Osteopathic manipulative medicine, also called osteopathic manipulation, is a treatment method that relies on the use of hands for moving and manipulating muscles and joints. As a result, diagnosing, treating, and preventing various conditions and injuries affecting your musculoskeletal system is possible. Often, you may seek the service of a doctor of osteopathic medicine Cary, NC, after conservative treatment options like physical therapy and medications have been unsuccessful in adequately aligning and balancing your muscles. The treatment involving manipulation of joints and muscles can help you avoid surgery.
Osteopathic manipulation treatment can be helpful in the treatment of various conditions affecting the body’s musculoskeletal system. These problems include asthma, COVID-19, flu, chronic pain, constipation, arthritis, headaches, injuries from sports and repetitive stress, and pregnancy-associated issues.
The physical manipulation and massage of the musculoskeletal system, which includes connective tissues, ligaments, bones, and cartilage, works since it increases blood supply to tissues, relieves muscle tension, and encourages the triggering of the healing mechanism of the body.
Before treatment
Your doctor of osteopathic medicine may ask you about the signs and symptoms you may be experiencing due to musculoskeletal problems. Also, the health provider may want to understand the status of your health and well-being and lifestyle. That may require sharing information about your sleeping habits, physical activity level, and diet.
The information you provide to the specialist in osteopathic manipulation treatment is vital for understanding the impact of your lifestyle on your overall health.
Apart from diagnosing your condition by physically manipulating different body sections, you may also have to undergo imaging tests like x-rays before starting treatment.
During treatment
While standing, lying down, or sitting on an examination table, your health specialist will physically manipulate and align the musculoskeletal system and move your hands and legs in different positions.
Your doctor has various osteopathic manipulative treatment techniques (OMT) for manipulating your body. The treatment approach that your doctor recommends will depend on your symptoms and the type of condition affecting your health. Some standard treatment techniques at your doctor’s disposal include massaging and stretching stiff joints.
As you are in a specific position, your doctor will physically apply pressure, gently stretch your muscles, and move joints to achieve correct alignment.
Your doctor may also direct you to perform a few breathing exercises.
The movements the doctor subjects to your body, even though they may seem unusual, often cannot hurt you. If you experience discomfort during the physical manipulation of your musculoskeletal system, inform your health provider immediately.
After treatment
The way you respond to the treatment compared with others may be different. For instance, while the treatment may leave you feeling rejuvenated and energized, it may leave another person exhausted.
You may experience soreness for a few days after treatment.
After each osteopathic manipulation treatment session, remember to stay hydrated, go for a short walk, and avoid engaging in physically demanding activities. The availability of sufficient fluids in your body promotes the removal of toxic substances after the relaxation of your muscles. And walking assists the body in adjusting correctly.
Contact Generations Family Practice today for specialist osteopathic manipulation.