By Jean A. Swift, D.O.
The Osteopathic concept emphasizes the following principles: The human person is a unit in which structure, function, mind and spirit are mutually and reciprocally interdependent. The body tends to be self-regulatory and self-healing in the face of disease processes. Adequate function of body systems depends upon the unimpeded circulatory mechanisms, nerve impulses and neurotrophic influences. This philosophy and these principles permeate all aspects of health maintenance and disease prevention and treatment by an Osteopath.
Andrew Taylor Still, M.D. developed Osteopathic medicine in 1874. After three of his children died from meningitis he became dissatisfied with the effectiveness of 19 th century medicine. Osteopathy is a unique form of American medical care in which Dr. Still emphasized, for the first time, the importance of maintaining good health to prevent disease. He emphasized the importance of the neuromusculoskeletal system as a key element to health. He recognized the body’s ability to heal itself, he stressed preventive medicine, eating properly and keeping fit. He pioneered the “wellness” concept over 125 years ago.
Like their M.D. counterparts, Osteopathic physicians must complete four years of undergraduate study, four years of medical school and then pursue post-graduate training in one of 22 areas of specialty, e.g. family practice, internal medicine, obstetrics, emergency medicine, surgery and psychiatry. This area of specialty practice requires from two to six years of additional training. Doctor of Osteopathy (D.O.) is one of two medical degrees, which qualify physicians to acquire unrestricted licenses to practice medicine and surgery in all 50 states in the U.S.
Osteopathic physicians practice with all the tools of modern medicine, including prescribing medications and performing surgery. They also recognize the importance of the neuromusculoskeletal system. An Abnormality in the structure of any body part can lead to abnormal function somewhere in the body. Osteopathy places special emphasis upon the importance of body mechanics and uses manipulative techniques to detect and correct faulty structure and function. Osteopathic manipulation therapy (OMT) is gentle and controlled. It may be directed toward joint motion or directed toward the muscles and fascia. It is utilized to affect circulation, lymphatic drainage and nerve impulses to improve the overall health of the individual.
Anyone who has suffered a sports injury, motor vehicle accident, difficult childbirth or chronic recurring pain such as headache, backache and repetitive strain can benefit from Osteopathic manipulation therapy (OMT). Pregnant women with a shift in their center of gravity suffering from back or pelvic pain, newborns after a long and trying labor, children injured in the many falls of the toddler years & early team sports, all can benefit from OMT. The techniques are gentle enough for the newbord & practical enough to integrate into the well-child and adult regimen of medical preventive care to maintain optimum health and well being throughout life.
Sunday, March 12, 2006
Osteopathic techniques in wide use
There are several specific osteopathic techniques in wide use, many of which are named after their founders. Some of the more popular are Greenman muscle-energy, Jones counterstrain (also known as strain-counterstrain), myofascial release, and cranial-sacral therapy (formally known as osteopathy in the cranial field).
Greenman Muscle-energy Technique
Greenman muscle-energy technique involves bending a joint just up to the point where muscular resistance to movement begins (“the barrier”), and then holding it there while the patient gently resists. The pressure is maintained for a few seconds and then released. After a brief pause to allow the affected muscles to relax, the practitioner then moves the joint a little farther into the barrier, which will usually have shifted slightly toward improved mobility during the interval.
Strain-counterstrain Technique (Jones Counterstrain)
Strain-counterstrain technique (Jones counterstrain) involves finding tender points and then manipulating the joint connected to them in order to find a position where the tenderness decreases toward zero. Once this precise angle is found, it is held for 90 seconds and then released. Like muscle-energy work, strain-counterstrain progressively increases range of motion and, it is hoped, decreases muscle spasm and pain.
Myofacial Release
Myofacial release focuses on the fascial tissues that surround muscles. The practitioner first positions the painful area either at the edge of the barrier to movement or, alternatively, at the opposite extreme (the area of greatest comfort). Next, while the patient breathes slowly and easily, the practitioner palpates the fascial tissues, looking for a subtle sensation that indicates the tissues are ready to “unwind.” After receiving this indication, the practitioner then helps the tissue to follow a pattern of spontaneous movement. This process is repeated over several sessions until a full release is achieved. Myofascial release is said to be especially useful in pain conditions that have persisted for months or years.
Cranial-sacral Therapy
Cranial-sacral therapy, more properly called cranial osteopathy (or just cranial for short), is a very specialized technique based on the scientifically unconfirmed belief that the tissues surrounding the brain and spinal cord undergo a rhythmic pulsation. This “cranial rhythm” is supposed to cause subtle movements of the bones of the skull. A practitioner of cranial-sacral therapy gently manipulates these bones in time with the rhythm (as determined by the practitioner’s awareness), in order to repair “cranial lesions.” This therapy is said to be helpful for numerous conditions ranging from headaches and sinus allergies to multiple sclerosis and asthma. However, many researchers have serious doubts that the cranial rhythm even exists.
Greenman Muscle-energy Technique
Greenman muscle-energy technique involves bending a joint just up to the point where muscular resistance to movement begins (“the barrier”), and then holding it there while the patient gently resists. The pressure is maintained for a few seconds and then released. After a brief pause to allow the affected muscles to relax, the practitioner then moves the joint a little farther into the barrier, which will usually have shifted slightly toward improved mobility during the interval.
Strain-counterstrain Technique (Jones Counterstrain)
Strain-counterstrain technique (Jones counterstrain) involves finding tender points and then manipulating the joint connected to them in order to find a position where the tenderness decreases toward zero. Once this precise angle is found, it is held for 90 seconds and then released. Like muscle-energy work, strain-counterstrain progressively increases range of motion and, it is hoped, decreases muscle spasm and pain.
Myofacial Release
Myofacial release focuses on the fascial tissues that surround muscles. The practitioner first positions the painful area either at the edge of the barrier to movement or, alternatively, at the opposite extreme (the area of greatest comfort). Next, while the patient breathes slowly and easily, the practitioner palpates the fascial tissues, looking for a subtle sensation that indicates the tissues are ready to “unwind.” After receiving this indication, the practitioner then helps the tissue to follow a pattern of spontaneous movement. This process is repeated over several sessions until a full release is achieved. Myofascial release is said to be especially useful in pain conditions that have persisted for months or years.
Cranial-sacral Therapy
Cranial-sacral therapy, more properly called cranial osteopathy (or just cranial for short), is a very specialized technique based on the scientifically unconfirmed belief that the tissues surrounding the brain and spinal cord undergo a rhythmic pulsation. This “cranial rhythm” is supposed to cause subtle movements of the bones of the skull. A practitioner of cranial-sacral therapy gently manipulates these bones in time with the rhythm (as determined by the practitioner’s awareness), in order to repair “cranial lesions.” This therapy is said to be helpful for numerous conditions ranging from headaches and sinus allergies to multiple sclerosis and asthma. However, many researchers have serious doubts that the cranial rhythm even exists.
Tuesday, March 07, 2006
What is Sclerotherapy?
Source:http://acopms.com/
American College of Osteopathic Sclerotherapeutic Pain Management
Q: What is Sclerotherapy
A: Sclerotherapy, also know as prolotherapy (proliferative therapy), ligament reconstruction therapy, and fibro-osseous injection therapy, is a recognized orthopedic procedure that stimulates the body’s nature healing processes to strengthen joints weakened by traumatic or over-use injury. Joints when ligaments or tendon attachments are stretched , torn, or fragmented, become hypermobile and painful. Traditional approaches with surgery and anti-inflammatory drugs often fail to stabilized the joint and relieve this pain permanently. Sclerotherapy, with its unique ability to directly address the cause of the instability, can repair the weakened sites and produce new fibrous tissues, resulting in permanent stabilization of the joint. Sclerotherapy can also be used to treat varicose veins, spider veins, hemorrhoids, other vascular abnormalities and other similar conditions.
