The simple answer to the question of ‘who benefits from osteopathy?’ is that all people may benefit from osteopathic treatment. Osteopathy is available to people of all ages, all lifestyles and all walks of life.
Whilst there is a common misconception that osteopaths work only on bones or the spine, the truth is that osteopathy is a system of manual medicine that focuses on the body as a whole and how all parts of the body are intrinsically connected. Osteopaths are trained to have a comprehensive scientific knowledge of the musculoskeletal system, anatomy and physiology as a whole, along with clinical methods of investigation in the root causes of aches, pains and complaints.
Osteopathy focuses on the individual patient, so treatment is based on the patient’s age, body, and the complaints they are experiencing.
Osteopathy for the Elderly
Osteopathic treatment can be beneficial for a number of different conditions commonly experienced by older people. For example, osteopathy may help to provide relief from joint pains, ease stiffness, improvement and loosen muscles. As we get older, our posture often deteriorates, and as we bend forward, this places extra strain on our back, neck, joints and muscles. Osteopathy may be able to help reduce these issues.
For elderly people that are more fragile, a much gentler approach is taken to their osteoapthic care.
Arthritic Pain Sufferers
In many patients suffering with joint pain, stiffness or swelling, arthritic pain is often a cause, particularly in older patients. Whilst many people suffering with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis resigned to believing that nothing can be done, osteopathic treatment may help to ease the pain, swelling and stiffness associated with arthritic pain.
Osteopathic treatment for arthritic pain is gentle and non-invasive, gently guiding and stretching the joints through their range of motion to improve mobility and ease away stiffness.
Relief for Pregnant Women
During pregnancy a woman’s body goes through huge changes, with the extra weight of a growing baby leading to postural changes, aches, pains and strains. Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP) can affect women at any time during pregnancy, or even post-birth. This is a result of restriction, or hypermobility in the pelvic joints, and can cause pain when walking, bending or even turning over in bed.
Osteopaths can help to release pelvic restrictions, balance movement and help women to get on with their daily tasks with more comfort.
Osteopathy for Babies and Children
Osteopathic treatments are also suitable for babies and children at all stages of development. The act of being born can be very traumatic for babies, as their bodies pass through a small space to come into the world. Gentle osteopathic techniques can help to return the body to a natural balance, soothing and relaxing babies and children.
Treating Athletes
Osteopathy can also benefit all levels of athletes, whether professional, a fun runner, or even someone who engages in occasional exercise or sporting activities. Osteopaths are trained and experienced in providing treatment and advice for minor sports injuries and tensions, as well as helping to prevent future injuries.
Book an Appointment Today
If you are experiencing aches, pains or stiffness, an osteopathy may well be able to assist you. You can learn more about conditions that osteopathy can help with here, or if you would like to book an appointment, then you can contact us by calling:
Halesowen - 0121 585 8555
Wombourne - 01902 894 894
