Osteopathic techniques can be grouped into four major types:
Each of these modalities requires very careful palpation and precise application of energy. In some of them patient may perceive the pressure applied by the hand of the therapists. While in others like Cranial-Sacral the patient might not be aware of the movement induced by the osteopath. The aim of any osteopathic technique is to restore the proper position and mobility of the tissues. The sequence and the length of the application is dictated by precise Osteopathic Clinical Methodology.
Osteo-articular corrections
These techniques are aimed at restoration of proper mobility and positioning of the joints. Osteo-articular corrections are mainly used in the case of an old chronic injury. Osteopath puts the bones in a very precise position and waits for the body to show the "passage" which is usually felt like a softening of the tissues, and then delivers the impulse. Osteopath will never move the joint beyond it physiological range of motion or apply the correction if the body does not show the passage.
Cranial-sacral application
This is an integral part of osteopathic treatment and is applied by itself or as a part of any other technique. It was developed by William Garner Sutherland, DO who was the student of the osteopathy's founder, A.T. Still. Cranial-sacral concept is based on the idea that bones of the head are in the constant rhythmic motion. This motion is transmitted through the entire body. Cranial-sacral application is aimed to restore this rhythm and thus allow the forces of life to flow free.
Myofascial release
Myofascial release is a general term that applies to a variety of techniques directed at the soft tissues. All these techniques use minimal force to bring about relaxation of the muscles and reduction in the tension of the connective tissue.
Some of the most common techniques are:
- Muscle Energy Techniques - Here the force of the patients muscle contraction is used to alter the position of the bones or to relax the tissues.
- Strain-Counterstrain - Also called the Positional Release where the body is put in the posture where there is minimal tension. This usually brings rapid alleviation of pain and allows the body to heal and recover its strength.
- General Osteopathic technique - It is a rhythmic technique where the body part is put under mild tension and oscillated to bring about relaxation.
Visceral normalization
Many times the primary source of physical pain is in faulty position or movement of an organ. Through the skillful application of these techniques Osteopath can influence the structure of the organ and thus restore its optimal functioning.
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