Q: How does Sclerotherapy work?
A: With a precise injection of a mild irritant solution directly on the site of the torn or stretched ligament or tendon, sclerotherapy creates a mild, controlled injury that stimulates the body’s natural healing mechanisms to lay down new tissue on the weakened area. The mild inflammatory response that is created by the injection encourages growth of new ligament or tendon fibers, resulting in a tightening of the weakened structure. Additional treatments repeat this process, allowing a gradual buildup of tissue to restore the original strength to the area. Injection of varicose veins and other similar abnormalities creates a mild inflammatory response causing them to contract so that they become smaller or even vanish.
Q: What is in the solution that is injected?
A: The sclerotherapy injections contain anesthetic agents and natural substances which stimulate the healing response. There are numerous substances, and each treating physician tailors the selection of substance according to the patient’s need.
Q: Is the Sclerotherapy treatment painful?
A: Any pain involving an injection will vary according to the structure to be treated, the choice of solution, and the skill of the physician administering the injection. The treatment may result in mild swelling and stiffness. The mild discomfort passes fairly rapidly and can be reduced with pain relievers such as Tylenol. Anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, should not be used for pain relief because their action suppresses the desired inflammatory process produced by the injection.
Q: Can Sclerotherapy help everyone?
A: Each patient must be evaluated thoroughly with patient history, physical exam, X-ray exam, and full laboratory work up before treatment will be administered. With this information, your physician can evaluate your potential success with this therapy. Success depends on factors which include the history of damage to the patient, the patient’s overall health and ability to heal, and any underlying nutritional deficiencies that would impede the healing process.
Q: Who administers Sclerotherapy?
A: Physicians who administer this form of therapy are trained by the American College of Osteopathic Pain Management & Sclerotherapy. Postgraduate training is a prerequisite before treating any patient with a medical orthopedic problem, vein problem, or other condition which might benefit from sclerotherapy.
Q: What areas of the body can be treated?
A: This form of therapy can be used to treat dislocation of the joints, knee pain, shoulder pain, Temporal Mandibular Joint dysfunction, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, and disc problems at any level of the spine. The therapy affects only the area treated and does not cause any problem in any other area. Spider veins, abnormal or bulging veins and other similar conditions can be treated on the legs, feet, hands, arms, breast, face, and most other areas.
Q: How often do I need these treatments?
A: The treatments should be administered every one, two, or three weeks, as determined by your treating physician. Vein treatments are usually scheduled four or more weeks apart.
Q: What’s the rate of success in treatment?
A: The anticipated rate of success depends on a number of variables, including the patient’s history and ability to heal, and the type of solution used. In patients with low back pain with hypermobility, 85% to 95% of patienst treated experience remission of pain with this form of therapy. In comparison, the Journal of Bone and Joint Therapy reports on a 52% improvement in patients treated surgically for disc involvement. Varicose veins can usually be 90% to 100% eliminated. Spider veins can usually be improved 70% to 90%.
Q: Is this form of therapy really new?
A: Sclerotherapy/prolotherapy has been used successfully as early as 500 B.C. when Roman soldiers with shoulder joint dislocations were treated with hot branding irons to help fuse the torn ligaments in the shoulder joint. Advances in medicines greatly improved on this process, and led to the modern techniques of strengthening the fibrous tissue rather than producing scarring to fuse tissues. In 1926, a group of physicians met with great success using injection therapy to treat hernias and hemorrhoids. Earl Gedney, D.O., a well-known Orthopedist, decreased his surgical practice and began to inject joints with these newer injectible medicines in the 1940s and 1950s. Also, in 1950, George Stuart Hackett, M.D., wrote a book on injection therapy. His work is still used today in training physicians. In the years since this early work, techniques and medications have advanced to move from a scarring or fusing effect to a strengthening effect, which restores the weakened joint to its original level of stability, without loss of flexibility and function.
Hippocrates described vein sclerotherapy around 400 B.C. using “slender instruments of iron” to treat varicose veins causing vein ulcers. Injection sclerotherapy of veins was first reported in 1623, and modern forms of injection sclerotherapy for varicose veins and similar diseases has been performed since the early 1900’s. Refinements and clinical study over the past few decades have dramatically improved our understanding of vein sclerotherapy, and improved the results.
American College of Osteopathic Sclerotherapeutic Pain Management
Q: What is Sclerotherapy
A: Sclerotherapy, also know as prolotherapy (proliferative therapy), ligament reconstruction therapy, and fibro-osseous injection therapy, is a recognized orthopedic procedure that stimulates the body’s nature healing processes to strengthen joints weakened by traumatic or over-use injury. Joints when ligaments or tendon attachments are stretched , torn, or fragmented, become hypermobile and painful. Traditional approaches with surgery and anti-inflammatory drugs often fail to stabilized the joint and relieve this pain permanently. Sclerotherapy, with its unique ability to directly address the cause of the instability, can repair the weakened sites and produce new fibrous tissues, resulting in permanent stabilization of the joint. Sclerotherapy can also be used to treat varicose veins, spider veins, hemorrhoids, other vascular abnormalities and other similar conditions.
Q: How does Sclerotherapy work?
A: With a precise injection of a mild irritant solution directly on the site of the torn or stretched ligament or tendon, sclerotherapy creates a mild, controlled injury that stimulates the body’s natural healing mechanisms to lay down new tissue on the weakened area. The mild inflammatory response that is created by the injection encourages growth of new ligament or tendon fibers, resulting in a tightening of the weakened structure. Additional treatments repeat this process, allowing a gradual buildup of tissue to restore the original strength to the area. Injection of varicose veins and other similar abnormalities creates a mild inflammatory response causing them to contract so that they become smaller or even vanish.
Q: What is in the solution that is injected?
A: The sclerotherapy injections contain anesthetic agents and natural substances which stimulate the healing response. There are numerous substances, and each treating physician tailors the selection of substance according to the patient’s need.
Q: Is the Sclerotherapy treatment painful?
A: Any pain involving an injection will vary according to the structure to be treated, the choice of solution, and the skill of the physician administering the injection. The treatment may result in mild swelling and stiffness. The mild discomfort passes fairly rapidly and can be reduced with pain relievers such as Tylenol. Anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, should not be used for pain relief because their action suppresses the desired inflammatory process produced by the injection.
Q: Can Sclerotherapy help everyone?
A: Each patient must be evaluated thoroughly with patient history, physical exam, X-ray exam, and full laboratory work up before treatment will be administered. With this information, your physician can evaluate your potential success with this therapy. Success depends on factors which include the history of damage to the patient, the patient’s overall health and ability to heal, and any underlying nutritional deficiencies that would impede the healing process.
Q: Who administers Sclerotherapy?
A: Physicians who administer this form of therapy are trained by the American College of Osteopathic Pain Management & Sclerotherapy. Postgraduate training is a prerequisite before treating any patient with a medical orthopedic problem, vein problem, or other condition which might benefit from sclerotherapy.
Q: What areas of the body can be treated?
A: This form of therapy can be used to treat dislocation of the joints, knee pain, shoulder pain, Temporal Mandibular Joint dysfunction, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, and disc problems at any level of the spine. The therapy affects only the area treated and does not cause any problem in any other area. Spider veins, abnormal or bulging veins and other similar conditions can be treated on the legs, feet, hands, arms, breast, face, and most other areas.
Q: How often do I need these treatments?
A: The treatments should be administered every one, two, or three weeks, as determined by your treating physician. Vein treatments are usually scheduled four or more weeks apart.
Q: What’s the rate of success in treatment?
