MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What Problems Does an Osteopath Treat?

Living with chronic pain, stiffness, or recurring discomfort can significantly impact quality of life. However, there is hope; the following is a brief list of conditions, which can be treated and/or managed using an Osteopathic approach:

Musculoskeletal Disorders

Back, neck, and joint pain (chronic or acute pain in the spine, shoulders, hips, knees, and other joints
Arthritis and musculoskeletal stiffness (improving mobility and reducing discomfort)
Wounds, Contusions, and Burns
Post Surgical Scar Tissue, Including Abdominal Adhesions
Hip, Knee, Foot & Toe Pain
Shoulder, Elbow, Hand, Finger & Thumb Pain
Tenosynovitis (stenosing tenosynovitis a.k.a. trigger finger & de Quervain tendinopathy - pain in the back of the thumb)
Fibromyalgia
Jaw Pain - TMJ Disorder/Dysfunction, Facial Pain
Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA), Whiplash Injuries

Conditions Affecting the Head & Neck

Torticollis
Tension Headache
Migraine

Overuse Injuries

Plantar Fasciitis
Periostitis and Compartment Syndromes
Tendinitis (tennis elbow, golfer's elbow, bicipital tendinitis, quadriceps tendinitis)
Bursitis
Frozen Shoulder

Postural Dysfunction

Fascial & Muscle Imbalances
Pes Planus (flat feet)
Iliotibial Band Contracture
Patellofemoral Syndrome
Hyperlordosis (excessive concave low back curve)
Hyperkyphosis (excessive convex spinal curve)
Scoliosis

Joint Dysfunction

Hypermobility & Hypomobility
Temporalmandubular Joint Dysfunction (a.k.a. TMJD)
Degenerative Disc Disease (a.k.a. DDD)
Degenerative Joint Disease (a.k.a. DJD)
Osteoarthritis (a.k.a. OA - wear and tear type of arthritis the most common and is associated with the senior years of life)

Numbness & Tingling

Altered Sensations in the Arms (Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, a.k.a. TOS)
Hand (carpal tunnel)
Little Finger (ulnar nerve compression at the elbow [cubital tunnel syndrome], Guyon's canal syndrome, peripheral neuropathy [possible diabetes], cervical [neck] radiculopathy)
Sciatica (altered sensations running down the leg)
Front Thigh (a.k.a. meralgia paresthetica)

Postural Problems

Issues caused by Poor Posture, Repetitive Strain, or Occupational Habits
Poor posture can give rise to various problems, including back pain, neck pain, and frequent headaches
Osteopathy treatment effectively addresses these postural imbalances through spinal adjustments and exercises designed to realign the body
Correcting posture allows Joshua to help patients improve alignment, reduce pain, and enhance overall body mechanics while moving around in everyday life activities, such as gardening and walking

Conditions of the Central Nervous System (a.k.a. CNS)

Decubitus Ulcers
Seizures
Hemiplegia (a.k.a. Cerebral Vascular accident [CVA] - stroke)
Multiple Sclerosis
Parkinsons
Cerebral Palsy
Spinal Cord Injury
Poliomyelitis

Conditions of the Peripheral Nervous System (a.k.a. PNS)

Crush & Severance Injuries to Peripheral Nerves
Radial Nerve Lesions
Ulnar Nerve Lesions
Medial Nerve Lesions
Sciatic Nerve Lesions
Bell's Palsy

Compression Syndromes of the Peripheral Nerves

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Piriformis Syndrome

Circulatory Pathologies & Dysfunctions

Hypertension and Congestive Heart Failure
Raynaud's Phenomenon/Disease
Thrombophelitis
Varicose Veins

Gastrointestinal Disorders (a.k.a. GI system)

Digestive and circulatory issues - (by improving structural alignment, supporting the nervous, circulatory, and lymphatic systems)
Functional Dyspepsia (indigestion)
Hemorrhoids
Chronic Functional Disorders - Constipation, Irritable Bowel Syndrome [IBS], Intestinal Dysbiosis
Inflammatory Bowel Diseases [IBD] - (Crohn’s & Ulcerative Colitis)
GERD [gastro-oesophageal reflux disease] - (a.k.a. heartburn)

Neurologic Disorders

Headaches, Migraines, Bell’s Palsy, Trigeminal Neuralgia
Dizziness or Vertigo
Herpes Zoster (vestibular nerve in the internal auditory canal)
Sleep disturbances and stress-related tension (techniques can promote relaxation and better sleep)
Post-Concussion Syndromes
The Neuroses (anxiety, depression, or emotional distress)

