Osteopathy is a non-invasive therapy that requires manual techniques while avoiding the use of medication or any surgical procedures. The treatment is dedicated to improving overall health by manipulating and harnessing the musculoskeletal framework.
The practice of osteopathy focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of disorders relating to the musculoskeletal system. It aims to help repair body damage in a natural manner while helping patients regain their strength and prevent further issues in the future.
City Osteopathy & Physiotherapy is a provider of osteopathic massage therapy in Singapore. We have a team of osteopathic physicians who are also qualified as medical doctors and have undergone extensive training to practice osteopathy in Singapore.
In this article, we discuss further what you should expect during the treatment. But, first we discuss the difference of osteopathy from massage therapy.
Osteopathy vs Massage Therapy: What’s the Difference?
As a matter of fact, the practices share a lot of similarities with only slight differences in their approach and techniques in treatment. For instance, both professions address problems related to the muscles, joints and bones. Both treatment also uses manual techniques that focus on soft-tissue work, joint mobilisation, and manipulation. Finally, both procedures are 95% hands-on.
What to Expect in an Osteopathy
1. Initial Consultation - If you’re visiting an osteopath, the first thing you have to do is to make sure that a doctor is licensed to practice osteopathy. Only then you can be confident that you’re in safe hands.
Because osteopathy is patient-centred, you will undergo initial consultation so the doctor can devise a treatment plan according to your specific requirements. During your visit, the doctor is likely to discuss your health condition, all of which can last up to 45 minutes.
2. Physical Examination - A physical exam will then follow which may take approximately 2 hours. Here, expect to be asked to do simple stretches and exercises that will help the doctor analyse your posture and mobility. Your joints, ligaments, and tissues will also be assessed using a technique called palpation.
After that, the doctor will propose a treatment plan that may indicate the number of sessions that will be required. It may also include dietary plans, home exercise programmes as well as lifestyle changes to ensure holistic healing. While the number of treatment sessions is predetermined, it can still change depending on how you respond to the treatment.
The treatment - manipulation and hands-on work - is gentle in general but because of the physical work, you may feel sore 1-2 days after the session. Some patients report having a headache for a short while.
In terms of cost, rates for the treatment can greatly differ depending on the clinic. It is worth asking an osteopathy clinic about the costs involved prior to the treatment.
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