A: The anticipated rate of success depends on a number of variables, including the patient’s history and ability to heal, and the type of solution used. In patients with low back pain with hypermobility, 85% to 95% of patienst treated experience remission of pain with this form of therapy. In comparison, the Journal of Bone and Joint Therapy reports on a 52% improvement in patients treated surgically for disc involvement. Varicose veins can usually be 90% to 100% eliminated. Spider veins can usually be improved 70% to 90%.
Q: Is this form of therapy really new?
A: Sclerotherapy/prolotherapy has been used successfully as early as 500 B.C. when Roman soldiers with shoulder joint dislocations were treated with hot branding irons to help fuse the torn ligaments in the shoulder joint. Advances in medicines greatly improved on this process, and led to the modern techniques of strengthening the fibrous tissue rather than producing scarring to fuse tissues. In 1926, a group of physicians met with great success using injection therapy to treat hernias and hemorrhoids. Earl Gedney, D.O., a well-known Orthopedist, decreased his surgical practice and began to inject joints with these newer injectible medicines in the 1940s and 1950s. Also, in 1950, George Stuart Hackett, M.D., wrote a book on injection therapy. His work is still used today in training physicians. In the years since this early work, techniques and medications have advanced to move from a scarring or fusing effect to a strengthening effect, which restores the weakened joint to its original level of stability, without loss of flexibility and function.
Hippocrates described vein sclerotherapy around 400 B.C. using “slender instruments of iron” to treat varicose veins causing vein ulcers. Injection sclerotherapy of veins was first reported in 1623, and modern forms of injection sclerotherapy for varicose veins and similar diseases has been performed since the early 1900’s. Refinements and clinical study over the past few decades have dramatically improved our understanding of vein sclerotherapy, and improved the results.
Osteopathic Approach Muscle Energy Technique
Osteopathic Approach
Systematic assessment of a body’s physical restrictions. These restrictions are prioritized and released in a specific sequence dealing with the greatest restriction first. This area may be distant to the patient’s area of chief complaint. This total body approach is based on the principle that dominant areas of restrictions may cause excessive stresses on other areas of the body. These compensatory stresses are usually the areas that bring the patient in seeking relief of pain in that area. The success of this approach lies in the ability of the physical therapist to identify the patient’s chief restrictions
Muscle Energy Technique
Muscle Energy Technique is a direct technique originally developed by Fred Mitchel, Sr., DO. The purpose of this technique is to treat joint hypomobility (stiffness) and restore proper biomechanical and physiological function to the joint(s). Since it is an approach that is based on Somatic Dysfunction, the patient undergoes a whole body screening evaluation for joint hypomobility. The results are prioritized to find the most dominant dysfunction/restriction. The dominant segmental is then specifically localized using the motion barrier concept. Different patient positions are utilized to engage the restriction before asking the patient to perform an isometric contraction to pull the restricted segment into a new motion barrier. The isometric contraction is performed in a precisely controlled direction against a precisely controlled counterforce by the therapist. The result is improved spinal mobility without the need for passive manipulation. Muscle Energy Technique is effective for mobilizing restricted joints, relaxing hypertonic and spastic muscles as well as facilitating neuromuscular reorganization. It is an appropriate technique for patients whose symptoms are aggravated by certain postures or bodily positions. Each treatment session begins and ends with a screening technique to assess the outcome of the manual techniques. This can be rewarding for the patient as the experience changes in mobility with concomitant reduction in pain.
Positional Release Therapy
Positional Release Therapy is a manual technique that restores a muscle to its normal resting tone. Assessment of trigger points allows identification of hypertonic muscles that are creating somatic dysfunction. Patients are placed in positions that approximate the origin and insertion of the hypertonic muscle. In doing so the muscle spindle activation is inhibited thereby decreasing the amount of afferent impulses to the brain. This leads to less efferent impulses to the same muscle. These efferent impulses were attempting to protect the tissue from being over stretched. By interrupting this pathway, the patient’s muscle is allowed to relax and assume a normal resting tone. The process is completed by slowly and passively returning the patient to an anatomical neutral position without firing of the muscle spindle. The patient is then instructed in appropriate home stretching for the affected area to complete this integrated therapeutic approach.
Myofascial Release Technique
When attempting to understand what fascia is like in our bodies, the best analogy is to think about slicing a grapefruit in half. After removing the fruit from the rind, it is easy to see all of the individual compartments that are left. These translucent walls give shape and definition to the object. Fascia in our bodies acts very similar to these compartment walls. The function of fascia is to support and protect the following structures in our body: blood vessels, bones, muscles, organs and nerves. Fascia is one continuous layer of connective tissue spreading from head to toe, but in three dimensions. It is closely integrated with all structures in our body, all the way down to a cellular level. As we age we accumulate compounding stresses to our fascial system. Fascial restrictions from poor posture or habitual motions, not to mention traumatic events, can slowly influence the structural mobility of our body and pull us out of alignment. These stresses can create pain and dysfunction.Physical therapists trained in Myofascial release technique can reduce these restrictions by applying gentle pressure and mobilizing the tissues to reduce the viscosity of the ground substance between two fascia layers
Somatic Dysfunction
A functional model of musculoskeletal disorders states that biomechanical disturbances are a manifestation of the intrinsic properties of the tissues affected. The body’s ability to adapt to physiological stresses is demonstrated as loss of joint mobility, loss of tissue resiliency and gross changes in motion or postural symmetry. These physiological adaptations are collectively described as Somatic Dysfunction. Tissue restrictions in one area of the body can have a profound impact on other areas of the body. Effective musculoskeletal therapy should incorporate this concept with a sound understanding of the physiology and pathophysiology of somatic tissues.
Systematic assessment of a body’s physical restrictions. These restrictions are prioritized and released in a specific sequence dealing with the greatest restriction first. This area may be distant to the patient’s area of chief complaint. This total body approach is based on the principle that dominant areas of restrictions may cause excessive stresses on other areas of the body. These compensatory stresses are usually the areas that bring the patient in seeking relief of pain in that area. The success of this approach lies in the ability of the physical therapist to identify the patient’s chief restrictions
Muscle Energy Technique
Muscle Energy Technique is a direct technique originally developed by Fred Mitchel, Sr., DO. The purpose of this technique is to treat joint hypomobility (stiffness) and restore proper biomechanical and physiological function to the joint(s). Since it is an approach that is based on Somatic Dysfunction, the patient undergoes a whole body screening evaluation for joint hypomobility. The results are prioritized to find the most dominant dysfunction/restriction. The dominant segmental is then specifically localized using the motion barrier concept. Different patient positions are utilized to engage the restriction before asking the patient to perform an isometric contraction to pull the restricted segment into a new motion barrier. The isometric contraction is performed in a precisely controlled direction against a precisely controlled counterforce by the therapist. The result is improved spinal mobility without the need for passive manipulation. Muscle Energy Technique is effective for mobilizing restricted joints, relaxing hypertonic and spastic muscles as well as facilitating neuromuscular reorganization. It is an appropriate technique for patients whose symptoms are aggravated by certain postures or bodily positions. Each treatment session begins and ends with a screening technique to assess the outcome of the manual techniques. This can be rewarding for the patient as the experience changes in mobility with concomitant reduction in pain.
Positional Release Therapy
Positional Release Therapy is a manual technique that restores a muscle to its normal resting tone. Assessment of trigger points allows identification of hypertonic muscles that are creating somatic dysfunction. Patients are placed in positions that approximate the origin and insertion of the hypertonic muscle. In doing so the muscle spindle activation is inhibited thereby decreasing the amount of afferent impulses to the brain. This leads to less efferent impulses to the same muscle. These efferent impulses were attempting to protect the tissue from being over stretched. By interrupting this pathway, the patient’s muscle is allowed to relax and assume a normal resting tone. The process is completed by slowly and passively returning the patient to an anatomical neutral position without firing of the muscle spindle. The patient is then instructed in appropriate home stretching for the affected area to complete this integrated therapeutic approach.
