Question 1

1. What Is Osteopathy?

Accepted Answer

Manual osteopathy is a gentle, holistic system of health care that focuses on treatment of the body’s structure, in order to optimize functions. While manual osteopathy is best known for pain relief from disorders such as low-back pain, neck pain, shoulder pains, headaches, sciatica, sporting injuries, etc., it also helps to optimize all of the body’s systems (including movement, digestion, sleep, and energy levels) manual osteopathy differentiates between symptoms (like pain) and the cause of those symptoms. For example, a pain in your shoulder may be due to a problem in the shoulder, or the back, or the liver, or postural alignment. 
 
Osteopathic Principles :
The body is a unit.
Structure and function are reciprocally inter-related.
The body possesses self-regulatory mechanisms.
The body has the inherent capacity to defend and repair itself.

Question 2

2. Is Osteopathy Covered By My Insurance?

Accepted Answer

Most extended health plans do have coverage for manual osteopathy. It is up to each client to find out if their plan has coverage. Please refer to our "About Us" page to see each practitioners association information.

Question 3

3. How many appointments will I need?

Accepted Answer

Acute pain refers to short-term pain that arises suddenly due to an injury or medical condition. Osteopathic treatment for acute pain aims to provide immediate relief and support the body's natural healing processes. The number of treatments required may vary depending on the severity of the injury or condition.
- Assessment: The osteopath will conduct a thorough assessment to identify the underlying cause of the acute pain. This may involve reviewing medical history, performing physical examinations, and using diagnostic tools if necessary.

- Pain Management: Osteopathic techniques will be used to reduce pain and inflammation. Soft tissue manipulation, joint mobilization, and gentle stretching exercises may be employed to alleviate discomfort.

- Supportive Care: The osteopath may advise on rest, ice or heat application, and specific exercises or movements to aid recovery.

- Follow-up: Depending on the individual's response to treatment, follow-up sessions may be scheduled as needed to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.

The number of treatments required for acute pain can vary, but often a few sessions (2-6 sessions) spread over a few weeks are sufficient to achieve significant pain relief and promote healing.

Chronic pain refers to persistent pain that lasts for an extended period, usually more than three months. Osteopathy for chronic pain focuses on managing symptoms, improving function, and enhancing the individual's overall quality of life. The treatment plan may be more extensive and involve a combination of therapies tailored to the specific needs of the patient.
- Comprehensive Assessment: A detailed assessment will be conducted to understand the patient's medical history, lifestyle, and the factors contributing to the chronic pain. The osteopath will identify areas of dysfunction, compensation, and other factors that may be perpetuating the pain.

- Multimodal Approach: Osteopathic treatment for chronic pain may include a combination of techniques, such as manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, postural reeducation, and relaxation techniques.

- Pain Management: The osteopath will address pain symptoms through targeted interventions to reduce muscle tension, improve joint mobility, and enhance circulation.

- Functional Restoration: The focus will be on restoring function and improving the patient's ability to perform daily activities with greater ease and reduced pain.

- Education and Self-management: Patients will receive guidance on pain management strategies, exercises they can do at home, and lifestyle modifications to support their recovery.

- Follow-up and Progress Evaluation: Regular follow-up sessions will be scheduled to assess progress, modify the treatment plan if necessary, and ensure the patient's needs are met.
The number of treatments required for chronic pain can vary widely depending on the individual and the complexity of their condition. Generally, a more extended treatment plan is needed, which may involve multiple sessions over several months. Typically, a course of osteopathic treatment for chronic pain may involve 6-12 sessions initially, with periodic follow-up visits as needed to maintain the improvements achieved. In some cases, ongoing maintenance sessions may be recommended to manage symptoms and prevent the reoccurrence of pain. It is important to note that every patient's response to treatment is unique, and the exact number of sessions needed will be determined based on the individual's progress and needs.

Question 4

4. What Conditions Can Osteopathy Treat?

Accepted Answer

Manual Osteopathy, also known as osteopathic manual therapy or osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), is a holistic approach to healthcare that aims to promote overall health and well-being by focusing on the musculoskeletal system and its interconnections with other body systems.

