As it’s Osteopathy awareness week, I wanted to concentrate on this wonderful modality which is close to my heart, as my sister Vicky is an Osteopath in the UK. My family and I have received regular Osteopathic (as well as Kinesiology) treatments for many years and it has played a massive role in helping us stay healthy and fit. I had the pleasure of interviewing Vicky on her recent trip to Australia:
So Vicky, what is Osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a form of manual therapy. Osteopaths use their hands to diagnose and treat areas of pain and restriction. It is a safe, natural and non-invasive form of treatment that can be tailored to the individual patient’s requirements.
What sort of conditions do you treat?
I treat all sorts of issues but mainly
- Back & Neck Pain
- Sciatica
- Frozen Shoulder
- Arthritic and Osteoarthritic Pain
- Postural & Muscular Stress, Strain & Spasms
- Knee Injuries
- Hip Pain
- Elbow Pain
- Ankle Pain
- Tendonitis & Wrist Pain
- Tension & Headaches
- An inability to relax
Since becoming mum your beautiful daughter Ruby, you have also specialized in pregnancy care and babies, so Osteopathy is suitable for everyone?
In babies we use gentle cranial osteopathic techniques as they may have had a difficult labour or birth. As the child travels through the birth canal their heads are subject to a lot of pressure which under most circumstances they are excellent at adapting to. However, sometimes, particularly with prolonged labour or intervention, these forces can be too much, and Osteopathy can help the baby recover.
During pregnancy the musculo-skeletal system needs to accommodate and adapt to the growing baby. Sometimes, particularly if the mother has experienced back or joint pain before, the ability for the body to adapt to the expanding womb is challenged and this is when pain or discomfort can occur. Pregnancy related pains are most commonly felt in the low back, pelvis, hips and ribs but restrictions can occur anywhere in the body. Osteopathy during pregnancy utilises the bodies instinctive ability to adapt and gives your body the extra help it may need by balancing the pelvis and releasing restricted areas.
Do you have any tips on keeping your back healthy?
Yes most importantly you need to keep your back muscles strong. This can be achieved by gentle exercise, reducing prolonged sitting and avoiding repetitive movements. Regular Pilates or yoga classes are highly beneficial for all your muscular-skeletal system.
Diet and hydration also play a big role in keeping your spine healthy and strong. Remember that trauma to your spine can accumulate over years so it’s never too early to start looking after yourself.
To find an osteopath in your area please go to http://www.osteopathy.org.au/