Myofascial Release Technique
When attempting to understand what fascia is like in our bodies, the best analogy is to think about slicing a grapefruit in half. After removing the fruit from the rind, it is easy to see all of the individual compartments that are left. These translucent walls give shape and definition to the object. Fascia in our bodies acts very similar to these compartment walls. The function of fascia is to support and protect the following structures in our body: blood vessels, bones, muscles, organs and nerves. Fascia is one continuous layer of connective tissue spreading from head to toe, but in three dimensions. It is closely integrated with all structures in our body, all the way down to a cellular level. As we age we accumulate compounding stresses to our fascial system. Fascial restrictions from poor posture or habitual motions, not to mention traumatic events, can slowly influence the structural mobility of our body and pull us out of alignment. These stresses can create pain and dysfunction.Physical therapists trained in Myofascial release technique can reduce these restrictions by applying gentle pressure and mobilizing the tissues to reduce the viscosity of the ground substance between two fascia layers
Somatic Dysfunction
A functional model of musculoskeletal disorders states that biomechanical disturbances are a manifestation of the intrinsic properties of the tissues affected. The body’s ability to adapt to physiological stresses is demonstrated as loss of joint mobility, loss of tissue resiliency and gross changes in motion or postural symmetry. These physiological adaptations are collectively described as Somatic Dysfunction. Tissue restrictions in one area of the body can have a profound impact on other areas of the body. Effective musculoskeletal therapy should incorporate this concept with a sound understanding of the physiology and pathophysiology of somatic tissues.
LIGAMENT SCLEROTHERAPY
David E. Teitelbaum D.O.
Ligament Sclerotherapy, also known as Ligament Reconstructive Therapy and Prolotherapy, is a technique of strengthening ligaments naturally. Ligaments are structures that connect bones to each other and provide support for all of the joints of the body, including the spine. Ligaments may stretch and become lax from injury or from wear and tear over time. When this occurs the joint becomes unstable and painful. Rehabilitation and manipulation attempts often fail to provide lasting relief because such attempts cannot strengthen ligaments.
Fortunately, these ligaments can be strengthened through Sclerotherapy. In this approach the effected ligaments are injected with natural substances to deliberately cause inflammation. The ligament responds by laying down collagen tissue which develops over several weeks into mature ligament. The result is a thickened, strengthened ligament and a more stable joint. This is very different from injecting cortisone which lessens inflammation but can actually weaken the ligaments. For most joints of the body, a series of five to twelve injections are necessary to achieve the desired effect.
A diagnosis of ligament laxity is made by taking a complete history combined with physical examination and review of X-rays of the effected area. The classical history would include joint or spine pain of several month's duration where efforts such as physical therapy or manipulation have not provided lasting relief. Limited range of motion is often present. The pain may be the result of an acute injury or it can develop over time from wear and tear. Physical examination reveals very tender focal areas over the painful site. X-rays do not show the ligaments themselves, but are often necessary to rule out other sources of pain or limited range of motion.
Once the diagnosis is made, the effected area is injected with the following substances:
Lidocaine, a local anesthetic to lessen discomfort
Vitamin B 12, to help nourish the developing tissue.
Concentrated Dextrose, a corn sugar, to cause inflammation that leads to collagen deposition.
Sodium Morrhuate, a derivative of Cod liver oil, used to further facilitate the inflammatory process.
Significant improvement is usually noted after the third treatment, although each person will have their own unique response.
There is a Board Certification available for Sclerotherapy offered by the American College of Osteopathic Pain Management and Sclerotherapy. Dr. Teitelbaum received his board certification in 1996.
Ligament Sclerotherapy, also known as Ligament Reconstructive Therapy and Prolotherapy, is a technique of strengthening ligaments naturally. Ligaments are structures that connect bones to each other and provide support for all of the joints of the body, including the spine. Ligaments may stretch and become lax from injury or from wear and tear over time. When this occurs the joint becomes unstable and painful. Rehabilitation and manipulation attempts often fail to provide lasting relief because such attempts cannot strengthen ligaments.
Fortunately, these ligaments can be strengthened through Sclerotherapy. In this approach the effected ligaments are injected with natural substances to deliberately cause inflammation. The ligament responds by laying down collagen tissue which develops over several weeks into mature ligament. The result is a thickened, strengthened ligament and a more stable joint. This is very different from injecting cortisone which lessens inflammation but can actually weaken the ligaments. For most joints of the body, a series of five to twelve injections are necessary to achieve the desired effect.
A diagnosis of ligament laxity is made by taking a complete history combined with physical examination and review of X-rays of the effected area. The classical history would include joint or spine pain of several month's duration where efforts such as physical therapy or manipulation have not provided lasting relief. Limited range of motion is often present. The pain may be the result of an acute injury or it can develop over time from wear and tear. Physical examination reveals very tender focal areas over the painful site. X-rays do not show the ligaments themselves, but are often necessary to rule out other sources of pain or limited range of motion.
Once the diagnosis is made, the effected area is injected with the following substances:
Lidocaine, a local anesthetic to lessen discomfort
Vitamin B 12, to help nourish the developing tissue.
Concentrated Dextrose, a corn sugar, to cause inflammation that leads to collagen deposition.
Sodium Morrhuate, a derivative of Cod liver oil, used to further facilitate the inflammatory process.
Significant improvement is usually noted after the third treatment, although each person will have their own unique response.
There is a Board Certification available for Sclerotherapy offered by the American College of Osteopathic Pain Management and Sclerotherapy. Dr. Teitelbaum received his board certification in 1996.
PROLOTHERAPY AFTER BACK SURGERY
Ross Hauser, M.D.
Many people only become aware of Prolotherapy after they have undergone a surgical procedure for back pain. Although the pain may not be as severe as it was before the surgery, most people continue to experience significant back pain after surgery. Why? Because the back surgery involved removing supporting structures, such as a lamina, facet, or disc, thus weakening surrounding segments.
Prolotherapy injections to the weakened segments in the lumbar vertebrae often result in definitive pain relief in post-surgery pain syndromes. Back pain is commonly due to several factors and surgery may have eliminated only one. It is possible, for example, to have back pain from a lumbar herniated disc and a sacroiliac joint problem. Surgery may address the herniated disc problem but not the sacroiliac problem. In this example, Prolotherapy injections to the sacroiliac joint would cure the chronic pain problem.
Unfortunately, it is common for a person to have lumbar spine surgery for a sciatica complaint diagnosed from an abnormality” on an MRI scan. The sciatica” complaint was a simple ligament problem in the sacroiliac joint and the MRI scan finding was not clinically relevant—it had nothing to do with the pain problem. For the majority of people who experience pain radiating down the leg, even in cases where numbness is present, the cause of the problem is not a pinched nerve but sacroiliac ligament weakness.
Ligament laxity in the sacroiliac joint is the number one reason for "sciatica,” or pain radiating down the side of the leg, and is one of the most common reasons for chronic low back pain. This can easily be confirmed by stretching these ligaments and producing a positive "jump sign.” Ligament weakness can cause leg numbness. Most people sense pain when they have ligament weakness, but some people experience a sensation of numbness. Doctors typically believe nerve injury is the only reason for numbness, a reason so many people believe they have a sciatic nerve problem. In reality, it is a sacroiliac ligament problem. The referral patterns of the sciatic nerve and the sacroiliac ligaments are similar. In this scenario, it is unfortunate that thousands of dollars were spent on surgery and post-operative care. Had Prolotherapy treatments been performed on the pain-producing structure, this could have been avoided.