It involves hands-on techniques to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of conditions.  It can complement medical treatment and improve the body's self-healing mechanisms. Some of the conditions that manual osteopathy may help with include:
Back pain (including lower back pain, upper back pain, and sciatica)
Neck pain and stiffness
Headaches and migraines
Joint pain and stiffness (e.g., shoulder pain, hip pain, knee pain)
Musculoskeletal injuries (e.g., sprains, strains, sports injuries)
Postural imbalances and related discomfort
Repetitive strain injuries
Arthritis and degenerative joint conditions
TMJ (Temporomandibular joint) disorders and jaw pain
Sports-related injuries and performance optimization
Pregnancy-related musculoskeletal issues (e.g., back pain, pelvic pain)
Infant and paediatric musculoskeletal conditions (e.g., colic, torticollis)
Digestive issues related to musculoskeletal dysfunction (e.g., irritable bowel syndrome, reflux)
Respiratory issues with a musculoskeletal component (e.g., asthma, rib pain)
Circulatory problems associated with musculoskeletal restrictions (e.g., edema)
Stress-related musculoskeletal tension and pain
Post-surgical rehabilitation and scar tissue management
Neurological conditions with musculoskeletal implications (e.g., tension headaches)
Balance and coordination issues due to musculoskeletal factors
General musculoskeletal discomfort and tension in various areas of the body.
It is essential to consult with a qualified manual osteopath to ensure they are qualified to treat these issues.

Question 5

5. What Should I Expect During My Initial Visit?

Accepted Answer

An initial visit usually consists of a discussion of your issues motion testing manual therapy a discussion of findings a discussion of a treatment plans. Initial visits usually last about 55-60 minutes.  During your treatment the practitioner will discuss with you a treatment plan and protocol to follow outside of the treatments in order to better your problem.  Please bring clothes you would normally exercise in.

Question 6

6. What is the difference between and Osteopathy in Canada and USA?

Accepted Answer

In the United States an osteopath is a medical doctor, trained in methods of diagnosis and treatment of health and disease, placing special emphasis on the inter-relationship of the musculo-skeletal system to all other body systems.
In Canada, an osteopath receives a post-graduate diploma upon completion of their studies.  An osteopath in Canada must possess a degree in a health-related field prior to admission to study in the manual practice of osteopathy.
Upon completion of the required 1400 hours of study and passing written and practical exams, a designation of P.D.O. is granted. Once the P.D.O. has completed a thesis and presented it to an international jury, the designation D.O. or D.O.M.P. (Diploma in Osteopathy) is given.
The common feature between osteopaths from the United States and those from Canada is their belief that the treatment of the patient’s problem involves the patient as a whole and in how their body works in terms of mechanics, rather than just treating the current symptoms they present with.
After a thorough evaluation, the osteopath’s job is to “set” the body to heal itself.
Osteopaths believe that the patient’s history of illness and physical traumas are written into the body’s structure. It is through a highly developed sense of touch that the osteopath evaluates the patient’s “living anatomy” and thus detects physical problems within the systems of the patient.
The osteopath then applies a gentle but precise force to the patient’s tissues, which promotes movement of body fluids, eliminates dysfunction in motion of the tissues, and releases compressed bones and joints.
Osteopaths are trained primarily to use their hands to treat patients. They use a variety of different techniques, but they will always be “hands on”. This enables the osteopath to monitor the state of the patient’s tissues and to tailor the treatment exactly to the patient’s needs at that time.

Question 7

7. Does Osteopathy treat chronic pain?

Accepted Answer

Manual Osteopathy is a form of alternative medicine that focuses on the musculoskeletal system and its influence on overall health. It is based on the belief that the body has the ability to self-heal and that manual manipulation of the musculoskeletal system can help facilitate this process. Manual Osteopaths use a variety of techniques, such as soft tissue manipulation, joint mobilization, and stretching, to address musculoskeletal issues and promote well-being.

Proponents of Manual Osteopathy argue that it may be beneficial for treating chronic pain for several reasons:
- Holistic approach: Manual Osteopathy considers the body as a whole, rather than just focusing on specific symptoms. Practitioners try to identify and address the root cause of pain, which may lead to more comprehensive and long-lasting relief.

- Non-invasive: Manual Osteopathic techniques are generally non-invasive, meaning they do not involve surgery or pharmaceutical drugs. This can be appealing to individuals seeking natural or drug-free alternatives for pain management.

