Classical osteopathy is used to diagnose and treat chronic and acute complaints, such as pain, pressure, organic dysfunctions and movement restrictions, at any age.
To identify and to treat the cause plays a decisive role. In this process, the osteopath includes different approaches.
This can be divided into the following areas:
Parietal osteopathy, adressing the body statics, joints, muscles and ligaments. Possible areas of treatment include tension, joint pain, back pain, scars, disc problems, scoliosis, pre- and postoperative care etc.
Visceral osteopathy, adressing the internal organs (heart, lungs, intestines, etc.), arteries and veins. Possible areas treatment are for example: menstrual cramps, premenstrual syndrome, childbearing, digestive problems such as heartburn or irritable bowel syndrome, incontinence, cystitis, fibromyalgia syndrome and asthma.
Craniosacral osteopathy, adressing nerves and structures of the brain or skull. Possible areas of treatment are: whiplash, temporomandibular joint disorders, migraine, headaches, trauma, tinitus.
Just as osteopathy is versatile, it also has its limitations. These include acute events such as a heart attack or cancer. In consultation with the treating physicians, an osteopathic concomitant treatment is possible.
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The division of osteopathy into different areas is necessary to better describe the procedure and mode of action, but I am reluctant to do so. For me, the above-mentioned areas are parts of one subject, all of which I use in every osteopathic treatment, with different foci. Or in the words of A. T. Still, the founder of osteopathy:
"We look at the body in health as meaning perfection and harmony,
not in one part, but as a whole." (Still, S.44)
Literature:
A. T. Still (1902). The Philosophy and Mechanical Principles of Osteopathy. Kansas City: Hudson-Kimberly Pcb. Co.
Photogrphy:
Rebecca Thoma