Sports Injuries

Strains, Sprains, and Overuse Injuries in Athletes - (Osteopathy is particularly popular among athletes for treating and preventing sports-related injuries)
Biomechanics - (Osteopaths assess and work to correct any muscular imbalances that could lead to injuries)
Cruciate and Meniscal Injuries
Dislocations
Fracture
Whiplash
Enhance Performance by increasing health - (a tailored osteopathy treatment helps players , recover quickly from injuries, and maintain optimal function, making it an essential part of any athlete’s training and recovery regimen)

Circulatory issues

Enhanced Circulation - (Osteopathy promotes better blood flow, essential for healing and overall health; Improved circulation aids in delivering oxygen and nutrients to tissues while removing waste products, speeding up recovery, and maintaining vitality)

Systemic Pathologies

Fibromyalbia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Dupuytren’s Contracture - (A progressive connective tissue disorder causing the fascia in one or both hands to become thick and tight)
Osteoporosis (a.k.a. OP - bone thinning associated with the senior years in individuals who are of light body weight)
Diabetes Mellitus
Cancer

Inflammatory Arthritides

Ankylosing Sponylitis
Gout - (a group of disorders in which crystals of monosodium urate are deposited in the tissues, accomplished by attacks of acute arthritis)
Infectious Arthritis
Lyme Disease
Reiter's Syndrome - (a triad of arthritis, non-gonococcal urethritis and conjunctivitis [ pink-eye], following inflammation of the intestine or urinary tract)
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Scleroderma - (a systemic disorder affecting collagen, characterized by slowly spreading fibrosis and collagen deposits throughout the body)
Still's Disease and Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis - (these are conditions of chronic synovial inflammation in children)
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus [a.k.a. SLE] - (a type of chronic, attack remitting autoimmune inflammatory disease that can affect any system or organ in a variable manner)

Respiratory Pathologies

Sinusitis
COPD [Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease - consisting of emphysema, asthma, chronic bronchitis] - (techniques utilized in Osteopathic care enhance lung function through improved mobility in the chest and ribs, assisting patients in breathing more easily; focusing on the musculoskeletal aspect of breathing allows Joshua to enable patients to expand their lung capacity and minimize respiratory distress)

Gynecology

Pelvic Pain and Abdominal Scar Tissue - (resulting from a Caesarean Section is very common)
Menopausal problems, PMS
Salpingitis - (inflammation of the fallopian tubes)
Infertility - (due to functional/positional disorders)

Otology (study, diagnosis, and treatment of the ear, including hearing and balance disorders)

Tinnitus - (ringing in the ears)

Pediatrics

Enuresis - (involuntary passage of urine, especially nocturnally)
Colic Pain
Autism
Cerebral Palsy Syndromes
Learning Disabilities

Ear & Lung Infections

Ear pain
Chronic Bronchitis

Wholistic Benefits

Beyond symptom relief, Osteopathy can enhance overall health and well-being by improving circulation, restoring movement, and supporting the body’s natural self-healing mechanisms
Patients often report increased energy, better bodily function, and improved quality of life after successive treatments
Osteopathy is also used as a complementary therapy alongside conventional medical care

In Summary

Osteopathy stands out as a versatile therapy that addresses musculoskeletal pain, postural issues, systemic dysfunctions, and overall wellness; Osteopathy is an attractive choice for those seeking a natural path to wellness
Osteopathy addressing a wide array of conditions while promoting overall wellness with its emphasis on understanding the interconnectedness of the body’s systems, Osteopathy treatment alleviates symptoms and targets the underlying causes of discomfort and dysfunction
From chronic pain relief to enhanced mobility, patients can experience significant improvements in their quality of life through Joshua's Osteopathic care
Find out the reason why you are in pain, because you may not have to live with chronic pain if Osteopathy can help
Experience the relief you deserve through Joshua'a effective Osteopathic and Registered Acupuncture treatments
Join countless satisfied patients who have found relief and improved mobility through Joshua's comprehensive Osteopathic and Acupuncture service

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Osteopathy vs Chiropractor — What’s the Difference??

