What is the role of an Osteopath in the context of neuro-rehab?
Osteopathy involves a manipulative medicine of stretching, massaging and moving of the musculoskeletal systems carried out by an osteopathic doctor, with the overall aim of improving an individual’s health by treating the whole body (Joy 2020). Osteopathy is a distinct form of treatment and can be differentiated from others, like chiropractor and physiotherapy, as it takes an increasingly holistic approach and does not just focus of the muscular and spinal system, but the whole body in order to discover the causes of the patients' issues (Dorridge). Osteopaths work on the basis that optimal body function is only achievable on the basis of optimal musculoskeletal structure (looking at the skeleton, muscles, ligament sand connective tissues) to restore a person's structure and overall wellbeing. This preventive and supportive treatment is effective for the following issues: arthritic pains, joint pains, tennis elbow, general aches, back pain, muscle spasms, frozen shoulder and more (Mediratta). Similarly, neurorehabilitation aims to improve someone’s quality of life, by increasing function and decreasing debilitating symptoms, using rehabilitating treatments on the areas of the body affected by the neurological condition (Cedars Sinai). Neurological conditions that osteopathy often supports include strokes, multiple sclerosis (MS), traumatic brain injury (TBI), Parkinson's disease, spinal cord injury. All of these conditions affect movement, posture and pain management, which are all areas that osteopathy aims to improve and address. Osteopaths within neurorehabilitation look to restore movement, reduce pain and enhance bodily functions through hands on techniques and approaches.
Realigning Recovery: The Core Goals of Osteopathy in Neuro-Rehab
The main goals of this treatment, specifically when concerned with neurorehabilitation, is to improve motor symptoms, fatigue, stiffness and chronic pain (Bonanno & Calabro 2023). The holistic approaches employed by professionals on this hands-on method allow for improved joint ability, better alignment and enhanced nervous system functions. These core goals help individuals regain ease of movement and comfort due to issues raised by neurological conditions, which ultimately aims to increase their quality of life and independence in performing daily activities.
Hands-On Healing: Techniques Used by Osteopaths in Neurorehabilitation
Osteopathic manipulative treatment uses 40 different techniques to diagnose and treat certain conditions, looking for the cause of tightness and restriction of nerves and muscles and using their hands to move joints and tissues to correct restrictions in motion. For example, the technique of soft tissue manipulation; where the professional will relax tight muscles and increase blood flow by stretching and putting pressure on your muscles. Osteopaths also use a technique called myofascial release, which aims to relieve any tension in connective tissue by the professional using firm but gentle pressure to release tension in the fascia (the connective tissue surrounding your bones, muscles and organs) to enhance mobility. To improve your range of motion and flexibility, professionals can use joint mobilization and muscle energy to move muscles in a specific direction in a push- pull technique. Osteopathic cranial manipulative medicine is also a core approach to healing individuals which targets the head and spine for nervous system support by applying soft pressure to your skull to stimulate healing (Whitbourne 2024).
The Science of Touch: How Osteopathy Supports the Nervous System
Osteopathy has various positive impacts on the nervous system by mechanisms such as improved circulation, through manipulative hand methods, professionals can enhance blood flow and remove waste products or inflammatory substances which may have been affecting someone's nervous systems’ functions. Osteopaths can also identify areas of tensions, restriction or compression in the musculoskeletal system and by releasing this they can alleviate pressure on nerves. Pain management is also key in supporting the nervous system as it can cause impingement on nerves, causing more pain and discomfort, and osteopathy treatments can manage and alleviate this. The nervous system also benefits from improved posture and alignment by reducing the strain on nerves and allowing the nervous system to transmit signals efficiently (Hoskins 2023). All hands- on techniques by osteopaths encourage relaxation and stimulate the body’s natural healing process, effectively reducing pain signals and acting as support for the nervous system within neurorehabilitation.
Is Osteopathy Right for You? Taking the First Step Toward Neuro-Rehab
This individualized and holistic approach of this treatment, with tailored plans based on the patient's specific neurological condition, mobility and pain management needs is widely beneficial for individuals seeking help in these areas. Osteopaths consider the whole body alongside the condition of their patient, creating the best approach for them possible with personal goals and rigorous treatment plan. It is important to explore and think whether this treatment can benefit you or someone you know overcome these physical and mental obstacles during their neurorehabilitation journey.
References
Bonanno, M., & Calabro, R, S. (2023). BACK TO THE FUTURE: AN APPRAISAL OF THE ROLE OF OSTEOPATHIC MANIPULATIVE TREATMENT IN PATIENTS WITH NEUROLOGICAL DISEASES. Innov. Clin Neurosci. 2023;20(7–9):8–10.
Cedars Sinai. (N/A) Neurological Rehabilitation. https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/n/neurological-rehabilitation.html
Dorridge. (N/A). Chiropractors, Osteopaths or Physiotherapists. Common Conditions and Treatments. Chiropractic Clinic. https://www.dorridgechiropractic.co.uk/what-treatment-is-best-for-you#:~:text=An%20Osteopath%20is%20again%2C%20a,causes%20for%20the%20patient's%20problem.
Hoskins, Megan. (2023). The Playful Power of Osteopathy on Your Nervous System. Slow Medicine. https://www.slowmedicinecompany.com/journal/the-playful-power-of-osteopathy-on-your-nervous-system
Joy, Rebecca. (2020). What Is an Osteopath? Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/what-is-an-osteopath
Mediratta, Rakhee. (N/A). TRADITIONAL / STRUCTURAL and VISCERAL OSTEOPATHY. London Neurology & Pain Clinic. https://www.londonneurology.com/osteopathy/
Whitbourne, Kathryne. (2024). Osteopathic Medicine: Benefits, Treatment & What to Expect. What Is Osteopathic Medicine? https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/osteopathic-medicine