- Pain relief: Manual Osteopathy aims to restore the body's natural alignment and balance, potentially alleviating pressure on nerves and reducing pain and discomfort.

- Individualized treatment: Manual Osteopaths typically tailor their treatments to each patient's unique needs and medical history. This personalized approach may lead to more targeted and effective pain management strategies.

- Minimal side effects: Since Manual Osteopathy primarily involves hands-on techniques, the risk of adverse reactions and side effects is generally low compared to more invasive treatments or medications.

Question 8

8. What is Visceral Osteopathy?

Accepted Answer

Osteopathy offers a distinctive approach to address and alleviate visceral issues through specialized techniques known as visceral manipulation. This method focuses on assessing and treating the motion of organs within the body to promote better organ function and overall health.

Visceral manipulation involves working with the fascia and ligaments that connect the organs of the digestive tract to adjacent organs, the deep abdominal wall, diaphragm, ribs, pelvis, and spine. By addressing the motion of these organs, Osteopathic Practitioners ensure that the corresponding levels of the spine innervating these organs remain mobile and free from distress. This is crucial because spinal restrictions can lead to altered nerve signalling to the organs associated with those vertebrae.

For instance, consider the vagus nerve, which extends from the base of the skull, travels down the front of the neck, and reaches into the chest and abdomen. Osteopathic Practitioners focus on releasing soft tissue and joint restrictions in the cranial base and upper neck, as these areas often experience compression that affects the vagus nerve.

The vagus nerve plays a significant role in regulating the balance between the rest and digest function of the parasympathetic nervous system and the fight or flight response of the sympathetic nervous system. In a healthy state, these two systems maintain relative equilibrium. However, if an individual experiences continued stress or physical and emotional pain, the sympathetic nervous system may become overactive, disrupting this balance.

This imbalance can lead to a range of issues, including digestive disorders, interference with peristalsis (the wave-like contractions of the digestive tract), improper opening and closing of sphincters, fluctuations in stomach acid production, increased gut permeability, and imbalances in gut bacteria.
By applying visceral manipulation techniques, Osteopathy aims to restore harmony between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, thereby addressing the root cause of these visceral issues. This can contribute to improved digestive function, reduced stress-related symptoms, and overall well-being.

Examples of visceral issues that may benefit from Osteopathic treatment include:
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) - Osteopathic manipulation can help alleviate abdominal discomfort and restore proper bowel function in individuals with IBS.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) - Visceral manipulation may address the underlying factors contributing to GERD, such as improper sphincter function or stomach acid imbalances.
- Constipation and Diarrhea - By addressing organ mobility and nerve signalling, Osteopathy may improve bowel movement regularity and consistency.

- Stress-related Digestive Issues - Osteopathic techniques can help reduce stress levels and restore the balance between sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system activity, which can positively impact digestive health.
It is important to note that while Osteopathy has shown promise in addressing visceral issues, each individual's response to treatment may vary, especially if diet and lifestyle choices outside of the treatments are not changed.

Question 9

9. How does Osteopathy treat Jaw/Headaches/Migraines?

Accepted Answer

The Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) is a crucial joint that connects your jaw to the temporal bones at the base of your skull. This intricate joint is responsible for facilitating the movement necessary for opening and closing your mouth. It is supported by a network of muscles, ligaments, and a specialized disc that work in harmony to provide stability and ensure smooth jaw movements.
When you open and close your mouth, you may sometimes observe that your jaw deviates from its midline position. This deviation can be attributed to a combination of factors, including tension in the ligaments, muscle imbalances, and misalignment of the disc within the joint. These issues can lead to the TMJ becoming stuck in either an open or closed mouth position, causing discomfort and hindering proper jaw function.
A common consequence of TMJ dysfunction is the manifestation of various symptoms that can significantly impact a person's quality of life. Some of the key symptoms associated with TMJ problems include:

- TMJ muscle pain and stiffness: Individuals with TMJ issues often experience pain and discomfort in the muscles surrounding the joint, particularly when moving the jaw.

- Headaches - Migraine and Tension: TMJ dysfunction can lead to headaches, both migraines and tension headaches, due to the interconnectedness of the jaw muscles and nerves.

