Osteopathic massage is a form of holistic massage. It encompasses the principles of both osteopathy and remedial massage. Osteo massage is a “whole body” massage involving a variety of stretching exercises and osteopathic practices. The objective is to achieve healthy joint positioning that will promote overall wellbeing.
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The osteo massage usually occurs in an osteopathic clinic with the osteopath performing a massage to reduce stiffness and tightening in the muscles and joints. The massage improves blood flow as well as improves posture, facilitates lymphatic drainage, and enhances the nervous and venous systems. As such, it boosts immunity and energy levels, improving overall health and wellbeing.
How is an Osteo Massage Different to Remedial Massage?
Remedial massage promotes muscle and joint recovery after sport, focusing on specific areas of the body. After exercise, the massage is designed to reduce the impact of Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) which most people experience after exercise. Osteo massage also treats injuries and muscle soreness but it also includes overall health and wellbeing by providing a whole-body experience rather than only specific joints or muscles whilst embracing osteopathy.
What Conditions May Benefit From Osteo Massage?
Osteopathic massage can be used to treat a wide range of conditions ranging from general muscle aches and stiffness to carpal tunnel syndrome and tennis elbow. Sports injuries and poor posture are also frequently treated by osteo massage. Headaches, migraines and other stress-related tensions can also be relieved in this manner. If you are suffering from any acute or chronic conditions, osteo massage may be able to help.
What are the Difference between Osteopathy and Osteopathic Massage?
Osteopathic massage is excellent for clients who have responded well to remedial massage and benefit from stretching. The osteo massage provides a full-body experience as it doesn’t focus on a specific injury or problem, meaning it would be regarded as a holistic treatment. Massage has also been proven to be beneficial for anyone seeking an overall “pick me up” rather than treating a specific problem.
Osteopathic clinics and osteopathy can target specific injuries or problems. The osteopath will examine your complete medical history and perform a clinical examination. The purpose is to establish the root cause of the pain and create an individualised plan for treatment and recovery. This will include stretching, mobilising the joints and an “exercise prescription” to aid rehabilitation.
What Happens During Osteo Massage?
The massage will be conducted in the osteopathic clinic by a qualified osteopath. A physical examination will take place to assess posture, joint function and spinal alignment. In some cases, further examinations may take place. The massage is designed to be a relaxing experience but one that relieves tensions and promotes wellness.
In a similar manner to the remedial massage, therapeutic massage techniques are used. However, with osteo massage, less pressure is exerted with more emphasis placed upon rocking and manipulation to promote joint mobility and aid muscle relaxation. During the massage, any restrictions will become evident and focus can be switched to improve blood flow.
After the osteo massage you will be feeling relaxed and your therapist may include some suggestions regarding exercises you can do at home to improve posture along with joint and muscle flexibility and mobility.
What is the Difference between an Osteopath and a Chiropractor?
A chiropractor is a medical professional who is predominantly focused on treating problems with joints and the spine. Some chiropractors also adopt some osteopathy techniques to aid muscle flexibility. An osteopath considers the whole body and all conditions rather than focusing on a specific complaint. It may include digestive or respiratory problems along with muscular, spinal and joint issues.
It is a common belief that the role of a chiropractor is to make “adjustments” to the body to improve its functionality. These adjustments are quite specific and aimed at improving problems with a single joint or condition. The osteopath will look at the overall picture and try to create a feeling of general wellness. Some argue that chiropractors are more traditional practitioners and adopt a theoretical approach whereas osteopaths are regarded as holistic. Both professionals are highly trained and qualified and are experts in their chosen field with both focusing on their client’s wellbeing.