Many people only become aware of Prolotherapy after they have undergone a surgical procedure for back pain. Although the pain may not be as severe as it was before the surgery, most people continue to experience significant back pain after surgery. Why? Because the back surgery involved removing supporting structures, such as a lamina, facet, or disc, thus weakening surrounding segments.
Prolotherapy injections to the weakened segments in the lumbar vertebrae often result in definitive pain relief in post-surgery pain syndromes. Back pain is commonly due to several factors and surgery may have eliminated only one. It is possible, for example, to have back pain from a lumbar herniated disc and a sacroiliac joint problem. Surgery may address the herniated disc problem but not the sacroiliac problem. In this example, Prolotherapy injections to the sacroiliac joint would cure the chronic pain problem.
Unfortunately, it is common for a person to have lumbar spine surgery for a sciatica complaint diagnosed from an abnormality” on an MRI scan. The sciatica” complaint was a simple ligament problem in the sacroiliac joint and the MRI scan finding was not clinically relevant—it had nothing to do with the pain problem. For the majority of people who experience pain radiating down the leg, even in cases where numbness is present, the cause of the problem is not a pinched nerve but sacroiliac ligament weakness.
Ligament laxity in the sacroiliac joint is the number one reason for "sciatica,” or pain radiating down the side of the leg, and is one of the most common reasons for chronic low back pain. This can easily be confirmed by stretching these ligaments and producing a positive "jump sign.” Ligament weakness can cause leg numbness. Most people sense pain when they have ligament weakness, but some people experience a sensation of numbness. Doctors typically believe nerve injury is the only reason for numbness, a reason so many people believe they have a sciatic nerve problem. In reality, it is a sacroiliac ligament problem. The referral patterns of the sciatic nerve and the sacroiliac ligaments are similar. In this scenario, it is unfortunate that thousands of dollars were spent on surgery and post-operative care. Had Prolotherapy treatments been performed on the pain-producing structure, this could have been avoided.
Saturday, March 04, 2006
Myofascial Release
Myofascial Release is a highly specialized stretching technique used by physical therapists to treat patients with a variety of soft tissue problems.
To understand what Myofascial Release is and why it works, you have to understand a little about fascia. Fascia is a thin tissue that covers all the organs of the body. This tissue covers every muscle and every fiber within each muscle. All muscle stretching, then, is actually stretching of the fascia and the muscle, the myofascial unit. When muscle fibers are injured, the fibers and the fascia which surrounds it become short and tight. This uneven stress can be transmitted through the fascia to other parts of the body, causing pain and a variety of other symptoms in areas you often wouldn't expect. Myofascial Release treats these symptoms by releasing the uneven tightness in injured fascia.
Myofascial Release works by the stretching of the fascia. The stretch is guided by feedback the therapist feels from the patient's body. This feedback tells the therapist how much force to use, the direction of the stretch and how long to stretch. Small areas of muscle are stretched at a time. Sometimes the therapist uses only two fingers to stretch a small part of a muscle. The feedback the therapist feels determines which muscles are stretched and in what order.
Each Myofascial Release technique contains the same components. The physical therapist finds the area of tightness. A light stretch is applied to the tight area. The physical therapist waits for the tissue to relax and then increases the stretch. The process is repeated until the area is fully relaxed. Then, the next area is stretched.
The therapist will be able to find sore spots just by feel. Often, patients are unable to pinpoint some sore spots or have grown used to them until the physical therapist finds them. The size and sensitivity of these sore spots, called Myofascial Trigger Points, will decrease with treatment.
Most patients are surprised by how gentle Myofascial Release is. Some patients fall asleep during treatment. Others later go home and take a nap. Most patients find Myofascial Release to be a very relaxing form of treatment.
Myofascial Release is not massage. Myofascial Release is used to equalize muscle tension throughout the body. Unequal muscle tension can compress nerves and muscles causing pain. Progress is measured by a decrease in the patient's pain and by an improvement in overall posture.
To understand what Myofascial Release is and why it works, you have to understand a little about fascia. Fascia is a thin tissue that covers all the organs of the body. This tissue covers every muscle and every fiber within each muscle. All muscle stretching, then, is actually stretching of the fascia and the muscle, the myofascial unit. When muscle fibers are injured, the fibers and the fascia which surrounds it become short and tight. This uneven stress can be transmitted through the fascia to other parts of the body, causing pain and a variety of other symptoms in areas you often wouldn't expect. Myofascial Release treats these symptoms by releasing the uneven tightness in injured fascia.
Myofascial Release works by the stretching of the fascia. The stretch is guided by feedback the therapist feels from the patient's body. This feedback tells the therapist how much force to use, the direction of the stretch and how long to stretch. Small areas of muscle are stretched at a time. Sometimes the therapist uses only two fingers to stretch a small part of a muscle. The feedback the therapist feels determines which muscles are stretched and in what order.
Each Myofascial Release technique contains the same components. The physical therapist finds the area of tightness. A light stretch is applied to the tight area. The physical therapist waits for the tissue to relax and then increases the stretch. The process is repeated until the area is fully relaxed. Then, the next area is stretched.
The therapist will be able to find sore spots just by feel. Often, patients are unable to pinpoint some sore spots or have grown used to them until the physical therapist finds them. The size and sensitivity of these sore spots, called Myofascial Trigger Points, will decrease with treatment.
Most patients are surprised by how gentle Myofascial Release is. Some patients fall asleep during treatment. Others later go home and take a nap. Most patients find Myofascial Release to be a very relaxing form of treatment.
Myofascial Release is not massage. Myofascial Release is used to equalize muscle tension throughout the body. Unequal muscle tension can compress nerves and muscles causing pain. Progress is measured by a decrease in the patient's pain and by an improvement in overall posture.
Myofascial pain syndrome
When the muscles of the back become injured from prolonged irritation, they can develop a reactive inflammation called myofascitis. Myofascial pain syndrome refers to a condition where the myofascitis occurs on a constant basis and becomes chronic over a long period of time.
Muscles of the back may be injured initially through traumatic tearing of the fibers, repetitive strain, and through pre-existing conditions which cause the muscles to be weakened and inflamed without provocation. Fibromyalgia is one such condition in which multiple muscles of the body are in a constant irritated state, and demonstrate myofascial pain syndrome. While traumatic injuries are easily identified, repetitive strains can be more difficult to ascertain. These strains can begin with a repetitive movement where the muscles are being irritated over a long period of time until they become vulnerable to tearing from a simple change in the position of the back. For example, a person who has improper posture at a computer on a regular basis, or a golfer who plays frequently with bad form may have their muscles tighten over time and form micro-tearing and inflammation as a result. Approximately 5 days after an injury, scar tissue will then form to act like glue to bond the tissue back together. Scar tissue will continue to form past six weeks in some cases and as long as a year in severe back strains. In cases where the repetitive irritation is not halted, or if the area does not heal properly and the scar tissue does not break down, myofascial irritation will persist.
The initial approach to treating myofascial pain syndrome is to support and protect the muscles, help them to loosen up and lessen the pain and minimize any inflammation. Due to the stiffness which accompanies scar tissue, it will be important to perform procedures which help break down the scaring in the muscle, so as to let the muscle regain its normal flexibility and lessen the chance of further injury.
While exercise is appropriate for breaking down scar tissue once the area has healed, it may further irritate the area during the initial stages of a re-irritated myofascial pain syndrome. Therefore, other methods such as Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment or OMT may be safely used to accomplish this early on in the injury. Each Myofascial Pain Syndrome condition is different, always consult your osteopathic doctor to determine what treatment is right for your particular situation.