- Earaches and pressure in the ears: Problems with the TMJ can cause referred pain to the ears, leading to earaches and feelings of pressure in the ears.

- Tinnitus: Some individuals may develop tinnitus, a ringing or buzzing sound in the ears, as a result of TMJ-related issues.

- Pain on chewing: Pain while chewing or difficulty in chewing food is a common complaint among those experiencing TMJ dysfunction.

- Teeth grinding and clenching: TMJ problems can lead to bruxism, which is the unconscious grinding and clenching of teeth, often during sleep.

- Pain in the face or neck: Discomfort and pain in the facial area and neck are frequent symptoms associated with TMJ issues.

- A change in how your teeth fit together: Misalignment of the TMJ can cause changes in the bite, leading to an improper alignment of the upper and lower teeth.

- Clicking or locking: Some individuals may hear clicking, popping, or locking sounds when they move their jaw, which can be indicative of TMJ problems.

- Sinus congestion and airway issues: TMJ dysfunction may sometimes contribute to sinus congestion and airway problems, impacting a person's ability to breathe comfortably.

Fortunately, osteopathy has proven to be an extremely effective treatment option for individuals seeking relief from TMJ-related pain and discomfort. Osteopathic techniques aim to address the root causes of TMJ dysfunction, such as restoring proper alignment, reducing muscle tension, and improving joint mobility. By providing comprehensive and individualized care, osteopaths can help alleviate TMJ symptoms and improve overall jaw function, leading to improved quality of life for those affected by this condition.

Question 10

13. How does Osteopathy help me with sports injuries and rehabilitation?

Accepted Answer

Osteopathy can be a valuable and effective approach to address sports injuries and aid in rehabilitation. Osteopathy is a holistic form of manual therapy that focuses on the body's musculoskeletal system and its relationship with overall health and well-being. Osteopathic practitioners, known as osteopaths, use a hands-on, patient centred approach to diagnose and treat injuries, aiming to restore optimal function and promote the body's natural healing processes.
Here are some ways in which osteopathy can help with sports injuries and rehabilitation:
Pain relief: Osteopathic techniques, such as soft tissue manipulation, joint mobilization, and muscle energy techniques, can help alleviate pain caused by sports injuries. By addressing musculoskeletal imbalances and reducing tension in affected areas, pain relief can be achieved without relying solely on medication.

Improved joint mobility and flexibility: Sports injuries can often lead to restricted joint movement and reduced flexibility. Osteopathic manipulations can help improve joint mobility, increase range of motion, and restore flexibility, allowing athletes to regain their functional abilities.

Accelerated healing: Osteopathy aims to enhance the body's natural healing processes. By optimizing blood flow, lymphatic drainage, and nerve function, osteopathic treatments can support the healing of injured tissues and reduce the recovery time for athletes.

Posture correction: Osteopaths assess and address postural imbalances that might have contributed to sports injuries. By correcting posture and alignment, athletes can reduce the risk of recurring injuries and enhance their overall performance.

Rehabilitation support: Osteopaths work in conjunction with other healthcare professionals, such as physiotherapists and sports trainers, to develop comprehensive rehabilitation programs. These programs are tailored to the individual athlete's needs and focus on promoting recovery while preventing further injuries.

Prevention of future injuries: Osteopaths take a proactive approach to sports injuries by identifying potential areas of weakness and imbalances in the body. By addressing these issues, athletes can reduce the likelihood of sustaining future injuries during training and competition.

Psychological support: Sports injuries can have a significant psychological impact on athletes, leading to anxiety, frustration, and reduced confidence. Osteopathic consultations often involve listening to the athlete's concerns and providing support, which can positively influence their mental outlook during the recovery process.

Performance optimization: Even when not dealing with a specific injury, athletes can benefit from osteopathy to optimize their physical condition. Regular osteopathic treatments can help improve overall body mechanics, enhance performance, and prevent minor issues from developing into more severe injuries.

