Osteopathy
What is Osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a manual therapy designed to support and restore optimal bodily function. It was developed in the late 19th century by Dr Andrew Taylor Still, an American Physician.
The first principle of Osteopathy is that the body is a single, whole unit of function. If, for example, an area of the body is restricted, the rest of the body will naturally adapt and compensate. This compensation can result in altered function, inflammation, pain and stiffness. The Osteopath will assess the whole body to ascertain functioning patterns and the source of dysfunction.
How do Osteopaths treat?
Osteopaths focus on how the skeleton, joints, muscles, connective tissues, nerves, circulatory system and internal organs function as a single unit.
Osteopaths treat the whole person, not just the symptomatic area. An Osteopath has many tools with which to treat the patient; fascial release techniques, joint mobilisation or manipulation, stretching and muscle energy techniques. At Healthpoint we have a particular interest in the gentler, non-manipulative techniques, which are suitable for all age groups.
What qualifications do Osteopaths have?
Osteopathy is a five-year university course, including a degree and a masters qualification. In Australia, all Osteopaths are government-registered Allied Health Professionals. All major private health funds recognise Osteopathy under ancillary cover, and a referral is not required. Osteopathy attracts a Medicare rebate when a GP provides a referral via a Chronic Disease Management Plan.
Osteopathy and children
Osteopathy can address aches and pains in the musculoskeletal structures of babies and children. For children, this may include postural strains, mobility issues, and injuries from falls. For babies, this includes various mobility issues related to tissue restrictions.
Osteopaths who have undertaken further paediatric study are well positioned to advise on therapeutic play and positioning, and developmental milestones. They are an excellent resource for parents hoping to optimise their child’s physical wellbeing.
Osteopathic treatment can identify and relieve the physical tension generated by emotional stress (for example, jaw tension or postural overuse of upper rib breathing muscles), minimising the negative effects on the child.
