What is OSTEOPATHIC MANUAL THERAPY?

Osteopathic Manual therapy is the practical implementation of the principles of Osteopathy. Treatment will always consider motion restriction and asymmetries in the body, with the goal of facilitating normal movement. This means that your visit to an Osteopathic office will include a dynamic assessment of the way your body moves, followed by a treatment plan designed specifically for you.

Treatment will include joint mobilization and soft tissue treatment to remove any obstacles that interfere with the proper nutrition and drainage of your body’s tissue. It is through a deep understanding of anatomy and physiology, and with excellent palpation skills, that an osteopathic manual therapist is able to detect and treat these restrictions. It is a unique approach to manual therapy that aims to treat the cause of the symptom rather than simply reducing it temporarily.

What are the three principles of osteopathic therapy?

Osteopathy is a profession that makes extensive use of manual assessment and treatment guided by the principles set forth by its founder, Dr. Andrew Taylor Still. The three tenets that guide the practice now are:

1. The body is a dynamic unit

2. The body is self-healing

3. Structure and function are interrelated.

IS OSTEOPATHIC MANUAL THERAPY THE SAME AS CHIROPRACTIC?

There is often confusion regarding the difference between Manual Osteopaths and chiropractors. Both are healthcare providers who focus on treating musculoskeletal problems, but there are some key distinctions between the two.

Osteopaths are trained in a wider range of manual techniques than chiropractors. This means that they can offer a more comprehensive approach to treatment. In addition, osteopaths take a holistic view of health and well-being, while chiropractors focus primarily on the spine and nervous system.

Another key difference is that osteopaths use gentle manipulative techniques, while chiropractors may use more forceful methods. Osteopathic treatment is also generally longer in duration than chiropractic care.

what does aN OSTEOPATH treat?

Osteopathy is an effective form of manual therapy for:

• Chronic Pain

• Back, neck, and joint pain

• Muscle Tension

• Headaches & Migraines

• Sinus problems & Congestion

• Sports Injuries

• Digestive Issues

How often should i see my OSTEOPATH?

A treatment plan will be discussed between you and your osteopathic manual therapist at your initial appointment. Each plan differs given each patient’s unique medical history, health issue and body.

what are the benefits of seeing aN OSTEOPATH?

• Removes the underlying cause of pain

• Reduces pain and stiffness in muscles and joints

• Increases range of motions in the joints

• Treats spinal issues resulting from poor posture or other injuries

Removes Chronic Pain through non-invasive treatment

• Decreases the stress on joints

• Reduces tension in the body

• Increases joint range of motion

Treats trauma resulting from accidents (Sports injuries, Motor Vehicle injuries, etc.)

• Encourages the body to heal itself

• Increases circulation

• Removes any blockages within the body.

What to expect at your first osteopath visit:

• A full health history to go over your past medical history, surgeries, car accidents, sports injuries and any breaks/sprains/fractures

• Analysis of your posture

• Muscle testing for weakness, muscles not firing or overcompensation

• Gentle manipulation to free restriction from your joints, tight muscles, tethered nerves and blockages around your organs. This release of tension will allow healing to occur.

• Identification of any hidden factors that may underlying causes of any illness or injury have have sustained.

• Discussion of suggestion stretches and strengthening exercises to practice at home in between treatments that will aid in the healing process.

Does Osteopathy include craniosacral therapy?

Craniosacral Therapy is one of the many therapies included in Laura’s 4 years of education. She has also completed additional education in Craniosacral Therapy from the International Upledger Institute.

who benefits from OSTEOPATHIC THERAPY?

Due to the gentle nature of the treatment, manual osteopathy can benefit people of all ages!

• High-level athletes

• Adults & Seniors

• Children

• The general population to encourage health and wellness

Are OSTEOPATHIC appointments covered by insurance?

The Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) does NOT cover osteopathic services. However, osteopathic services may be covered by other government-sponsored or private supplementary health insurance companies such as Alberta Blue Cross, Canada Life, Manulife, Sun Life Financial, and many more. Although, most private health insurance companies do cover for osteopathic manual therapy only a few companies offer direct billing options.

We currently are able to offer direct billing for osteopathic manual therapy for Medavie Blue Cross, Green shield, The Co-operators, and SSQ. All patients with osteopathy coverage can submit for reimbursement of services using a paid invoice which will be issued by the clinic after each treatment.

Nova Naturopathic Clinic is located at Unit 208, 6707 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2V 0E4, and we are open for you Tuesday to Friday, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, and Saturday 9:00am-5:00pm. CALL US today at (587) 391-5753 to learn everything else we can tell you about Naturopathic Consultations and Appointments, the benefits, and how we can help you with your overall wellness. You can also CALL US to BOOK AN APPOINTMENT with us, or you can BOOK ONLINE. We hope to hear from you soon!