Classical Osteopathy

What is Classical Osteopathy

The term “classical” expresses the traditional nature of this type of osteopathy, it does not restrict itself to symptomatic relief but aims to improve the musculo-skeletal integrity, stability and physiological function, i.e. find the root cause of your problem and long term solution. Almost any mechanical and many physiological problems can be alleviated by Classical Osteopathy. It may be of particular value in instances where traditional medicine is not able to provide a cure. If a maintenance programme is continued after the initial success, the relief is enduring, and you will enjoy the benefit of improved health and a body much younger than its years. The treatment is based on the principal that the body, in its optimum condition, has the power to heal itself. The body’s natural ability for repair and immune response can be compromised by the malfunction of some aspect of the musculo-skeletal system. The Classical Osteoapth therefore treats the whole body in order to re-establish the close relationship and free articulation of structure (bones / joints), nervous integration and movement of fluids. For example; the whole body is connected with the nervous system. The welfare and activity of each part and the cooperation of all body parts is maintained by the nervous system. The functioning of various structures – be it organ, gland, blood vessel, ligament, muscle or bone are governed by nerve impulses that travel to and from the spinal cord. Therefore disturbances of a structural nature i.e. 2 twisted vertebrae will impinge on the disc between them causing the disc to bulge. This not only irritates / impinges on the incoming nerves which register the pain. It also impinges on the outgoing nerves to the organ related to the specific vertebrae. Thus a displaced vertebrae or group of vertebrae can be seen to be the underlying cause to a great many diseases or disorders – IBS can for example be caused / aggravated by restrictions in the spine.

Biomechanics

The human body is constantly subjected to the force of gravity. In classical osteopathy we consider how the body withstands this force by viewing it as a complex moveable system of levers, supports and tissues bound together as a living entity. The balance of the body is dependant on three main factors;- Equal distribution of weight through both feet. Balance of the pelvis over both feet Balance of the shoulder girdle and head over the pelvis. The treatment plan is designed not only to address your problem but to realign your body to the positions stated above so that it can withstand the forces of gravity without strain. Since the body needs to move in a huge variety of ways, the spine has to be able to cope with the forces acting upon it from a large number of directions, and often at the same time. To withstand these forces and to prevent damage the spine has a system of arches which act in the same way that springs act to absorb and distribute shock. They also provide mobility and strength. There are certain individual vertebrae, or groups of vertebrae that are designed to withstand these dynamic forces, and there are others that are more likely to encounter problems if the balance of the body mechanics is disrupted. The spine is composed of many vertebrae, which all work together as one cohesive entity in conjunction with the entire body, so it is logical that treating only one area of discomfort may offer temporary relief, but will not bring about a lasting solution.

Treatment

TREATMENT administered by a classical osteopath is known as the “body adjustment”, it is based on a sound knowledge of science, body mechanics and a careful, practical training in the art of technique.

The body adjustment has a distinctive framework to the treatment that is indicative of a whole body approach. Even when there is a very specific problem which is easily fixable in 1 or 2 treatments the whole body will be integrated. This is important as from the time of the injury the body is thrown out of balance and immediately compensates by twisting the segments of the spine above and below the problem area in the opposite direction to regain balance.

The entire body is articulated through all 4 limbs, the spine, pelvis and when appropriate the cranium and face are also treated. Specific manipulations are administered where necessary. This treatment is carried out in the knowledge that the body parts work in harmonious unison.

The stresses and strains of everyday life make it difficult for the body to sustain equilibrium, and a consistent maintenance programme will minimize the degree of instability and disorder developing over time.

Classical Osteopathy is essentially a non-invasive discipline based on a combination of soft tissue release techniques, rhythmic joint manipulation to improve mobility and if necessary, specific and skillfull mild thrust movements to restricted joints to assist restoration of the body structure and the normal functions of its tissues, nerves and organs.

As with all therapies, a caring approach and attention to the individuals needs are of particular importance. This type of treatment is gentle but very effective.