Osteopathy
and Seniors
In life, ageing is a
natural physiological process. One part of the body, which is greatly affected
by the process of ageing, is the musculo-skeletal system. As we get older, the
elasticity present within our body deteriorates and thus increases the chance
of injuring the soft tissues and bony structures of the body.
The
effects of ageing on the body's structure give rise to symptoms such as:
- Generalised, early morning stiffness
- Lower
back pain and stiffness
- Neck pain and arm pain
- Hip
pain
- Arthritis and joint swelling
Arthritis
can be broadly divided into two types:
- Degenerative
(osteoarthritis), and
- Inflammatory (rheumatoid)
It
is common for people 55+ to suffer the effects of osteoarthritis, namely, pain,
stiffness and restricted mobility. Osteopathic treatment can be used to relieve
these distressing symptoms.
Often when
people reach the age where they have more time on their side for recreational
activities, it can be disheartening if pain in their body's framework restricts
them from enjoying these activities.
Many
people mistakenly believe that the effect of ageing on the body's joints is untreatable
and have no alternative but to learn to live with their pain. Medications prescribed
for these symptoms such as anti-inflammatories, can often have undesirable side
effects.
Therefore, osteopathic treatment
may be very rewarding to patients if their pain can be substantially reduced using
the body's natural healing systems.
Osteopaths
often work in conjunction with medical practitioners and realise that patients
benefit from a more holistic approach to their health management.
Osteopaths
may well require X-rays or other tests to help them assess whether treatment will
be suitable.
What does Osteopathic
Treatment Involve?
Osteopathic treatment
involves a variety of manual techniques such as gentle mobilisation of the joints
(also known as articulation), soft tissue stretching, indirect release and manipulative
techniques. All of the above techniques aim to improve the quality and range of
motion in joints throughout the whole body.
Osteopathic
treatment is designed to improve blood circulation, lymphatic drainage and alleviate
disruptive influences on the nervous system.
It
is particularly suited to the treatment of aged people as these techniques are
gentle and non-invasive. Osteopaths use a wide range of techniques that can be
adapted to suit the needs of the patient and their specific conditions.
Osteopaths
may also offer you advice on exercise to help your particular condition. They
will also advise on correct posture and lifting techniques.
What
is Osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a holistic
form of treatment that uses gentle, manual techniques to diagnose and treat a
wide range of health problems.
Osteopaths
recognise that the functions of the human body are inherently linked and can affect
each other. The Osteopath gently works with the body's structure to enhance and
accelerate the natural healing process of the body.
Is
Osteopathy covered by Private Health Funds?
Yes,
Osteopathic treatment is covered under the 'extras' scheme by all major funds.
The Department of Veteran Affairs also covers osteopathic treatment by their member,
by recognised osteopathic providers that are registered with the department, however
a referral from your general practitioner is necessary.
About
Our Practice
About Osteopathy
Port
Hacking Osteopathic Clinic 