Osteopathy (OMP) and Chiropractic (DC) both use hands-on techniques to treat pain and restore function—but they differ in philosophy and approach
Osteopaths treat the body as a whole, addressing muscles, joints, circulation, organs, cranial bones, exercise therapy, and posture to improve overall balance; treating the body with so many body systems in the Osteopath's mind takes time and extensive training and learn to evaluate an individual’s lifestyle and environment as part of treatment
Chiropractic sessions tend to be very short in duration as compared to Osteopathic sessions which may extend up to 90 minutes
Chiropractors primarily focus on spinal alignment and nervous system function, often using quicker, more risky high-velocity adjustments to get the job done, some especially like and use the controversial neck rotation type of adjustment and the possible documented carotid artery complications that go with it, whereas Osteopathic treatments in Canada do not use high-velocity adjustments but focus more on less invasive treatment approaches
Once an Osteopathic treatment is performed, the soft tissues begin to reduce in their tone allowing better spinal alignment and nerve function
Osteopathy tends to be more gentle and holistic, suitable for all ages, including children, seniors, and pregnant individuals
I have had many patients tell me that they are scared to have their bones cracked especially in the neck, and that they don't like the sound and feel of having this done to them, or tell me that they have more pain after the crack, rib fractures have also been reported to me from a practitioner dropping their body weight onto them for the adjustment, and some even report to me that they have seen on the internet the disturbing results of arterial damage done by repeatedly cracking the neck by mean of the rotation technique done by a practitioner, and even some reports that people are cracking themselves trying to mimic an adjustment and are now hurt; if you are one of these types who has a stiff neck or spine and feel that a crack is needed but you are scared to do so, or feel that the joint cracking results are short lived and you are still suffering in pain, and you’re unsure which approach is right for you, Joshua can assess your needs and explain how Osteopathy may help your specific condition

Will My Health Insurance Cover Osteopathy & Registered Acupuncture?

Most insurance companies are now covering Osteopathic (OMP) and Registered Acupuncture (R. Ac.) treatments
If you are unsure about your plan's coverage, contact your insurance provider and inquire
Joshua has a very effective therapeutic combination (OMP and R. Ac.), one that is very insightful regarding health and wellness to say the least

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What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a form of healthcare focusing on the body’s structure, particularly its bones, muscles, and connective tissue, directly influences how well it functions and heals
Andrew Taylor Still, a 19th-century American physician, coined the word in 1874 and he chose “osteon” because he saw bone as the starting point for tracing the cause of disease throughout the body
Osteopathy is a wholistic, hands-on form of manual therapy that treats the body as a whole, working to identify the cause of an issue rather than simply treating the symptoms
This form of natural therapy is based on the understanding that the structure of your body — bones, muscles, joints, fascia and organs — influences its function
When something in that structure fails to move or work, that can have repercussions for your general health and well-being
Unlike many other types of health care, Osteopathy treats the body as a whole
If you come in to see Joshua with knee pain, for example, an he doesn’t just look at your knee, he will examine how your hips, back, posture — even your daily habits — could be contributing to the issue
Osteopathy addresses the underlying cause, not only relieving pain but also reducing the duration of pain and providing you with the balance to avoid recurring problems
Treatment incorporates a variety of soft “hands-on” techniques, including movement assessments, soft tissue techniques, and structural adjustments that aid the restoration of movement, function, and circulation
As it is personalized for every patient, Osteopathy is suitable for everyone – from babies to older people – and the treatment can be adapted to the needs of an athlete, an office worker, or anyone wishing to enhance their holistic health
When performed correctly, each treatment is customized

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Why Is Osteopathy A Good Choice?

in London, Ontario, Joshua take a holistic approach to restore balance, mobility, and comfort throughout your entire body. If you’ve ever wondered what do Osteopaths treat, you’re not alone. Many people turn to Osteopathy to find relief from back pain, sciatica, neck tension, or posture issues - but Osteopaths can help with far more than that.

Osteopathy aims to find the true cause of a patient's dysfunction and pain
Osteopathy is a drugless therapy in Canada
Many osteopaths practising are already healthcare professional before they became an OMP (osteopathic manual practitioner); this means that not only is the patient being helped with osteopathic techniques but also powerful adjunctive educational backgrounds such as RMT (registered massage therapy), R.Kin (registered kinesiologist), and PT (physiotherapy) to name a few.
Osteopathy's Montro is: "maximum precision, with minimal force"
Manual Osteopaths identify, assess, and treat the body’s structures and rhythm using a gentle, hands-on approach; this fundamental technique is called Osteopathic palpation; manual Osteopaths develop a very sensitive sense of touch to master Osteopathic palpation. Osteopathic palpation is what makes manual Osteopathy different from other forms of therapy
Generally, Osteopathy has a very fine reputation amongst other healthcare professionals in the context of patient care by the manual medicine means
Many patients report very good outcomes with Osteopathic therapy, however treatments vary amongst Osteopaths because it matters how experienced they are at the craft and the conditions encountered
Finally, Osteopathy is considered very safe

Who is the Originator of Osteopathy?