Muscles of the back may be injured initially through traumatic tearing of the fibers, repetitive strain, and through pre-existing conditions which cause the muscles to be weakened and inflamed without provocation. Fibromyalgia is one such condition in which multiple muscles of the body are in a constant irritated state, and demonstrate myofascial pain syndrome. While traumatic injuries are easily identified, repetitive strains can be more difficult to ascertain. These strains can begin with a repetitive movement where the muscles are being irritated over a long period of time until they become vulnerable to tearing from a simple change in the position of the back. For example, a person who has improper posture at a computer on a regular basis, or a golfer who plays frequently with bad form may have their muscles tighten over time and form micro-tearing and inflammation as a result. Approximately 5 days after an injury, scar tissue will then form to act like glue to bond the tissue back together. Scar tissue will continue to form past six weeks in some cases and as long as a year in severe back strains. In cases where the repetitive irritation is not halted, or if the area does not heal properly and the scar tissue does not break down, myofascial irritation will persist.
The initial approach to treating myofascial pain syndrome is to support and protect the muscles, help them to loosen up and lessen the pain and minimize any inflammation. Due to the stiffness which accompanies scar tissue, it will be important to perform procedures which help break down the scaring in the muscle, so as to let the muscle regain its normal flexibility and lessen the chance of further injury.
While exercise is appropriate for breaking down scar tissue once the area has healed, it may further irritate the area during the initial stages of a re-irritated myofascial pain syndrome. Therefore, other methods such as Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment or OMT may be safely used to accomplish this early on in the injury. Each Myofascial Pain Syndrome condition is different, always consult your osteopathic doctor to determine what treatment is right for your particular situation.
Lymphatic Technique
This technique promotes circulation of the lymphatic fluids and is used to relieve upper and lower respiratory infections. The physician applies pressure to a prone patient's upper anterior chest wall. When the applied force reaches a peak as the patient exhales, the physician quickly removes his/her hands. This helps the body's respiratory system move the lymphatic fluids.
DOs are complete physicians
D.O.s are "complete" physicians; they can prescribe medication, perform surgery, and are found in all branches of medicine. D.O.s have similar academic training, internship, residency, and licensing requirements as M.D.s. Thus, a D.O. designation simply means that a physician has additional education in osteopathic medicine, and is not practicing a "different" kind of medicine.
Conditions Treated using Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT)
Source: http://drtortu.com/Description%20of%20Techniques.htm
Head
Concussion
Crossed Eyes
Ear, Nose & Throat Problems
Headache
Head Trauma
Malocclusion
Migraine
Orthodontic Problems Post Concussion Syndrome Seizures
Sinusitis
Tinnitis (Ringing in Ears)
TMJ Syndrome
Trigeminal Neuralgia
Vertigo
Back & Chest
Back Pain
Fibromyalgia
Neck Pain
Non-Cardiac Chest Pain
Orthopedic Problems Scoliosis
Sciatic Pain
Extremities
Arm & Hand Pain
Arthritis
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Edema (Swelling)
Foot, Ankle & Leg Pain
Golf/Tennis Elbow
Joint Pain
Rotator Cuff Syndrome
Shoulder Pain
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Organs
Abdominal Pain
Constipation
Digestive Problems
Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease
Genitourinary Problems
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Prevention of Pregnancy-Related Back Pain
Infants & Children
ADD/ADHD
Allergies
Asthma
Behavior Problems
Birth Trauma
Bronchitis
Cerebral Palsy
Colic
Developmental Delay
Down Syndrome
Ear Infections
Frequent Colds
Generalized Body Ache/Pain
Head Trauma
Learning Disorders
Neurologic Syndromes
Odd-Shaped Head
Recurrent Sore Throats
Seizures
Sucking Difficulty
Vomiting
Sports Injuries
Back Spasm
Concussion
Groin Pain
Muscle Pull (Strain/Sprain)
Overuse Injuries
Trauma
Osteopathic Manipulative Techniques
The spectrum of osteopathic manipulation techniques focus on the principle that body structure and function are dependent on one another. When structure is altered via the musculoskeletal system, abnormalities occur in other body systems. This, in turn, can produce restriction of motion, tenderness, tissue changes and asymmetry (somatic dysfunction). Following are some of the manipulation procedures most commonly used by osteopathic physicians to diagnose and treat somatic dysfunctions:
Hands-On Contact
Health professionals universally acknowledge the value of the placing of hands on a patient. This essential component of the doctor-patient relationship has a great deal to do with the patient’s well being, whether he or she suffers from a cold or a terminal disease. When a DO examines a patient by auscultation of the chest or palpation of the abdomen or spine, the treatment already has begun.
Soft-Tissue Technique
This procedure is commonly applied to the musculature surrounding the spine, and consists of a rhythmic stretching, deep pressure and traction. Its purpose is to move excess tissue fluids (edema) and to relax hypertonic muscles and myofascial (fibrous tissue) layers associated with somatic dysfunction.
Myofascial Release
This procedure is designed to treat primarily the myofascial structures. In the use of direct myofascial release treatment (MRT), a restrictive barrier is engaged for the myofascial tissues; the tissue is loaded with a constant force until release occurs. In treating with indirect MRT, the dysfunctional tissues are guided along a path of least resistance until free movement is achieved.
Cranial Osteopathy
This is a specific approach within the osteopathic concept. It influences the structure and fluid surrounding the central nervous system, creating an impact on the total body and initiating the body’s inherent capacity to heal itself. Fascial connections throughout the body are contiguous with the linings around the central nervous system, including the dura and other structures. Practitioners of cranial osteopathy utilize a manual approach to accomplish these goals within the practice of osteopathic medicine.
Lymphatic Technique
This manual procedure is designed to promote circulation of the lymphatic fluids and can be used to treat various difficulties. One technique is pressure applied with the physician’s hands on the supine patient’s upper chest wall. When the force that is applied to the chest reaches its maximum on expiration, the physician’s hands are removed suddenly. This increases negative pressure of the chest to assist the body’s respiratory mechanism to move lymphatic fluids.
Thrust Technique (HVLA)
In this form of manipulation, the physician applies a high-velocity/low-amplitude thrust to restore specific joint motion. With such a technique, the joint regains its normal range of motion and resets neural reflexes. The procedure reduces and/or completely nullifies the physical signs of somatic dysfunction: tissue changes, asymmetry, restriction of motion and tenderness.
Muscle Energy Technique
In this manual technique, the patient is directed to use his or her muscles from a precise position and in a specific direction against Counterforce applied by the physician. The purpose is to restore motion, decrease muscle/tissue changes and modify asymmetry of somatic dysfunction.
Strain/Counterstrain
This is a manual procedure in which the patient is moved passively away from the restricted motion barrier, towards the position of greatest comfort. At this point, passive, asymptomatic strain is induced.
Visceral Osteopathy
In this manual technique, the position of the organs of the body is determined by development and embryology. There is a specific freedom of motion to each organ. Restriction of this motion can cause disability of organ function as well as cause tissue changes at certain spinal levels (somato-visceral reflexes). These tissue changes can be used to diagnose visceral (organ) dysfunction. Treatment of visceral dysfunction can restore normal function of the organ system.
