Definition of Osteopathy:
Osteopathy involves a holistic understanding of the patient, preventing, diagnosing and manually treating dysfunctions in the mobility of tissues in the human body that may affect health.
The Osteopathic Concept:
According to the World Health Organization, health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Osteopathy aligns with this definition by considering health as the perfect adaptation of the body to its environment. Therefore, the primary principle of osteopathy is to consider individuals in their entirety, taking into account their environmental and physical aspects.
The Unity of the Body:
All parts of the body are interconnected, forming an inseparable functional unit. Disruption in the functioning of one structure can have repercussions on other structures through tissue correlations.
Structure Governs Function:
The structures of the body and the functions they perform are interdependent. Impairment in the mobility of a structure can disturb its intended function, leading to a functional disorder.
The Body Has Its Own Regulatory Mechanisms:
For the body’s physiological healing processes to be effective, cells must receive all the necessary elements for their proper functioning. Movement facilitates the flow of fluids in tissues, promoting the renewal of the cellular environment. The nervous system and homeostasis also contribute to the body’s balance and self-healing.
Osteopathic Somatic Dysfunction:
Osteopathic somatic dysfunction refers to the body’s mechanical and physiological response to stress or aggression. It involves a restriction in the mobility of the affected structure and may have implications for other distant structures.
Adaptation/Compensation Phenomenon:
In response to stress, the body attempts to adapt and compensate by rebalancing its structure and modifying its functions. Initially, this phenomenon is reversible, but if it persists, it can lead to persistent functional disorders.
Functional Disorder:
A functional disorder indicates a dysfunction in the body and can take various forms. It accompanies the body’s constant adaptation to its environment but can become pathogenic if it persists and prevents the body from finding a new equilibrium.
Osteopathic Diagnosis:
The osteopathic approach involves an individual diagnosis to determine the most appropriate treatment for each patient. This requires thorough questioning, physical examination, and symptom and mobility restriction analysis to identify the underlying cause of the functional disorder.
Osteopathic Treatment or Specific Adjustment:
Osteopathic treatment, also known as specific adjustment, aims to restore mobility to the affected body structures and promote functional balance. It is performed manually, using techniques tailored to each patient’s needs.
Techniques Used in Osteopathy:
Osteopathy utilizes a variety of manual techniques to assess and treat dysfunctions in the body. Some of these techniques include:
- Joint mobilization techniques: These techniques aim to restore joint mobility by applying gentle and controlled movements to the affected joints.
- Joint manipulation techniques: These techniques involve quick and precise movements to restore joint mobility.
- Myofascial release techniques: These techniques target muscular tissues and fascia to relieve tension and restore mobility.
- Visceral techniques: They are used to assess and treat dysfunctions in internal organs by applying gentle pressure to the abdomen.
- Cranial techniques: These techniques are used to assess and treat dysfunctions in the skull and central nervous system by applying light and precise pressure to the skull and sacrum.
- Functional techniques: They involve using active movements by the patient to assess and treat dysfunctions.
Osteopathic treatment is tailored to each patient’s condition and specific needs. It can be used preventively to maintain health and well-being, as well as to treat a variety of functional disorders such as musculoskeletal pain, digestive disorders, headaches, respiratory issues, etc.
It’s important to note that osteopathy does not replace conventional medical treatments but can be used as a complementary approach to promote health and the healing process. It is recommended to consult a qualified and accredited osteopath to receive appropriate osteopathic treatment. Our osteopath, Valentin Finez, welcomes you to Clinique RESET and is ready to accompany you on your healing journey. Don’t let imbalances prevent you from living life to the fullest. Book an appointment now by clicking below.
