Osteopathy
What is Osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a natural science based on the principles that all parts of the body function together as a whole. If one part of the body is restricted, then the rest of the body must adapt and compensate for this, eventually leading to pain, inflammation, injury or disease. What sets osteopathy apart from other disciplines is that it treats the underlying cause of a condition, and not just simply the symptoms.
Manual osteopaths use a variety of techniques like soft tissue techniques, joint mobilization, muscle energy techniques, and more with the goal of reducing pain, restriction, and tightness in the body in order to restore balance to the body and allow for proper healing.
Manual Osteopaths can also prescribe exercise prescriptions, much like a physiotherapist, but specialize with chronic conditions rather than acute injuries.
Each session with an osteopath can look quite different depending on the individual client’s needs, but will often include some form of hands-on techniques to address pain/discomfort and can then follow with exercise prescription that you can take home in order to ensure you’re fixing the root of the issue.
What Can an Osteopath Treat?
Osteopathy is a highly beneficial treatment for many common medical concerns. Osteopathic treatments can help to provide relief and, in some cases, cure chronic physical ailments such as:
- Headaches
- Arthritis
- Back pain, neck pain, and sciatica
- Foot, ankle, hip, and knee pain
- Hand, shoulder, and elbow pain
- Movement dysfunction
- Muscle Atrophy
- Postural problems
- Joint compression
What can I expect on my first visit?
On your first visit, a complete health history will be conducted, and your current medical conditions and your treatment options will be discussed. Several different manual osteopathic techniques are typically used to treat a single patient in a treatment session. It is preferable if you wear loose and comfortable clothing for all treatment sessions. It is typical to require more than one treatment to resolve any problems. (which is why you should book 2 to 3 follow-up appointments when you book your initial visit)
During your first visit, you will start by going over a complete health history with your therapist. Secondly, you will discuss your current medical conditions, treatment options, and any other recommendations made by your therapist. Thirdly, the manual osteopath may provide treatment via a variety of techniques (including soft tissue techniques, joint mobilization, muscle energy techniques, and more) that they may see necessary based on the individual client’s needs. Lastly, exercise homework may be prescribed depending on the manual osteopath’s decisions, or other details regarding follow up appointments will be discussed.
FAQs
How do I know if my insurance covers osteopathic services?
Group health insurance (extended health) benefits, which are paid by private health insurance companies, often include the services provided by Osteopathic Manual Practitioners. Please contact your benefits administrator for information about your group plan, benefits and limitations with respect to coverage for the services of an Osteopathic Manual Practitioner. We insist that you contact your insurance company to confirm if they acknowledge the credentials of the osteopath you are planning to see before your first appointment.
Do I have to have a referral from a doctor for osteopathic treatment?
No, a referral is not necessary to come in for an osteopathic appointment! In some cases though, insurance companies may require a prescription so check with your insurance company before coming in for your appointment.
How many visits will I need?
The number of treatments will vary depending on the problem and individual. After a thorough assessment, the osteopath will discuss their treatment plan for the rehabilitation process. The osteopathic prescription will have an effective end date, we do not have scheduled maintenance visits, however a patient can make appointments for prevention if that is the goal for good health.
Is Osteopathy the same as Chiropractic or Physiotherapy?
Areas We Serve:
Our patients come from all across Niagara including:
Insurance Covered physiotherapy, chiropractor, massage therapy. Extended Health Coverage Direct Billing Available.
Clinic Hours:
Monday 8a.m.–7p.m.
Tuesday 8a.m.–7p.m.
Wednesday 8a.m.–7p.m.
Thursday 8a.m.–7p.m.
Friday 8a.m.–6:30p.m.
Saturday 8a.m.–2p.m.
Sunday Closed