Osteopathy techniques involve a holistic approach to diagnosing, treating, and preventing a range of health issues by focusing on the musculoskeletal system. Practitioners use their hands to evaluate the body’s structure, including bones, muscles, and joints, and apply gentle manipulation to restore function, alleviate pain, and promote overall health. These techniques may include soft tissue stretching, deep pressure, joint mobilization, and even gentle “cracking” methods to encourage the body’s natural healing processes. Osteopathy aims not just to treat symptoms but to address the underlying causes by promoting body balance and improving circulation, mobility, and organ function.
While osteopathy overlaps with manual therapy, there are key differences. Manual therapy is an umbrella term that includes a wide array of hands-on techniques like massage, mobilization, and manipulation, primarily focused on improving the musculoskeletal system. Manual therapy often targets specific areas or symptoms, commonly used by physical therapists to relieve pain and enhance joint function.
In contrast, osteopathy encompasses broader health considerations and views the body as an interconnected unit. Osteopaths consider how a dysfunction in one part may affect overall health, and their approach may incorporate techniques beyond just physical manipulation, integrating posture, lifestyle, and emotional wellness into treatment plans. Both osteopathy and manual therapy play important roles, with osteopathy offering a more holistic focus and manual therapy providing symptom-focused relief.
Nooshin Alvandian is a seasoned physiotherapist with over 25 years of experience, specializing in the treatment of sports injuries, orthopedic issues, and neurological […]
