LEARN MORE ABOUT SOME COMMONLY USED OSTEOPATHIC TECHNIQUES:

 

Muscle Energy Technique:

-In the technique a restricted barrier is engaged and the patient is asked to actively move from a precisely controlled position against resistance.

Muscle energy techniques can be used to increases the length of tight or contracted muscle and improved joint motion.

 

Counterstrain:

-Treatment using counterstrain is directed at tender points that can be found in predictable locations throughout the muscles and soft tissues of the body. It is a gentle, indirect and passive technique in which the tender point is eased by placing the body into a position of maximal ease and comfort. This gentle approach is suitable for acute and chronic conditions, and is an appropriate technique for most people of any age.

 

Myofascial Release.

Myofascial release (MFR) is a technique that focuses on the ‘myo’ (muscles) and ‘fascia’ (connective tissue). It can be an effective technique to engage restrictive barriers within these structures and release strains that influences across the entire body.

 

Joint Manipulation or High velocity low amplitude (HVLA):

Joint manipulation is a direct, active technique where the osteopath engages a barrier of a joint that is restricted and employs a quick thrust to release the strain. The purpose of joint manipulation is to re-establish normal range of motion, decrease muscle and soft tissue tension and improve pain. Before any techniques are used, there is careful consideration if the technique is appropriate, which is based on a thorough case history and physical assessment. There are certain conditions that joint manipulation is contraindicated.

 

Craniosacral Treatment:

Osteopathy in the cranial field was pioneered by a student of A.T. Still’s named William Sutherland, DO, (1873–1954). Central to the cranial technique is the concept of the primary respiratory mechanism, which consists of the inherent rhythmic motion of the brain and spinal cord, fluctuation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), mobility of intracranial and intraspinal membranes, the articular mobility of cranial bones, and the involuntary mobility of the sacrum between ilia. The goals of various treatment modalities are to normalise nerve function, eliminate circulatory stasis, normalize CSF fluctuation, release membranous tension, correct cranial articular strains, and modify gross structural patterns.

 

Lymphatic treatment.

-Most osteopathic treatments have an effect on lymphatic circulation. Lymphatic treatments may assist by removing impediments to lymphatic flow and augment the clearance of lymph and other immune elements from specific congested tissues. Key areas of consideration may include the thoracic inlet, respiratory diaphragm, and pelvic diaphragm. Lymphatic treatments employ pumping, soft tissue, and manual drainage techniques to promote fluid movement.

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Visceral (organ) manipulation:

Visceral Manipulation is based on the specific placement of soft manual forces to encourage the normal mobility, tone and motion of the viscera (internal organs) and their connective tissues. Due to the delicate and often highly reactive nature of the visceral tissues, gentle and precisely directed gentle force reaps the greatest results. These gentle manipulations can potentially improve the functioning of individual organs, the systems the organs function within, and the structural integrity of the entire body.

Our osteopathic techniques include a gentle approach, suitable for all patients, from a newborn to an older adult, and for those with complex medical problems.

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