Manual osteopathy is a hands on therapy which address the root cause of imbalances within the body. Overtime these imbalances can lead to pain, injury, and illness. Through a variety of techniques, manual osteopathy restores the body's function, ultimately eliminating any associated pain. Though mainly associated with treating chronic pain, manual osteopathy has many benefits for our overall health. Many individuals seek osteopathic care for wellness purposes and preventative maintenance.

​

On June 22, 1847 osteopathy was founded by Dr. Andrew Taylor Still, an American physician. For over 20 years, Dr. Still worked with Shawnee tribes learning Cherokee healing art and body work. Through his work, he focused on manual techniques in which we use today. When functioning effectively Still believed in the ability of the body to recover from illness naturally. With this came the four main principles of osteopathic care. These principles are the foundation of manual osteopathy. The four main principles are:

 

1) structure governs function

2) the body is interconnected

3) the body has the ability to heal itself 

4) the rule of the artery is supreme

(when blood and lymphatic flow freely, the tissues can function freely)

 

Some of the techniques used during a manual osteopathic treatment include: joint mobilization, muscle energy, soft tissue therapy, visceral & cranial sacral techniques. Through the use of many different techniques, manual osteopathic care is able to treat a variety of conditions.

 

There are many benefits to manual osteopathic care:

Reduction of chronic pain

Treats musculoskeletal conditions

Reduces joint pain & stiffness

Increases ROM

​

Helps with fertility

Reduces tension headaches & migraines

Helps relieve chronic digestive issues

Promotes deeper breathing

​

Reduces inflammation

Increases immune system functioning

Increases joint mobility

Improves circulation

​

Improves posture

Decreases heart rate & blood pressure

Reduces anxiety and depression

Decreases stress

​