Other Issues
I find in man a miniature universe. – Andrew Taylor Still, DO
Anxiety & Stress
Stress is a natural response of the body to perceived threats or challenges. It triggers a complex physiological response that involves multiple systems in the body. When a person experiences stress, the hypothalamus in the brain activates the sympathetic nervous system, which in turn triggers the release of stress hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, from the adrenal glands.: the « fight or flight response «
The stress response leads to several physiological changes in the body, including
- LIncreased heart rate
- LElevated blood sugar
- LSuppressed immune function
- LIncreased inflammation.
- LAltered digestive function
- LImpaired cognitive function.
Over time, chronic stress can lead to a variety of health problems, including anxiety, depression, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity. Understanding the physiopathology of stress can help individuals better manage their stress levels and reduce the risk of developing these health problems.
Osteopathy can have a positive impact on the autonomic nervous system by
Balancing sympathetic and parasympathetic tone:
Osteopathy can help balance the activity of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, which can help regulate bodily functions and promote homeostasis.
Improving circulation:
Osteopathy can help improve circulation in the body, which can help provide nutrients and oxygen to the autonomic nervous system and improve its function.
Reducing tension:
Osteopathy can help reduce tension in the muscles and fascia, which can help alleviate pressure on the autonomic nervous system and improve its function.
Insomnia
Insomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or both. People with insomnia may have trouble falling asleep at bedtime, wake up frequently during the night, wake up too early in the morning, or experience non-restorative sleep that leaves them feeling tired and groggy during the day. Insomnia can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term), and can be caused by a variety of factors including stress, anxiety, depression, medication side effects, medical conditions, or poor sleep hygiene. Insomnia can have a negative impact on quality of life and can lead to fatigue, difficulty concentrating, mood disturbances, and other health problems if left untreated.
The osteopathic assessment to insomnia often finds this condition to be multi factorial;
- LStress Levels
- LOld injuries, and chronic pain can all disrupt your sleep.
- LEven tightness in the body gives mixed signals to the nervous system.
Overall, the osteopathic assessment for insomnia will typically involve a comprehensive evaluation of the individual’s overall health and musculoskeletal function, as well as an individualized treatment plan to address any identified imbalances or dysfunctions that may be contributing to sleep disturbances.
Difficulties Breathing
Osteopathy can potentially help with difficulties breathing by addressing underlying musculoskeletal imbalances or dysfunctions that may be contributing to respiratory issues. Here are some ways in which osteopathy can potentially help with difficulties breathing:
- LImproving posture
- LReducing tension
- LEnhancing diaphragmatic function
- LAddressing restrictions in the rib cage.
- LCalming the nervous system.
However, it’s important to note that the effectiveness of osteopathy for breathing difficulties may depend on the underlying cause of the respiratory issues. It’s also important to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to breathing difficulties.
Excessive Burping
There is a link between excessive burping and stress, as stress can impact the functioning of the digestive system and the diaphragm and contribute to symptoms such as belching or burping.
You can refer to the sections stress and breathing difficulties for more informations.
It’s important to note that excessive burping can also be a symptom of underlying medical conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, or gallbladder disease, and it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional if excessive burping is a persistent or severe symptom.
Trauma separates us from our bodies – Gabor Mate (the Myth of Normal)
PTSD
PTSD stands for post-traumatic stress disorder, which is a mental health condition that can develop in some individuals after they have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. Traumatic events that can trigger PTSD may include physical or sexual assault, natural disasters, accidents, combat or war, or other types of violence.
Individuals with PTSD may experience a range of symptoms that can significantly impact their daily life, including:
- LIntrusive thoughts or memories of the traumatic event
- LNightmares or flashbacks
- LAvoidance of triggers or reminders of the traumatic event
- LHyperarousal or feeling "on edge"
- LDifficulty sleeping or concentrating
- LFeelings of guilt, shame, or detachment from others
- LPTSD can also impact physical health and may be associated with a range of physical symptoms such as chronic pain, headaches, and gastrointestinal issues.
Osteopathy may be one approach that can help individuals with PTSD, as it can address physical and emotional tension that may be contributing to symptoms such as chronic pain, anxiety, and depression.
While osteopathy may be a helpful adjunct therapy for individuals with PTSD, it is important to note that it is not a replacement for psychological or psychiatric treatment. A comprehensive treatment plan for PTSD may include a combination of approaches, such as therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes, as well as complementary therapies such as osteopathy. It is important for individuals with PTSD to work with a healthcare professional to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets their individual needs and preference.
Vertigo & Dizziness
Dizziness and vertigo are related but distinct sensations. Dizziness is a general term that describes a range of sensations that can include feeling lightheaded, unsteady, or off-balance. People with dizziness may feel like they are about to faint or lose their balance.
Vertigo, on the other hand, is a specific type of dizziness that is characterized by a sensation of spinning or motion, even when the person is stationary.
Osteopathic treatment for dizziness involves a holistic approach to address the underlying causes of the patient’s symptoms.
Osteopathic treatment for dizziness may involve various techniques such as soft tissue manipulation, joint mobilization, and cranial osteopathy.
Cranial osteopathy may be particularly helpful for patients with vertigo or dizziness caused by head trauma, whiplash, or neck strain.
Before seeing an osteopath for dizziness, it is important to make sure that you have ruled out any serious medical conditions that may be causing your symptoms. It is recommended that you first see a medical doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions such as stroke, brain tumor, or heart disease that could be causing your dizziness.
Sinusitis
Sinusitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the sinus cavities, which are hollow spaces within the bones of the face and skull. The inflammation can be caused by an infection, allergy, or other factors, and can lead to a buildup of mucus and difficulty draining the sinuses. This can result in symptoms such as facial pain or pressure, congestion, nasal discharge, coughing, and a reduced sense of smell or taste.
Osteopathic medicine is a holistic approach to healthcare that emphasizes the interconnectedness of different systems in the body. Osteopathic treatment for sinusitis focuses on identifying and addressing any structural or functional issues that may be contributing to the condition. Some possible osteopathic causes of sinusitis include:
- LDysfunction of the cranial bones: The cranial bones of the skull can become misaligned or restricted, which can lead to impaired drainage of the sinuses and inflammation.
- LMuscular tension or spasm: Tension or spasm in the muscles of the face and neck can also impede sinus drainage and lead to sinusitis.
- LPostural imbalances: Poor posture can contribute to sinusitis by altering the alignment of the head and neck and causing increased pressure in the sinuses.
- LDysfunction of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ): The TMJ is the joint that connects the jaw to the skull.
