As the saying goes, “Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional.”
September is Pain Awareness Month, a great time to acknowledge and talk about pain.
In a 2022 survey, we found two in three (65%) Australians aged over 45 rely on medication to manage their pain, with most people either trying to deal with it on their own, or not dealing with it at all. This included 82% of people with sciatica, 78% of people with arthritis and 80% of people with postural or ergonomic problems.
How can osteopathic techniques help to manage pain?
Osteopathy focuses on the whole body to promote healing, improve the body’s mobility, circulation and wellbeing.
Using a combination of traditional and modern healthcare philosophies, osteopaths generally use non-invasive forms of therapy like muscle soft-tissue work, joint mobilisation or manipulation, stretching and exercises, combined with education and advice to support the body’s natural healing processes.
As university trained, government registered healthcare professionals, osteopaths take the time to understand your history, your lifestyle and your body so they can provide you with a personalised plan to get you as healthy as you can be with hands-on treatment, advice and management plans that help you reduce pain for the long term and enjoy life.
These holistic hands-on approaches to your health include:
Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT)
Involves hands-on techniques such as stretching, gentle pressure, and resistance to diagnose, treat and prevent further damage by improving joint mobility, reducing muscle tension, and enhancing circulation. This approach is backed by research which suggests that OMT can significantly reduce pain in musculoskeletal disorders such as back pain, osteoarthritis and migraines.
Soft Tissue Manipulation
Soft tissue techniques, including myofascial release and trigger point therapy, focus on addressing muscular imbalances and restrictions. By releasing tension in the fascia and muscles, these techniques can ease pain and enhance flexibility.
Exercise Prescription
Tailored exercise regimens can improve strength, flexibility and posture. These exercises aim to promote healing, prevent recurrence and empower individuals to take an active role in their pain management journey.
Nutritional Guidance
Nutrition can play a crucial role in supporting the body’s healing processes. Osteopaths often provide nutritional guidance to reduce inflammation and promote tissue repair. Incorporating nutrient-rich foods and avoiding inflammation triggers may contribute to pain relief.
Pain Awareness month serves as a reminder that chronic pain affects millions, but there are holistic approaches for effective management.
It’s important to recognise the individuality of pain experiences;
Osteopathy provides a comprehensive toolkit for addressing pain from various angles, empowering individuals to regain control over their lives and embrace a pain-free future.
Our Osteopath Dr. Anne-Marie Noble is available every Monday, Wednesday & Thursday at BodyActive Health from 12pm – 7pm.
You can contact her directly on 0417 509 120 or at the clinic on 9427 8848.
Alternatively, you can book online using the form from the link below:
Article originally published at www.osteopathy.org.au August 9, 2023.