More and more local residents have begun searching for a holistic approach to injury treatment. At Elemental Health, we’re proud to be a well-known St Ives osteopathy source. But what exactly is osteopathy? How do you know if it’s the right treatment for you and your family? Here’s a quick look at what osteopathy is all about:
What is Osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a type of healthcare that addresses specific injuries by focusing on the affected area and the way it is related to the rest of the musculoskeletal system. i.e it may be causing or be caused by something higher or lower in your body’s biomechanics.
Osteopathy is one of the most comprehensive ways to address an injury — or to strengthen the body to reduce the risk of injury.
Osteopathy treats problem areas by helping the body to heal itself. Typical osteopathic treatment can include:
- Massage therapy and stretching
- Myofascial release: A non-invasive treatment that addresses musculoskeletal pain by putting pressure on fascia tissues
- Craniosacral therapy: A therapeutic touch technique focusing on the synarthrodial joints in the cranium, spine, and pelvis
- Treatments for soft tissues (muscles, tendons, and ligaments)
- Trigger point inhibition
- Muscle energy techniques
Are Osteopaths Trained?
Osteopaths (i.e., practitioners of osteopathy) are highly educated. According to government regulations in Australia, osteopaths must undergo at least 5 years of university training in several medical fields. These fields include:
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Pathology
- Osteopathic techniques
- General medical diagnosis and treatment
Government-registered (AHPRA) osteopaths can also provide examinations pertaining to the entire musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory, and nervous systems. They are also able to treat you under medicare’s chronic disease management plan, workers compensation and motor vehicle accident claims.
What conditions can be treated with Osteopathy?
Osteopathy can be effective for treating a variety of injuries. It can also strengthen the body as a preventative measure against injuries. Patients often seek osteopathic treatment in St Ives for conditions including:
- Pain in the back and neck
- Headaches and migraines
- Joint pain
- Repetitive strain injuries to the soft tissues
- Whiplash
- Athletic injuries
- Pre-natal and post-natal healing
To schedule an appointment with a trusted St Ives Osteopath:
For more information about the osteopathic services provided by Elemental Health, feel free to
contact us by filling out a short form on our website — or give us a quick call at 8084-0081. We are constantly accepting new patients and we’ll be happy to discuss how osteopathic treatments can help you.