Andrew Taylor Still (1828–1917) was an American physician, surgeon, and reformer who established the practice of Osteopathy in the United States
He developed Osteopathy based on the principle that many diseases originate from problems in the musculoskeletal system and that the body has an inherent ability to heal itself when properly treated through manipulation of bones, muscles, and joints
He coined the term “Osteopathy” by combining the Greek words osteon (bone) and pathos (suffering) to reflect his focus on the musculoskeletal system as central to health
Still emphasized preventive medicine and holistic care, advocating that physicians should treat the underlying causes of disease rather than just symptoms
His philosophy promoted the idea that the body could maintain health and recover from illness through its own mechanisms, without over reliance on drugs
His work laid the foundation for the Osteopathic profession, which later expanded internationally
Today, Osteopathy continues to integrate manual therapy with conventional medical practices, reflecting Still’s original vision of holistic, patient-centered care

How Does The Body Heal Itself?

Andrew Taylor Still, M.D., discovered and developed the healing art and science known as Osteopathy. He created a system of health care founded upon the therapeutic actions of Osteopathic Manipulation.
The most fascinating expression of Andrew Taylor Still’s perception of holism is that of connected oneness; another way to state this is: human beings function holistically are in a dynamic state of connected oneness.
The term “holism” was not coined as term until 1926 and was not made famous until the 1960s; holism is based upon Aristotle’s philosophy of the whole is greater than the sum of its parts; the concept of holism is in essence a law of nature
Still expressed holism when he stated, “We look at the body in health as meaning perfection and harmony, not in one part, but as the whole”
The concept of holism permeates all of Still’s work and is an indispensable component to basic Osteopathic philosophy
The body possesses self-regulatory mechanisms that are self-healing in nature - this is Osteopathy's second major principal
The body and psyche have the ability to selfheal, or to adapt, in the presence of disease or injury
Respecting this natural law forms the foundation of all treatment
Nature performs the repair and delivers the therapeutic actions
Nature is the true doctor that performs the ultimate acts of healing and the beneficial compensatory adjustments
Osteopaths can remove the obstructions that cause disease and support the conditions that promote healing
Health is nature inside us, and that healing emerges from what is healthy in us rather than from what is diseased - Osteopathy promotes health in every way
There is a saying out there: "To find health should be the object of the doctor - anyone can find disease"
The foundation stone of the Osteopathic system of health care is based upon trusting the unnamed forces of healing, which are concordant with Nature

How Important are My Muscles?

The musculoskeletal system (bones, muscles, and connective tissues) has a unique structure and function that impacts the overall health of the entire organism
When the musculoskeletal system fails to perform normally, the entire organism may suffer a localized or generalized disorder

How Important is Anatomical Knowledge?

The science of Osteopathy cannot exist without knowing and understanding the intricacies of anatomy
One component of holism is anatomic unity
Still said, “We know that if we ever know the whole, we must first know the parts”
By knowing anatomy we can make a more precise diagnosis
By making a precise diagnosis we are better able to apply a specific Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (a.k.a. OMT)
By applying a specific Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment we not only remove the focal obstructions to self-healing but also augment the local and global health of the tissues
By restoring the ability of the body to selfheal we let the natural forces of healing do the work of repair thus allowing for the restoration of holism
Still said it best when he declared, “A knowledge of anatomy is only a dead weight if we do not know how to apply that knowledge with successful skill
An up-to-date osteopath must have a masterful knowledge of anatomy and physiology
The goal of an Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment is to restore the natural ability to self-heal, to promote global health of the body by removing obstructions to proper blood flow, fluid flow, or nerve function allowing for the restoration of motion, without excellent anatomical knowledge this cannot happen, this is how important anatomy is

What Will My Initial Osteopathic Appointment be Like?

This is a very good question and deserves a detailed answer
During your initial Osteopathic session, there is what is referred to as a Case History Discussion, and it is very important that this time be valued amongst all other future sessions because this is all about you and major clue as to how to improve on your condition are hidden in this conversation, in all the times I have spent speaking with people about the events that led them up to the point of setting up an appointment to come in at see me, there is no better time spent than this
The case history conversation may take nearly 75% of the time allotted for the initial appointment, this is a very good start to figuring out a solution for your unique particular case
As mentioned , the case history discussion may take some time as there may be lots to talk about - this is a time for you to take a deep breath and let Joshua know about how you are feeling, indicating the painful areas, how long have you been suffering, what other therapies you have had and how they worked out or didn't work out, exercises that you have tried that you like or do not like, there are so many attributes a patient has to talk about and because of this, the time spent talking and to Joshua listening and learning about you, takes well deserved time
Joshua will listen then ask questions, to begin developing a working hypothesis; and the reason for the hypothesis is because in most cases there are a multitude of reasons as to why a person is experiencing bodily pain and disfunction
Your complete health history can very telling to the Osteopath, and is of great significance for all of your future treatment goals
The first 30 minutes is an important first step in developing a logical-emotional treatment plan aimed at having you feel better and living pain-free
After the case history is completed, then postural analysis begins
Gate (walking) analysis also gives very good information and should be included with every examination
Orthopedic special testing follows based on the case history and postural analysis - these special tests are used to differentiate possibilities and to disprove elements of a working hypotheses (a.k.a. differential diagnosis - DDX) about your major and minor complaints; special tests are essential in assisting the Osteopath in finding the true cause of the disturbance (or pain) and each special test will either be positive or negative
Once the special testing is completed (at least for now), the treatment may proceed which usually involves body range of motion and palpation
The pain scale is set between 1 to 10 (10 is very painful 1 is not) - the paint scale is used for the patient and osteopath to communicate to each other about the patient's tolerance to manual pressures and stretches
A precise anatomic diagnosis is made using hands-on palpation of the body, once a diagnosis is made, a patient-specific dynamic Osteopathic treatment plan may then be implemented
In conclusion, over the years I have noted in people's eyes that they are very grateful following their first Osteopathic session, and not because they miraculously have all their physical health and pain issues solved, but rather, they now realize how and why all of their body's amazing systems (e.g. digestive, muscular, neurological, circulatory, lymphatic, etc.) all work together harmoniously and synergistically within them all to give the feeling of radiance, true health; and the knowledge that they now have a grip on there physical and mental well-being

