What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a form of manual therapy that emphasizes and utilizes the interrelationship between structure and function. It is a little bit like human engineering - understanding the human structure and adjusting it to its best form so that it functions properly. 

Osteopathy is grounded in a belief in the body’s ability to self-heal and self-regulate. An Osteopathic Manual Therapist is trained to treat layers of structure based on the relationship of osteopathic principles to anatomy and physiology. 

Osteopathic treatment is gentle in nature, and is suitable for all populations: newborns, babies and toddlers, school-aged children, teens, adults, and seniors.

Osteopathic treatment can be preventive, adjustive, or palliative in nature, addressing both acute and chronic conditions.

  • some clients pursue osteopathic treatment preventively. Like changing the oil in a car before it breaks down, an osteopath can keep our “inner engine” running smoothly in order to prevent future problems, or to minimize the impact of any health challenges we may encounter.

  • occasionally we “tweak” our backs when shoveling snow or working in our gardens, or we suffer from headaches due to tight neck muscles. In instances like this, osteopathic treatment can help. Adjustive treatment is rendered while the issues in question are ongoing.

  • unfortunately, occasionally we fall ill or develop a chronic ongoing condition. Some people develop chronic back pain from car accidents, while others suffer from persistent migraines due to stress or injuries. In these conditions, we may not be able to get rid of the pain permanently, but we can treat the body so that the condition is managed in the best manner possible, potentially slowing or halting the progression of the condition. It is important to talk to your osteopathic practitioner to discuss your treatment options, set goals and expectations, and understand the critical role of self care.

How Can Osteopathy Help Me?

At its core, osteopathy treats the whole person, not just their pain or health issues.  

A skilled osteopathic therapist will not only look at the affected region but will also inquire about a person's health history, lifestyle and work habits, involvement in sports and fitness as well goals as the outcomes of the visit(s). 

Osteopathy can help at the local (often painful) region which is usually what brings a person to see an osteopathic practitioner.  However often, clients report that besides the resolution of their original complaint, they feel greater overall, move better and become more aware of their bodies. 

Osteopathy has very far reaching applications helping clients with various ailments.

Happy Osteopathy Clients

  • “I didn't really understand the depths of Osteopathy until I was introduced to Agata with a severe back injury. I was extremely skeptical at first, not knowing what to expect. I could barely move with a lower back injury caused by excessive strain due to lifting. My doctor prescribed all the traditional medication to alleviate the pain, but it did not address the cure issue. Within three (3) treatments with Agata I was able to move again as she gently but methodically manipulated my back to a normal state. I am thankful to her for helping me recover so rapidly and getting back to normal. I continue to see her as needed to help me with my overall health.”

  • “I've been working with Agata for over 10 years and I credit her with helping me maintain and improve my overall health. She was the cornerstone of my recovery from 2 different surgical procedures, she has given me excellent advice about my diet and I have been able to attain an active lifestyle thanks to her involvement. I have referred Agata to neighbors, friends, and family without hesitation and she's helped them as she's helped me. Agata is professional, knowledgeable and caring and I wouldn't hesitate to talk to her about your health.”

    John Fanjoy

  • “I have been seeing Aggi for osteopathic treatment for 7 years now and I look forward to every visit! She is very knowledgeable and has a lovely energy about her. Her treatments are gentle and always effective.”

    Traci Y.

  • “ Have been going to see Agata for many years. She is excellent!”

    Geoff K.

  • “Osteopathic care during and after my pregnancy with my second child was a wonderful experience. Regular adjustments throughout my pregnancy kept me aligned and feeling good, even though during my first pregnancy I had severe pubic bone pain ( and they say that normally this pain is even worse with a second). After having given birth, both my son and I received regular treatment for the first couple of months, which really helped my recovery and his growth and sleep. I would recommend osteopathic treatment to anyone who's expecting a new addition to their family.”

    Andrea Forster

Examples of Conditions Treated

Individuals have reported relief from the following list of conditions upon receiving osteopathic treatment:

  • Headaches/migraines

  • Pain: back, neck, shoulders, hips, knees, feet

  • Poor mobility/tightness

  • Nerve impingement; tingling and numbness from conditions affecting nerves

  • Sciatica

  • Plantar fasciitis

  • Tendonitis of any region of the body

  • Bursitis

  • Breathing problems, asthma, poor rib mobility

  • Pain related to joint replacement

  • Digestive issues

  • Chronic disorders

  • Autoimmune conditions and disorders

This is just a partial list of the many conditions that may be treated through Osteopathy. If you are wondering if Osteopathy is a good approach for you, give us a call and we can discuss.