Head
Concussion
Crossed Eyes
Ear, Nose & Throat Problems
Headache
Head Trauma
Malocclusion
Migraine
Orthodontic Problems Post Concussion Syndrome Seizures
Sinusitis
Tinnitis (Ringing in Ears)
TMJ Syndrome
Trigeminal Neuralgia
Vertigo
Back & Chest
Back Pain
Fibromyalgia
Neck Pain
Non-Cardiac Chest Pain
Orthopedic Problems Scoliosis
Sciatic Pain
Extremities
Arm & Hand Pain
Arthritis
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Edema (Swelling)
Foot, Ankle & Leg Pain
Golf/Tennis Elbow
Joint Pain
Rotator Cuff Syndrome
Shoulder Pain
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Organs
Abdominal Pain
Constipation
Digestive Problems
Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease
Genitourinary Problems
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Prevention of Pregnancy-Related Back Pain
Infants & Children
ADD/ADHD
Allergies
Asthma
Behavior Problems
Birth Trauma
Bronchitis
Cerebral Palsy
Colic
Developmental Delay
Down Syndrome
Ear Infections
Frequent Colds
Generalized Body Ache/Pain
Head Trauma
Learning Disorders
Neurologic Syndromes
Odd-Shaped Head
Recurrent Sore Throats
Seizures
Sucking Difficulty
Vomiting
Sports Injuries
Back Spasm
Concussion
Groin Pain
Muscle Pull (Strain/Sprain)
Overuse Injuries
Trauma
Osteopathic Manipulative Techniques
The spectrum of osteopathic manipulation techniques focus on the principle that body structure and function are dependent on one another. When structure is altered via the musculoskeletal system, abnormalities occur in other body systems. This, in turn, can produce restriction of motion, tenderness, tissue changes and asymmetry (somatic dysfunction). Following are some of the manipulation procedures most commonly used by osteopathic physicians to diagnose and treat somatic dysfunctions:
Hands-On Contact
Health professionals universally acknowledge the value of the placing of hands on a patient. This essential component of the doctor-patient relationship has a great deal to do with the patient’s well being, whether he or she suffers from a cold or a terminal disease. When a DO examines a patient by auscultation of the chest or palpation of the abdomen or spine, the treatment already has begun.
Soft-Tissue Technique
This procedure is commonly applied to the musculature surrounding the spine, and consists of a rhythmic stretching, deep pressure and traction. Its purpose is to move excess tissue fluids (edema) and to relax hypertonic muscles and myofascial (fibrous tissue) layers associated with somatic dysfunction.
Myofascial Release
This procedure is designed to treat primarily the myofascial structures. In the use of direct myofascial release treatment (MRT), a restrictive barrier is engaged for the myofascial tissues; the tissue is loaded with a constant force until release occurs. In treating with indirect MRT, the dysfunctional tissues are guided along a path of least resistance until free movement is achieved.
Cranial Osteopathy
This is a specific approach within the osteopathic concept. It influences the structure and fluid surrounding the central nervous system, creating an impact on the total body and initiating the body’s inherent capacity to heal itself. Fascial connections throughout the body are contiguous with the linings around the central nervous system, including the dura and other structures. Practitioners of cranial osteopathy utilize a manual approach to accomplish these goals within the practice of osteopathic medicine.
Lymphatic Technique
This manual procedure is designed to promote circulation of the lymphatic fluids and can be used to treat various difficulties. One technique is pressure applied with the physician’s hands on the supine patient’s upper chest wall. When the force that is applied to the chest reaches its maximum on expiration, the physician’s hands are removed suddenly. This increases negative pressure of the chest to assist the body’s respiratory mechanism to move lymphatic fluids.
Thrust Technique (HVLA)
In this form of manipulation, the physician applies a high-velocity/low-amplitude thrust to restore specific joint motion. With such a technique, the joint regains its normal range of motion and resets neural reflexes. The procedure reduces and/or completely nullifies the physical signs of somatic dysfunction: tissue changes, asymmetry, restriction of motion and tenderness.
Muscle Energy Technique
In this manual technique, the patient is directed to use his or her muscles from a precise position and in a specific direction against Counterforce applied by the physician. The purpose is to restore motion, decrease muscle/tissue changes and modify asymmetry of somatic dysfunction.
Strain/Counterstrain
This is a manual procedure in which the patient is moved passively away from the restricted motion barrier, towards the position of greatest comfort. At this point, passive, asymptomatic strain is induced.
Visceral Osteopathy
In this manual technique, the position of the organs of the body is determined by development and embryology. There is a specific freedom of motion to each organ. Restriction of this motion can cause disability of organ function as well as cause tissue changes at certain spinal levels (somato-visceral reflexes). These tissue changes can be used to diagnose visceral (organ) dysfunction. Treatment of visceral dysfunction can restore normal function of the organ system.
Thursday, March 02, 2006
Pregnancy and Osteopathic Medicine
Pregnancy is time when changes are numerous, but nowhere moreso than in the body. Pregnancy causes changes to your posture; the weightbearing through your low back, pelvis, hips, knees and ankles; your ligaments and your energy levels.
Osteopathic treatment throughout your pregnancy can help to ensure that the postural and weightbearing changes do not create pain nor dysfunction. It can help to ensure optimal mechanical balance of your musculo-skeletal system.
As the time of the birth approaches, Osteopathic treatment can help to ensure that you maintain good mobility of the spine, pelvis and hips, together with ensuring that your muscle tone is optimal at this all important time.
We also recommend that after the birth, you have a check up to ensure that good musculo-skeletal function has been maintained. This is a great time for both mother and baby to be treated together. See our page on the Osteopathic treatment of babies and children.
Osteopathic treatment throughout your pregnancy can help to ensure that the postural and weightbearing changes do not create pain nor dysfunction. It can help to ensure optimal mechanical balance of your musculo-skeletal system.
As the time of the birth approaches, Osteopathic treatment can help to ensure that you maintain good mobility of the spine, pelvis and hips, together with ensuring that your muscle tone is optimal at this all important time.
We also recommend that after the birth, you have a check up to ensure that good musculo-skeletal function has been maintained. This is a great time for both mother and baby to be treated together. See our page on the Osteopathic treatment of babies and children.
Osteopathic Medicine Works!
http://osteokath.com/how_it_works.htm
Osteopaths observe, assess, identify, and treat all the structures and rhythms of the body using a gentle and precise hands-on palpatory feel. This very precise palpation, called osteopathic palpation, is what helps differentiate osteopathy from other forms of manual therapy. Osteopaths spend many years developing the sensitive sense of touch needed to master osteopathic palpation.
Osteopathy works because osteopaths:
promote healthy functioning in a person by correcting mechanical imbalances within and between the structures of the body
restore, maintain, and improve the harmonious working of the arterial, nervous, visceral and musculoskeletal systems
treat the primary causes of dysfunction and not the symptoms of dysfunction (e.g. osteopaths treat the cause which may or may not be different from the areas in pain)
are trained to treat all the tissues in the body with different therapeutic techniques
use a precise palpatory feel to accurately determine the type of treatment required
Osteopaths use a variety of techniques to treat the body, including:
Structural techniques (aka osteoarticular mobilizations) – These are precise, gentle techniques used to mobilize restricted joints. Sometimes a ‘click’ can be heard. Osteopaths are trained in many different ways to mobilize joint surfaces. Thus, a structural technique does not have to be used should a patient not want it.
Soft tissue mobilization – Osteopaths are trained in functional techniques, reciprocal tension, myofascial techniques and strain/counterstrain techniques. These techniques are used to increase mobility and vitality of the body’s soft tissues (e.g. fascia, connective tissues, ligaments, tendons, organs etc…). These are very gentle, precise soft tissue techniques.
Muscle energy techniques – a form of soft tissue mobilization. Precise muscle energy techniques are used to (a) restore proper biomechanics to a joint (i.e. can be used as an alternative to structural techniques) and (b) restore proper functioning of tight, restricted muscles.
Visceral techniques – Osteopaths receive extensive training in the anatomy and treatment of the organs, including the:
Visceral techniques are used to assess, treat and mobilize the organs and their attachments. Visceral osteopathy is very important part of osteopathic training and treatment. Visceral manipulation is very effective at treating organ and musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction.
liver and gall bladder
kidneys
stomac
lungs
intestines
heart
pancreas
bladder
spleen
uterus
Cranial techniques – Osteopaths are trained to treat the cranium/head through a deep understanding of the anatomy and interrelationships of the brain, meninges and skull. Osteopaths use osteopathic palpation to listen, assess and treat the ‘cranial rhythms’. Cranial techniques are among the gentlest techniques used in osteopathy. Yet they are an extremely effective way to free up any restrictions in the skull and in its contents.