What Do I Wear?

Yoga and sportswear are good, as are shorts and a t-shirt

For female clients, a bra strap which opens at the back is helpful in facilitating any hands-on techniques which may be required between the shoulder blades
Proper clothing is important since osteopathic treatments generally do not require the patient to disrobe, but at the same time overly restricted by clothing can limit some needed osteopathic treatment techniques
Please wear a fresh clean pair of socks because the Osteopath needs to also look at and palpate your feet, for women with long hair it is helpful to have an elastic band or when examining the upper body

What Will I Feel Like After?

Following your Osteopathy treatment, your body will be in a process of readjustment for the next 3 - 4 days
Everybody is genetically different and because of this, there are variations in the way each patient heals; therefore, each patient will have a different experience with the healing phenomena
Some patients may feel the benefits of an Osteopathic treatment immediately, while others may notice that they feel a positive difference in their well being within a few days following
Generally, you can expect to be somewhat sleepy a few hours before your regular bedtime, as your body is in a healing-restorative mode
You will likely have a deeper sleep than usual and wake up feeling more refreshed and recharged, but this is all very subjective to each person * Remember, in some cases it has taken years for the body to come out of balance, and it may take a long to reclaim health and vitality, one must have patience with their body, combined with self-love and respect
Think, if healing is going to be maximized, especially if long-suffering is involved, a big effort will be involved between the patient and Osteopath
The body and psyche have the ability to selfheal, or to adapt, in the presence of disease; respecting this natural law forms the foundation of all treatment

An Osteopathic intervention has three key components:

The Osteopathic examination makes a detailed anatomic clinical impression while monitoring the vitality of the tissues
Application a tissue-specific and patient-specific Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment
Letting the work of Nature do the true work of healing, because Nature does the repair, renovation, restoration of motion, and creative compensation; Osteopaths only assist Nature by removing the impediments to the full expression of holism and help to promote the conditions that augment the therapeutic processes

Still taught that, “Harmony only dwells where obstructions do not exist"

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Is Osteopathy Safe During Pregnancy?

Yes, gentle Osteopathic techniques are safe and effective for managing pregnancy-related back pain, posture changes, and pelvic discomfort
Osteopathy effectively treats pregnancy-related pain by using gentle manual techniques to alleviate discomfort and restore balance in the body as it adapts to physical changes
Through targeted manipulation of muscles, joints, and soft tissues, osteopaths can relieve tension in areas such as the back, pelvis, and hips, providing significant pain relief and promoting relaxation
Additionally, Joshua helps improve posture and mobility, which is crucial for supporting the body during pregnancy and preparing for labour

Will Osteopathy and Registered Acupuncture Cure My Condition?

