Osteopathy is a natural treatment utilised to treat a range of ailments and conditions, including osteoporosis.  Natural therapies and treatments are increasingly respected for their effectiveness, lack of significant side effects and non-invasive nature.

What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is the gradual weakening of the bones, more specifically the structure of the bones, which become thin and liable to fracture.  It is difficult to detect, and is usually only evident in a scan.  Sufferers often discover they have the condition after fracturing a bone which fails to heal as quickly as expected.  Women who have experienced the menopause are also at greater risk of osteoporosis as the hormonal changes lead to deficiencies in calcium levels in the body.  Calcium is crucial to ensure bone strength and hardness, and is incorporated into the bones after being absorbed into the bloodstream. Modern medicine has a range of drug treatments, including hormone replacement therapy (HRT) – while dietary modifications to enhance calcium intake, and exercise are other options. 

What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a non-invasive holistic treatment for the body that focuses on removing musculo-skeletal impediments, so the body and all its associated systems function harmoniously.  It utilises techniques similar to bodywork to stretch and manipulate the muscles, joints and skeleton; and ensures all these elements are functioning at their optimum.  Much of the discipline is focused on studying how each part of the body interacts with the other. Osteopaths treat a variety of disorders including back and neck pain, joint pain, repetitive strain injuries, sports injuries as well as osteoporosis.  Osteopathic techniques include, but are not limited to:

• Massage and manipulation
• Stretching
• Joint mobilisation
• Resistance procedures; and
• Deep pressure handwork
  

How Can Osteopathy Help Osteoporosis?

Osteopaths can be consulted for the treatment of osteoporosis, which can be especially beneficial for patients recovering from surgery or recuperating from a fracture.  Any treatment should be undertaken by a qualified practitioner, who is fully aware of your condition.  Any manipulation of the spine could have potentially critical consequences, and makes consulting an experienced osteopath essential.

Ensure your osteopath is qualified and registered with an appropriate national association.  This will ensure they have the necessary qualifications, and are in possession of all the relevant indemnity and insurance cover. 

Find out about other effective natural osteoporosis treatments.