Question 11

10. Can I come see and Osteopath for shoulder joint pain?

Accepted Answer

Osteopathy offers a comprehensive approach to address shoulder joint pain by employing various techniques that target the underlying causes of the discomfort and dysfunction. The shoulder joint is a complex structure that involves the interaction of muscles, ligaments, fascia, and joint capsule. When it is not functioning optimally, it can lead to a range of issues, including pinching tendons, neck pain, and tingling sensations in the hand. Here's how osteopathy can help alleviate shoulder joint pain in more detail:
Soft Tissue Techniques:

Osteopaths use soft tissue techniques to realign the shoulder joint and release tension in ligaments, fascia, joint capsule, and muscles. By doing so, they can address common tendencies of the ball in the shoulder joint to sit forwards and upwards in the socket, which may cause impingement of tendons and trigger neck muscle gripping. Improving the alignment and mobility of the shoulder joint enhances shoulder blade mechanics, reducing associated neck pain. This approach, known as Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT), aims to restore proper function and range of motion to the shoulder joint.

Addressing Neighbouring Joints: 
In joint pain treatment, osteopaths also consider the neighbouring joints like the collarbone, ribs, neck, elbow, and wrist. Ensuring that these adjacent structures are moving well is crucial for maintaining proper shoulder function and preventing compensatory patterns that could exacerbate shoulder joint pain.
Releasing Upper Lung to Lower Neck Ligaments: 
Osteopaths may focus on releasing the ligaments that connect the upper lung to the lower neck. By doing so, they can free up the shoulder girdle and reduce nerve-related symptoms like tingling sensations in the hand. Additionally, they consider how tension in other areas, such as the stomach or liver, may impact the shoulder through their fascial connections. This approach, known as Visceral Manipulation, addresses potential contributions from organs and their related structures.

Cranial Techniques: 
Osteopaths may employ cranial techniques to open the pathway of the accessory nerve, which can help alleviate tension and dysfunction in muscles that act on the shoulder, such as the Trapezius and Sternocleidomastoid. By softening these problematic muscles, cranial-sacral therapy can contribute to improved shoulder function and decreased pain.

Exercise Program:
Osteopaths often prescribe tailored exercise programs to reinforce optimal movement patterns while stabilizing and strengthening muscles. These exercises aim to address muscle imbalances, enhance shoulder joint stability, and promote proper movement mechanics. An individualized exercise plan can support the effects of osteopathic treatment and contribute to long-term improvement and prevention of recurrence.
By utilizing a combination of manual techniques and exercise programs, osteopathy provides a holistic and integrative approach to shoulder joint pain, addressing both the symptoms and the underlying causes of the discomfort. Patients can benefit from reduced pain, improved function, and enhanced overall well-being.

Question 12

11. Does Osteopathy work for lower back pain?

Accepted Answer

Osteopathy is a holistic approach to treating lower back pain that focuses on restoring the body's natural balance and function. Osteopaths recognize the significance of the spine's normal curvature, which involves an arched lower back, rounded mid-back, and arched neck. This alignment allows the centre of gravity to pass smoothly through the spine, distributing the load evenly among the vertebrae designed to bear such weight.

In cases where lower back pain arises from postural imbalances, falls on the tailbone, or whiplash injuries, an osteopath seeks to address these root causes to alleviate discomfort and promote healing.

By carefully examining the patient's posture and movement patterns, an osteopath identifies any flattening or exaggerated curves in the spine that may disrupt the ideal line of gravity.

One essential element of osteopathic treatment for lower back pain is the attention given to the discs situated between the vertebrae. These discs act as shock absorbers, and their proper alignment is crucial for maintaining spinal health. An osteopath uses manual techniques, such as gentle manipulations and mobilizations, to encourage the optimal positioning of these intervertebral discs.

An osteopath recognizes the significance of nerves that pass through the spinal canal at each level, supplying muscles and organs. Nerve compression due to postural imbalances or misalignments can lead to issues like pinched nerves, nerve pain, and even more severe conditions like disc protrusions.

Osteopathic treatment aims to rebalance the body's soft tissues and structures to address joint degeneration, arthritis in the spine or hips, and soft tissue dysfunctions like sprains, strains, and other related injuries. By using hands-on techniques, an osteopath gently works on the muscles, ligaments, and tendons to alleviate tension and restore proper function.