Cure is a very strong word and is a loaded question to be asked
I have heard many practitioners use this power word to entice patients to book in with them, but this is not fair to the patient and in many cases is unrealistic, I have been treating the public since 2002 and over that time span, I know what high therapeutic limitations are in order to help the human body feel much better, and I also understand the limitations of the human body for which condition is present
Sometimes, a patient comes to me with a simple case and it literally is solved and the patient walks away pain-free after a series of treatments and exercise regiment, however this is not normally the case as the human body is complex in its many interacting systems, and every system must be investigated in hopes to find the true cause of the pain; and once this is found there is a sigh of relief because now real therapeutic results can happen
The body cures itself, and as long as any particular therapy promotes the body to repair and maintain itself, and respects this natural law, that therapy can be considered a good therapeutic choice, again it all comes to identifying the true cause and sometimes there are multiple true causes, however there has to be an underlying reason as to why pain and dysfunction begins in the body
It is the ultimate goal of the Osteopath is to find and determine (if possible), the true cause (some refer to this a the root cause) of why your body feels as it does, this concept of finding the true cause, is probably the biggest reason why people search out an Osteopath to help them
Therapeutically speaking, only treating the painful area or areas, in most cases, will not only lead to the original reason why there is pain, but will also lead the practitioner away from the true cause - although having said that, the painful areas need to be treated because they are part of the body's physiological story as well
The Osteopath is trained to not get fixated on the painful area in which the patient has identified, but to locate other areas that are involved but are not painful, this may be one of the specific attributes of why Osteopathy is different from all other therapies available; interestingly, these other areas may be distant from the painful area in which the patient feels the pain
Once the true cause has been determined (if indeed it is present and can be found), the area or areas must be explained to the patient and treatment can proceed with hopefully, much better results than just focussing on the patients painful area that they feel
Once the true cause is treated then the painful symptoms tend to wind down in their intensity and may disappear altogether, however, this takes much patients, because the process of innate healing takes time and lots of effort from the patient and the Osteopath
It must be also realized that not all conditions can treated the same way, for instance, osteoarthritis (a.k.a. wear and tear) of the hip or knee joints may need surgery if it is advanced to high degree; in this case the arthritis condition has gone far beyond where osteopathy can effectively treat the problem with therapy and exercise, however, after a joint has been replaced, Osteopathy plays a big part in the rehabilitation process of the patient living their life with an artificial joint
Having stated at all the above information, for many years (and many years to come) I have treated and coached thousands of patients about their reasons why they feel as they do and have worked with them in developing at home therapeutic exercise programs; either these particular exercise exercises are performed at home, or in their gym, or in a playground, the one attribute that makes the big difference is the patient's mind-set, meaning, their must be an intense motivation to help themselves, not with just specific therapeutic exercises that are appropriate for their condition, but also nutritionally, and likely the most important, psychologically - I will just touch on this for a second - stress causes a lot of problems in the human body, but one of the most profound is the manifestation of altered breathing mechanics (a.k.a. clavicular breathing) and in my experience many of the tingling and numbing sensation in the arms and headaches are caused by only breathing into the upper portion of the lungs; and this gets into the realm of relaxation and meditation coaching which I focus on as well
In summary: Osteopathy is a health care system based upon finding and treating the causes of a disease or injury rather than only attempting to address symptoms. Pain is a symptom, not a disease. If pain is exclusively treated, and there is a failure to arrive at the origins of what is causing pain, then the therapeutic actions are limited. The causes of pain are often distant from the symptoms.

Can Joshua Help with My Nutrition & Lifestyle Medicine?

Joshua also has credentials as a Certified Wholistic Health Coach (CHHC), and works with his patients offering advice on lifestyle modifications and nutritional options
Ergonomics for workplace setups are also critical and my be a major underlying cause, many patients are sitting all day at a desk with getting up for hours - this is a problem
Dietary adjustments for better health has a lot of common sense to it, when it comes down to feeding the body the nutrition it needs to reduce chronic inflammation which tends to be rapid in today's society of lousy food choices (artificial anything added to foods is an indicator that this food is not meant to be in the human diet) Joshua knows this topic all too well
Water is essential for life, drinking purified water is a logical solution to the the over-toxicity problem plaguing our bodies on a daily basis (charcoal is not a good enough filter any longer)
Stress management techniques to enhance overall well-being and are an effective strategy to help with clavicular breathing (chest breathing) at the root of many arm and hand tingling and pain (nerve compression problems)
Joshua is very knowledgable when it comes to living healthy and happy and how to promote a disease free body as much as possible living in a toxic world of dietary confusion and on our food supply
Ask to set a specific appointment for CHHC and find out how healthy you truly can become!

Is There Any Evidence that Osteopathy Works?