Osteopaths understand the body as a functional whole. Dysfunction in one area can have an affect on the whole system. Thus, an osteopathic treatment involves treating and integrating all the tissues of the body (from head to toe).
Osteopaths observe, assess, identify, and treat all the structures and rhythms of the body using a gentle and precise hands-on palpatory feel. This very precise palpation, called osteopathic palpation, is what helps differentiate osteopathy from other forms of manual therapy. Osteopaths spend many years developing the sensitive sense of touch needed to master osteopathic palpation.
Osteopathy works because osteopaths:
promote healthy functioning in a person by correcting mechanical imbalances within and between the structures of the body
restore, maintain, and improve the harmonious working of the arterial, nervous, visceral and musculoskeletal systems
treat the primary causes of dysfunction and not the symptoms of dysfunction (e.g. osteopaths treat the cause which may or may not be different from the areas in pain)
are trained to treat all the tissues in the body with different therapeutic techniques
use a precise palpatory feel to accurately determine the type of treatment required
Osteopaths use a variety of techniques to treat the body, including:
Structural techniques (aka osteoarticular mobilizations) – These are precise, gentle techniques used to mobilize restricted joints. Sometimes a ‘click’ can be heard. Osteopaths are trained in many different ways to mobilize joint surfaces. Thus, a structural technique does not have to be used should a patient not want it.
Soft tissue mobilization – Osteopaths are trained in functional techniques, reciprocal tension, myofascial techniques and strain/counterstrain techniques. These techniques are used to increase mobility and vitality of the body’s soft tissues (e.g. fascia, connective tissues, ligaments, tendons, organs etc…). These are very gentle, precise soft tissue techniques.
Muscle energy techniques – a form of soft tissue mobilization. Precise muscle energy techniques are used to (a) restore proper biomechanics to a joint (i.e. can be used as an alternative to structural techniques) and (b) restore proper functioning of tight, restricted muscles.
Visceral techniques – Osteopaths receive extensive training in the anatomy and treatment of the organs, including the:
Visceral techniques are used to assess, treat and mobilize the organs and their attachments. Visceral osteopathy is very important part of osteopathic training and treatment. Visceral manipulation is very effective at treating organ and musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction.
liver and gall bladder
kidneys
stomac
lungs
intestines
heart
pancreas
bladder
spleen
uterus
Cranial techniques – Osteopaths are trained to treat the cranium/head through a deep understanding of the anatomy and interrelationships of the brain, meninges and skull. Osteopaths use osteopathic palpation to listen, assess and treat the ‘cranial rhythms’. Cranial techniques are among the gentlest techniques used in osteopathy. Yet they are an extremely effective way to free up any restrictions in the skull and in its contents.
Osteopaths understand the body as a functional whole. Dysfunction in one area can have an affect on the whole system. Thus, an osteopathic treatment involves treating and integrating all the tissues of the body (from head to toe).
Osteopathic medicine and whole person
Osteopathic focus is on treating the whole person. Whilst osteopaths examine and treat many musculoskeletal conditions, they also consider, and may be of assistance with psychological, nutritional, exercise, and lifestyle issues.
Accumulation of stress in the body
When we experience physical or emotional stresses our body tissues tend to tighten up. The body may have been able to adapt to these effects at the time, but a lasting strain often remains. Any tensions which remain held in the body can restrict its free movement. Gradually the body may find it more and more difficult to cope with accumulated stresses and symptoms may develop.
Osteopaths focus on the whole person from structural problems to lifestyle issues...
Musculoskeletal :_ e.g
Arthritis
Back and neck pain, joint pain such as shoulder ,hip, foot, elbow, wrist, finger joints, ankle ,knee , etc.
Disc problems
Inflexibility
Jaw pain / clicking
Postural problems
Repetitive strain type injuries
Rehabilitation Exercise after injury
Sciatica
Sporting injuries
Structural changes
Respiratory
Allergies e.g. hay fever
Asthma
Womens and Baby Health
Colic, wind, sickness of the newborn / infant / child
Developmental and behavioral problems of the newborn / infant / child e.g. crying, ear infections, feeding problems
Pregnancy related aches and pains
Preconception and post-natal health
Woman's health and reproductive problems
Other
Headaches and migraines
Stress / fatigue
Sleep disorders / insomnia
Digestive problems
Remember - you don't have to be in pain to benefit from osteopathic care. Good health is about prevention
Accumulation of stress in the body
When we experience physical or emotional stresses our body tissues tend to tighten up. The body may have been able to adapt to these effects at the time, but a lasting strain often remains. Any tensions which remain held in the body can restrict its free movement. Gradually the body may find it more and more difficult to cope with accumulated stresses and symptoms may develop.
Osteopaths focus on the whole person from structural problems to lifestyle issues...
Musculoskeletal :_ e.g
Arthritis
Back and neck pain, joint pain such as shoulder ,hip, foot, elbow, wrist, finger joints, ankle ,knee , etc.
Disc problems
Inflexibility
Jaw pain / clicking
Postural problems
Repetitive strain type injuries
Rehabilitation Exercise after injury
Sciatica
Sporting injuries
Structural changes
Respiratory
Allergies e.g. hay fever
Asthma
Womens and Baby Health
Colic, wind, sickness of the newborn / infant / child
Developmental and behavioral problems of the newborn / infant / child e.g. crying, ear infections, feeding problems
Pregnancy related aches and pains
Preconception and post-natal health
Woman's health and reproductive problems
Other
Headaches and migraines
Stress / fatigue
Sleep disorders / insomnia
Digestive problems
Remember - you don't have to be in pain to benefit from osteopathic care. Good health is about prevention
Osteopathic foundation to fund programs
A new round of funding from a Columbus-based foundation will provide $1.5 million to improve health and quality-of-life conditions in Central and Southeast Ohio.
The two largest grants, totaling nearly $470,000 from the Osteopathic Heritage Foundation, are aimed at preventing homelessness, said a release from the foundation.
The Rural Homeless Initiative for Southeastern and Central Ohio will receive $367,303. The money will aid efforts to end homelessness in 17 rural Ohio counties.
In addition, the Rebuilding Lives program of the Community Shelter Board in Columbus will get $100,000. The grant will be used to evaluate and upgrade Franklin County's strategy to address homelessness in the community.
The rest of the foundation's funding will go to 18 organizations in Franklin, Licking and Knox counties. Among the uses for the money will be support for programs in the areas of hospice care, chronic disease management for the homeless, alcohol and drug treatment, mental health, assistance for the elderly and help for those with mental retardation and development disabilities.
Since 1999, the Osteopathic Heritage Foundation has approved more than $72 million to fund health and quality-of-life programs and osteopathic medical education and research.
The two largest grants, totaling nearly $470,000 from the Osteopathic Heritage Foundation, are aimed at preventing homelessness, said a release from the foundation.
The Rural Homeless Initiative for Southeastern and Central Ohio will receive $367,303. The money will aid efforts to end homelessness in 17 rural Ohio counties.
In addition, the Rebuilding Lives program of the Community Shelter Board in Columbus will get $100,000. The grant will be used to evaluate and upgrade Franklin County's strategy to address homelessness in the community.
The rest of the foundation's funding will go to 18 organizations in Franklin, Licking and Knox counties. Among the uses for the money will be support for programs in the areas of hospice care, chronic disease management for the homeless, alcohol and drug treatment, mental health, assistance for the elderly and help for those with mental retardation and development disabilities.
Since 1999, the Osteopathic Heritage Foundation has approved more than $72 million to fund health and quality-of-life programs and osteopathic medical education and research.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)