Three Methods of Osteopathic Treatment
Osteopathic treatment aims to restore optimal health by treating the primary restriction and not just treating the compensations (or symptoms). Osteopathy includes three major methods of treatment: structural osteopathy, cranial osteopathy and visceral manipulation. The art of osteopathy is understanding how these three systems affect each other, and how to blend treatment techniques from all three for the greatest therapeutic effect.
Structural Osteopathy: Structural techniques mobilize joints and relieve tension in muscles, ligaments and fascia. Fascia is a continuous system of connective tissue which surrounds the entire structure of the body – even the lungs and digestive organs. Fascia can become short or adherent to other structures with poor biomechanics, poor posture or when injury or trauma has occurred. Due to its continuous nature throughout the body, an area of fascial tension like a scar can create pain and discomfort in seemingly unrelated areas of the body. Structural techniques can help release this and improve nerve function and circulation.
Cranial Osteopathy: Cranial osteopathy is based on Sutherland’s concept that the bones of the cranium do not fuse with age and there is some micro-movement occurring at the sutures. When cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is produced in the brain, the brain expands. This creates tension on the dura that surrounds it, causing the cranial bones to move in a rhythmical pattern. The tension in the dura at one end is transmitted along the spinal cord to the other end, causing the sacrum to have a rhythmical motion. Cranio-sacral therapy can have a profound effect on the body by improving the circulation of all body fluids, calming the nervous system and removing patterns of strain anywhere in the body.
Visceral Manipulation: Visceral manipulation is based on the principle that organs normally have mobility in response to the body moving and to normal bodily functions. Restrictions caused by surgeries, scars, infections, immobile joints and altered nerve conduction affect the functioning of the organs. Osteopathy offers gentle treatment techniques for the organs and the fascia that support them, which can improve function by restoring proper motion.
Osteopathic treatment is adapted to each individual and is suitable for clients of all ages, from newborns to seniors.
Conditions treated by osteopathy include joint dysfunction, arthritic pain, back and neck pain, whiplash, headaches, jaw problems, soft tissue injuries (sprains, tendinopathies), nerve pain (sciatica, tingling, numbness), difficult digestion (acid reflux, constipation), painful periods, chronic pelvic pain, bladder issues and pregnancy discomfort, plus colic, recurrent ear infections, and flattening of the head in babies.
Sarah Stevens, BSc, PT, DOMP
Sarah graduated from University of Toronto with a Bachelor of Physical and Health Education, Queen's University with a Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy and the Canadian School of Osteopathy with a diploma in Osteopathic Manual Practice.
If you have extended medical coverage, you may be entitled to total or partial reimbursement for some treatments through your plan. (Please check with your employer/provider.)
We are a private pay clinic but will attempt to direct bill for Pacific Blue Cross
and Providers included in Telus E-Health for Physiotherapy treatments.
We are unable to direct bill for Osteopathy treatments.
Please check with your employer for requirements and details