osteo, your healthcare provider will ask you questions about your overall health condition as well as about the specific healthcare concern for which you need osteopathic care. They may also refer to your previous medical records, such as MRI scans and blood tests or may recommend a few more if there is a need for it. Once you share your medical history, your osteopath will examine the areas of concern using their hands.
Following the physical examination, your osteopath will share the recommended treatment plan. Often the treatment plan requires you to take responsibility for your health. However, it also involves specialized osteopathic techniques which include the following.
- Massage to improve the blood circulation in the area,
- Stretching of your stiff joints,
- Articulation of your joints to improve their range of motion,
- Striking manipulation of the spine may produce clicking noise as well.
The treatment plan also involves stretching exercises and techniques that you need to practice at home to improve blood flow and muscle strength. However, always remember that the treatment plan varies according to your specific healthcare concern.
Why Do I Feel Sore After the Visit?
Osteopathy is not painful. However, depending upon your specific healthcare concern, it's common for most people to feel sore after the visit. It is particularly a concern if you are seeking treatment for a painful injury that also involves inflammation of your muscles and joints. Usually, pain is a bodily response to osteopathic manipulation of your muscles and joints which improves blood flow, reduces spasms, and improves joint and muscle mobility. And when they do so, it may temporarily increase the sensation of pain and discomfort. However, your symptoms will substantially improve in the next 24-48 hours.
At Long Beach Osteopathy, our expert osteopaths use a customized combination of techniques to manipulate and mobilize your joint and muscles so you can live a healthier and more fulfilling life.