Low back pain is the most studied application of Osteopathy, and the evidence is favorable; a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials published in BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders found that Osteopathy significantly reduced low back pain compared to both active treatments and placebo; the pain reduction persisted at short, intermediate, and long-term follow-up, with benefits lasting at least three months. Notably, the researchers concluded that the improvement was greater than what you’d expect from placebo effects alone, suggesting the techniques themselves are driving the results rather than just the experience of being treated
You can go to pubmed and research Osteopathy Treatments - because new evidence is coming out all of the time
The best approach to this question if I ever get is to just go set appointment up with an Osteopath, and find out for yourself if it works or not
I would encourage you to at least minimally receive 6 treatments for 60 minutes
Like any other trade, there are many people performing it, and in order to master the craft so to speak, it takes years and years of clinical painstaking hours treating people and learning how the human body works and how it recalibrates and heals itself
The success of an Osteopath often lies in the Osteopath's ability to persuade the patient to begin a home care exercise program if possible and if the patient agrees to it - I am always relieved when I have a patient who is already used to working out at a gym or at their home on a regular basis before they have come to see me
I know that if I can have my patience performed the exercise properly and often enough, they will benefit if the exercise is appropriate for the condition
I always remind myself that I can always help somebody somehow, because not all conditions can be helped with osteopathy but, they always have something or two that I can help with, to help them live their life with less pain and disability if this is the case
I can honestly say that the success of an Osteopathic relationship with the patient comes with the ability of the two to get along as people
Once this occurs, and there is working therapeutic relationship, real healing can begin as patient and practitioner work hand-in-hand together with focus, always striving for better results and understanding
Both patient and Osteopathic practitioner are then students of the patient's body - since all bodies do heal but at different rates and abilities
Just keep in mind that research and evidence usually come after the fact
Andrew Still said: "Nature has no apology to offer ... Health is Nature”
Nature does the work, Nature performs the repair and delivers the therapeutic actions, Nature is the true doctor that performs the ultimate acts of healing and the beneficial compensatory adjustments
If Osteopathic treatments can remove the obstructions that cause disease and support the conditions that promote healing, then Nature’s chemistry, drug store, and remedies can perform the necessary actions to restore equilibrium at whatever level is possible for that individual patient
Still said it this way: "Osteopathy is that science which [helps the body] regain its normal equilibrium of structure and function"

MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What Problems Does an Osteopath Treat?

Osteopathy vs Chiropractor — What’s the Difference??

Will My Health Insurance Cover Osteopathy & Registered Acupuncture?

Most insurance companies are now covering Osteopathic (OMP) and Registered Acupuncture (R. Ac.) treatments

If you are unsure about your plan's coverage, contact your insurance provider and inquire

Joshua has a very effective therapeutic combination (OMP and R. Ac.), one that is very insightful regarding health and wellness to say the least

Osteopathy is a form of healthcare focusing on the body’s structure, particularly its bones, muscles, and connective tissue, directly influences how well it functions and heals

Andrew Taylor Still, a 19th-century American physician, coined the word in 1874 and he chose “osteon” because he saw bone as the starting point for tracing the cause of disease throughout the body

Osteopathy is a wholistic, hands-on form of manual therapy that treats the body as a whole, working to identify the cause of an issue rather than simply treating the symptoms

This form of natural therapy is based on the understanding that the structure of your body — bones, muscles, joints, fascia and organs — influences its function

When something in that structure fails to move or work, that can have repercussions for your general health and well-being

Unlike many other types of health care, Osteopathy treats the body as a whole

If you come in to see Joshua with knee pain, for example, an he doesn’t just look at your knee, he will examine how your hips, back, posture — even your daily habits — could be contributing to the issue

Osteopathy addresses the underlying cause, not only relieving pain but also reducing the duration of pain and providing you with the balance to avoid recurring problems

Treatment incorporates a variety of soft “hands-on” techniques, including movement assessments, soft tissue techniques, and structural adjustments that aid the restoration of movement, function, and circulation

As it is personalized for every patient, Osteopathy is suitable for everyone – from babies to older people – and the treatment can be adapted to the needs of an athlete, an office worker, or anyone wishing to enhance their holistic health

When performed correctly, each treatment is customized

Osteopathy aims to find the true cause of a patient's dysfunction and pain

Osteopathy is a drugless therapy in Canada

Osteopathy's Montro is: "maximum precision, with minimal force"

Generally, Osteopathy has a very fine reputation amongst other healthcare professionals in the context of patient care by the manual medicine means

Many patients report very good outcomes with Osteopathic therapy, however treatments vary amongst Osteopaths because it matters how experienced they are at the craft and the conditions encountered

Finally, Osteopathy is considered very safe

Who is the Originator of Osteopathy?

Andrew Taylor Still, M.D., discovered and developed the healing art and science known as Osteopathy. He created a system of health care founded upon the therapeutic actions of Osteopathic Manipulation.

The most fascinating expression of Andrew Taylor Still’s perception of holism is that of connected oneness; another way to state this is: human beings function holistically are in a dynamic state of connected oneness.