Osteopaths can treat a wide range of conditions that may contribute to lower back pain. Their approach is holistic, addressing not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes of the pain. Some of the conditions osteopaths may treat to help lower back pain include:
Muscle Strains and Sprains: Osteopaths can address muscle strains and sprains in the lower back caused by overuse, sudden movements, or improper lifting techniques.

Joint Dysfunctions: Osteopaths are skilled in identifying and treating joint dysfunctions in the spine, pelvis, and hips that may lead to lower back pain.

Herniated Discs: Osteopaths can use manual techniques to reduce pressure on herniated discs and promote their healing.

Sciatica: Osteopaths can address sciatic nerve irritation or compression, a common cause of lower back pain that radiates down the leg.

Postural Imbalances: Osteopaths assess and correct postural imbalances that can strain the lower back and lead to chronic pain.

Scoliosis and Spinal Curvature: Osteopathic manipulative treatments can help manage pain and improve mobility in individuals with scoliosis or abnormal spinal curvatures.

Arthritis: Osteopathic techniques can provide relief for individuals with arthritis in the spine or hips, reducing inflammation and improving joint function.

Muscle Tension and Trigger Points: Osteopaths can release muscle tension and address trigger points in the lower back muscles that contribute to pain.

Nerve Impingement: Osteopaths can alleviate nerve compression or impingement in the lumbar spine, which can cause lower back pain and referred pain to other areas.

Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction: Osteopaths can treat sacroiliac joint dysfunction, a condition affecting the joint connecting the sacrum and the pelvis, which can lead to lower back pain.

Pregnancy-related Back Pain: Osteopathic treatment can provide relief for lower back pain associated with pregnancy and the postpartum period.

Occupational and Lifestyle Factors: Osteopaths can address lower back pain related to poor ergonomics, repetitive movements, or lifestyle habits that contribute to musculoskeletal strain.

Question 13

12. How does Osteopathy treat my traumas/stress disorders/personal development

Accepted Answer

We have a unique approach using the deep layers of Osteopathy and Quantum Wave Living to help you change your patterns of living.

How Osteopathy Can Help with Trauma:
Physical Manifestations of Trauma: Traumatic experiences can lead to physical tension, discomfort, and pain. Osteopathy can address musculoskeletal imbalances resulting from traumatic events, helping to relieve physical manifestations of trauma, such as chronic pain or muscle tension.

Nervous System Regulation: Trauma can affect the autonomic nervous system, leading to heightened states of arousal or hyper-vigilance. Osteopathic treatments can influence the nervous system, promoting relaxation and calming the body's stress response.

Posture and Body Awareness: Trauma can cause individuals to hold tension or adopt protective postures unconsciously. Osteopathic interventions can enhance body awareness, encouraging healthier postural habits and releasing patterns of tension held in the body.
Quantum Wave Living: Quantum Wave Living is a concept rooted in the idea that everything is made up of energy and interconnected on a quantum level. This approach emphasizes the role of consciousness and the mind in healing. Practitioners of Quantum Wave Living may use various techniques, such as energy healing, meditation, and visualization, to facilitate healing and transformation on a deeper level.

How Quantum Wave Living Can Help with Trauma:
Emotional Release: Traumatic experiences can leave deep emotional imprints. Quantum Wave Living techniques can help individuals release emotional blockages and unresolved feelings related to trauma, promoting emotional healing.

Empowerment and Mindset Shifts: Quantum Wave Living encourages individuals to shift their perspectives and beliefs, empowering them to overcome the limitations imposed by past traumas and embrace positive change.

Stress Reduction and Resilience: Quantum Wave Living practices, such as meditation and energy healing, can reduce stress and increase resilience, helping individuals cope with the aftereffects of trauma.

Please note you can do Quantum Wave Living appointments online and benefit just as much as a hands on treatment
Combining Osteopathy and Quantum Wave Living can offer a comprehensive and multidimensional approach to trauma treatment. Osteopathy addresses the physical aspects of trauma, while Quantum Wave Living addresses the emotional, mental, and energetic aspects, fostering a more complete healing process. It's important to note that trauma treatment is highly individualized, and different approaches may resonate differently with each person. Integrative care that considers the unique needs of the individual can be a powerful way to support trauma recovery. As with any therapeutic approach, seeking guidance from trained and qualified practitioners is essential for a safe and effective healing journey.