“What is Osteopathy?”

What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a form of manual therapy whereby practitioners work with their hands to gently adjust the body structure wherever it has broken down.  This work may be directed toward muscles, fascia or other soft tissues, as well as bones and joints.  Adjustments target the entire body, not just the areas expressing the greatest level of pain, muscle tension or sensitivity.  In this manner, every important system is examined and treated which ensures patients experience significant relief in reasonable time.  Human anatomy and physiology are so interconnected that as structure (anatomy) is restored from a condition of dysfunction back to one of function, the physiology tends to follow suit.  This is not an osteopathic idea or an osteopathic belief - this is a universal principle which applies to ALL biological systems.  Early osteopaths recognized the power of this principle and upon it they built the framework for a system of manual therapeutics which now called osteopathy.  Thus, the goal of osteopathy is NOT to treat the symptoms or conditions of a patient but in fact to stimulate a patient’s self healing and self recuperative abilities by virtue of restored anatomical and mechanical function.

Osteopathy has a rich and fascinating history.  Most people are unaware of the origins, philosophy and successes of osteopathy.  What is more unknown is how deeply intertwined the history of osteopathy is with that of allopathic medicine, sports medicine and physiotherapy and chiropractic therapy.  We are excited to discuss this history further in our blog and articles which are updated frequently! 

How does it work?

Osteopathy can be considered a holistic form of manual therapy. A holistic therapy is one which is complete and considers the known relationships between structure (anatomy) and function (physiology) to make treatment safe and effective. When osteopathic manual work is performed successfully, there are two major outcomes, both of which directly stimulate the body to move towards a state of health.

One; the nerves and blood vessels of the body are no longer burdened or obstructed by rigid, taught or immobile tissues (muscles, fascia, bones, joints) which means that the cardiovascular and nervous systems are able to operate without additional undue irritation.

Two; The mechanical (motion) function of the skeleton becomes more efficient, smooth and stable by virtue of improved coordination, flexibility and hydration of the myofascial (muscles and fascia) system.

The net result of these changes, over time, is often a significant improvement in overall functionality, mobility, awareness and stability; as well as a decrease in the intensity, frequency and overall expression of pain and discomfort. Osteopathic practitioners work with you to optimize your mechanical and structural health.

What is an Osteopathic Treatment?

The tools an osteopathic practitioner uses to adjust the body are diverse.  Gentle stretches along with safe, non invasive, structural approaches are used to address tension, disorder or rigidity found within muscles, ligaments, connective tissue and bones.  These manual maneuvers may correspond with an area that also happens to be painful or uncomfortable, or they may not.  The area of pain is usually not the area where osteopathic treatment is applied, which can sometimes be unusual for patients.  A patient’s legs, arms or head may be used - in a slow and controlled manner - to create mechanical leverage which is skillfully directed, by the osteopathic practitioner, to specific regions of the spine, ribs and pelvis.  Using this approach, the osteopathic practitioner is able to reduce tension, restore mobility, improve pliability and ultimately coax dysfunctional (painful and/or immobile) tissues to an improved state of health.

What can I expect in my appointment?

Treatment always involves a thorough structural examination in order to determine how manual work can best help the patient.  Patients are always given time to highlight and describe their physical concerns.  Osteopathic care is customized for each patient in a manner that provides them with the greatest possible benefits.  Patient comfort and quality of care are the top priorities of an osteopathic practitioner.

What can I expect after my appointment?

An osteopathic practitioner works with each patient to ensure they experience the best results possible. The benefits of osteopathic treatment are unique to each patient and are influenced by many variables.   Many patients notice substantial or complete relief after a few sessions while others may require more time before relief is obvious.  It is not uncommon for one to feel slightly fatigued and experience general achiness temporarily following an osteopathic treatment.  This again is influenced strongly by the nature of the treatment goals and current condition of the one seeking treatment.  The current condition of each patient as well as their health history and lifestyle are all factors that may influence treatment progress. 

How do I book an appointment online?

Our clinic offers the ability to book appointments online through a service called Jane. This service allows new and existing clients to book, cancel, or change appointments from a desktop or mobile device. Online booking links are provide throughout our website, on our social media profiles, and by searching “Align Osteopathy & Wellness” on Google. Try it here:

The video below will provide details on login instructions, how to book with a practitioner, and what to expect from the service. If you have any questions about the online booking process, please contact us to book over the phone or by email.