Ortho-Bionomy is a bodywork technique created in the 1970s by British osteopath Dr Arthur Lincoln Pauls. This therapy is used to promote wellbeing and to assist the relieving of pain and restrictions that may be caused by injuries, postural imbalances, stress-related problems and structural problems. Ortho-Bionomy is based on techniques found in judo, homoeopathy and osteopathy and is designed to be gentle. In addition to practitioner-based exercises and corrections, a person can also practise some self-care exercises to assist in the everyday management of their condition.
Ortho-Bionomy is suitable for both the novice and the professional and, because it is so gentle, it is suitable for all age groups.
What Ortho-Bionomy Is About
Ortho-Bionomy is a postural re-education program that teaches the body to activate its self-correcting patterns of movement so that it can maintain structural balance and function as well as possible. Some techniques used in this therapy include joint compressions, gentle movements and the use of preferred positions. These are all designed to stimulate the body's natural self-healing processes and self-corrective reflex. Because Ortho-Bionomy supports the body's natural healing process, it is a safe option to surgery and other invasive procedures that are not necessarily required.
Conditions That Can Be Treated by Ortho-Bionomy
Ortho-Bionomy is a natural healing modality that anyone can use to promote health and wellbeing. Ortho-Bionomy practitioners all over the world have helped hundreds of thousands of people find pain relief, regain range of movement they did not know was possible, improve mental acuity and increase athletic capabilities. Ortho-Bionomy can help with a wide range of chronic issues and conditions, amongst others:
- joint pain, restriction or dysfunction
- muscle pain or injury
- repetitive strain injuries
- whiplash
- chronic back and neck pain
- frozen shoulder
- knee pain
- migraines
- carpal tunnel syndrome
- rotator cuff injuries
- curvatures of the spine
- leg length discrepancies
- rehabilitation after surgery
- poor sleep patterns
- thyroid imbalances
- depression
- stress-related problems
- poor posture
Ortho-Bionomy is especially beneficial for individuals who have had an invasive medical treatment or operation, such as a knee replacement or cancer treatment, but it can help anybody who wants to heal from pain or enhance their overall health.
The Treatment Process
An Ortho-Bionomy treatment is designed to be non-invasive and clients are usually fully clothed throughout a session. The emphasis is on the comfort of the client. Work may be performed on a massage table, or with the client sitting or standing. This is a cooperative therapy in that the client and the practitioner work together.
After the intake interview, the practitioner and client will proceed with the treatment session which takes place on a massage table. A typical session may include any of the following: positional release techniques, range of motion exploration, posture exercises, lymphatic work, energy movements, isometrics and isotonic techniques, and subtle physical movements.
A typical treatment session lasts for around an hour, and clients generally undergo anywhere from two to four sessions with a practitioner before an ongoing program of self-care is prescribed. However, the number of sessions required depends on the severity of a person's condition. Sessions are usually held weekly.
Ortho-Bionomy and Other Treatments
Ortho-Bionomy can be used as a stand-alone modality or with modern medicine or other complementary therapies to reinforce the existing treatment that the client may be receiving. It should not be used as a replacement for primary treatment protocols for urgent medical conditions such as a broken bone; however, once the urgency has passed, it can be used to help rehabilitate the body. Ortho-Bionomists work closely with a variety of healthcare professionals, including physical therapists and physicians, to avoid any negative interaction or side effects from occurring. Ortho-Bionomy also allows for an individualised approach that can be modified as needed by the patient.
Ortho-Bionomy therapy is often combined with chiropractic care, acupuncture, massage and yoga. Its effectiveness makes it one of the most requested complementary therapies to date.
Whether you aspire to improve postural balance, treat chronic muscle tension or achieve ease of movement, attending Ortho-Bionomy sessions in accredited treatment centres and mastering the self-corrective processes prescribed by your practitioner will guarantee long-lasting changes. You can also receive individual sessions in the comfort of your own home.
Originally published on May 21, 2007
