
Osteopathy
"We look at the body in health as meaning perfection and harmony, not in one part, but in the whole."
~ A.T. Still, MD, DO
Osteopathic Manipulative Treatments (OMT)
and Cranial Osteopathy
Osteopathic medicine harnesses the body's natural ability to heal itself by addressing the underlying causes of health issues and restoring balance. As your osteopathic physician, or DO, I use a holistic approach to healthcare that considers the complex interplay between your body’s structure and function. Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) is a key part of this approach, involving hands-on techniques like pressure, stretching, and resistance to support your body's healing processes. This method is patient-centered and aims to improve your overall well-being by enhancing mobility, reducing pain, and facilitating a balanced state of health. The process is collaborative, ensuring that you understand and are comfortable with the techniques used. OMT is often relaxing and gentle, and many patients find it effective for various conditions.
Benefits of OMT:
- Alleviates musculoskeletal pain
- Improves mobility and flexibility
- Enhances overall well-being
- Supports natural healing processes
- Addresses underlying causes of health issues
OMT and Pregnancy:
During pregnancy, OMT can provide significant relief and support. It helps manage common pregnancy-related discomforts such as back pain, groin pain, and varicose veins. By improving alignment and reducing tension, OMT can also aid in preventing labor complications and enhancing overall comfort. Additionally, it supports the body’s adaptation to the physical changes of pregnancy, which can promote a smoother labor and recovery process.
OMT and Children:
OMT can be particularly beneficial for newborns and young children, helping to ease discomfort and support their physical development after birth. It can address issues like colic, feeding problems, and developmental delays. Additionally, it has applications across a range of conditions, from dental and digestive issues to neurological, orthopedic, and psychiatric concerns.
Examples of Conditions Commonly Treated with OMT:
Dental: Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome (TMJ), Malocclusion, Orthodontic Issues
Digestive: Constipation, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Nausea, Diarrhea, Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Ear, Nose, and Throat: Chronic Ear Infections, Chronic Tonsillitis, Sinusitis, Throat Pain, Tinnitus
Genetic: Congenital Malformations, Down Syndrome
Genitourinary: Bedwetting, Prostatitis, Urinary Incontinence, Menstrual abnormalities, Pelvic pain, Sexual dysfunction
Neurological: Dizziness and Vertigo, Head Trauma, Migraine Headaches, Post-Concussion Syndrome, Whiplash, Seizures, Visual Disturbances, Dementia, Parkinson’s Disease
Orthopedic: Kyphosis, Lordosis, Postural Imbalances, Scoliosis
Newborn: Colic, Feeding - Latch and Sucking Difficulties, Torticollis, Plagiocephaly
Pediatric: ADD, ADHD, Autism, Behavioral Problems, Cerebral Palsy, Developmental Delays, Failure to Thrive, Learning Disorders, Otitis Media
Pregnancy: Back Pain, Groin Pain, Varicose Veins, Prevention of Labor Problems
Psychiatric: Anxiety, Depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Sleep Disturbances
Respiratory: Allergies, Asthma, Bronchitis, Frequent Colds, Recurrent Sore Throats
Somatic: Osteoarthritis, Fibromyalgia, Joint or Muscular Pain
Complex Conditions: Multiple Chemical Sensitivity, Chronic Tick-borne Illnesses, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), Mast Cell Activation Disorders, Autoimmune Illness