The term “holism” was not coined as term until 1926 and was not made famous until the 1960s; holism is based upon Aristotle’s philosophy of the whole is greater than the sum of its parts; the concept of holism is in essence a law of nature

Still expressed holism when he stated, “We look at the body in health as meaning perfection and harmony, not in one part, but as the whole”

The concept of holism permeates all of Still’s work and is an indispensable component to basic Osteopathic philosophy

The body possesses self-regulatory mechanisms that are self-healing in nature - this is Osteopathy's second major principal

The body and psyche have the ability to selfheal, or to adapt, in the presence of disease or injury

Respecting this natural law forms the foundation of all treatment

Nature performs the repair and delivers the therapeutic actions

Nature is the true doctor that performs the ultimate acts of healing and the beneficial compensatory adjustments

Osteopaths can remove the obstructions that cause disease and support the conditions that promote healing

Health is nature inside us, and that healing emerges from what is healthy in us rather than from what is diseased - Osteopathy promotes health in every way

There is a saying out there: "To find health should be the object of the doctor - anyone can find disease"

The foundation stone of the Osteopathic system of health care is based upon trusting the unnamed forces of healing, which are concordant with Nature

How Important are My Muscles?

The musculoskeletal system (bones, muscles, and connective tissues) has a unique structure and function that impacts the overall health of the entire organism

When the musculoskeletal system fails to perform normally, the entire organism may suffer a localized or generalized disorder

How Important is Anatomical Knowledge?

The science of Osteopathy cannot exist without knowing and understanding the intricacies of anatomy

One component of holism is anatomic unity

Still said, “We know that if we ever know the whole, we must first know the parts”

By knowing anatomy we can make a more precise diagnosis

By making a precise diagnosis we are better able to apply a specific Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (a.k.a. OMT)

By applying a specific Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment we not only remove the focal obstructions to self-healing but also augment the local and global health of the tissues

By restoring the ability of the body to selfheal we let the natural forces of healing do the work of repair thus allowing for the restoration of holism

Still said it best when he declared, “A knowledge of anatomy is only a dead weight if we do not know how to apply that knowledge with successful skill

An up-to-date osteopath must have a masterful knowledge of anatomy and physiology

What Will My Initial Osteopathic Appointment be Like?

This is a very good question and deserves a detailed answer

The case history conversation may take nearly 75% of the time allotted for the initial appointment, this is a very good start to figuring out a solution for your unique particular case

Joshua will listen then ask questions, to begin developing a working hypothesis; and the reason for the hypothesis is because in most cases there are a multitude of reasons as to why a person is experiencing bodily pain and disfunction

Your complete health history can very telling to the Osteopath, and is of great significance for all of your future treatment goals

The first 30 minutes is an important first step in developing a logical-emotional treatment plan aimed at having you feel better and living pain-free

After the case history is completed, then postural analysis begins

Gate (walking) analysis also gives very good information and should be included with every examination

Once the special testing is completed (at least for now), the treatment may proceed which usually involves body range of motion and palpation

The pain scale is set between 1 to 10 (10 is very painful 1 is not) - the paint scale is used for the patient and osteopath to communicate to each other about the patient's tolerance to manual pressures and stretches

A precise anatomic diagnosis is made using hands-on palpation of the body, once a diagnosis is made, a patient-specific dynamic Osteopathic treatment plan may then be implemented

What Do I Wear?

Yoga and sportswear are good, as are shorts and a t-shirt

For female clients, a bra strap which opens at the back is helpful in facilitating any hands-on techniques which may be required between the shoulder blades

Proper clothing is important since osteopathic treatments generally do not require the patient to disrobe, but at the same time overly restricted by clothing can limit some needed osteopathic treatment techniques

Please wear a fresh clean pair of socks because the Osteopath needs to also look at and palpate your feet, for women with long hair it is helpful to have an elastic band or when examining the upper body

What Will I Feel Like After?

Following your Osteopathy treatment, your body will be in a process of readjustment for the next 3 - 4 days

Everybody is genetically different and because of this, there are variations in the way each patient heals; therefore, each patient will have a different experience with the healing phenomena

Some patients may feel the benefits of an Osteopathic treatment immediately, while others may notice that they feel a positive difference in their well being within a few days following

Generally, you can expect to be somewhat sleepy a few hours before your regular bedtime, as your body is in a healing-restorative mode

Think, if healing is going to be maximized, especially if long-suffering is involved, a big effort will be involved between the patient and Osteopath

The body and psyche have the ability to selfheal, or to adapt, in the presence of disease; respecting this natural law forms the foundation of all treatment

An Osteopathic intervention has three key components:

The Osteopathic examination makes a detailed anatomic clinical impression while monitoring the vitality of the tissues

Application a tissue-specific and patient-specific Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment

Still taught that, “Harmony only dwells where obstructions do not exist"

Yes, gentle Osteopathic techniques are safe and effective for managing pregnancy-related back pain, posture changes, and pelvic discomfort