Osteopathy
Osteopathy is a form of medicine that identifies and treats the primary cause of loss of mobility. The osteopath uses specific manual correction techniques aimed at restoring the mobility of joints, organs, connective tissue, and cranial bones.

 

Osteopathy is therefore a form of medicine that works both preventively and curatively, engaging and stimulating the body's natural response capabilities.

 

The Osteopathic Model

 

Osteopathy is based on the holistic concept that the human body is a single entity. The body consists of various systems that maintain mutual balance and has a natural ability to repair disruptions.

 

An accident, illness, surgery, stress, or poor eating habits can cause structures to become stuck, blocking energy. Loosening these structures is the specific area of ​​expertise of osteopathy.

 

Osteopathic Treatment

 

The osteopath works on the musculoskeletal system, which consists of joints, muscles, and capsules, as well as the head and organs. Because organs and cranial bones, just like muscles and joints, are subject to change. Cells are broken down, and new ones are created.

 

The osteopath is able to identify which organs, connective tissues, bones, nerves, or vertebrae have become less mobile. By restoring this mobility, these tissues can fully resume their function. 

 

For example, colic in babies can be caused by insufficient space in the birth canal at birth for their skull base. This can cause compression of a nerve or blood vessel. By gently treating the head and neck, the colic disappears.

 

The First Consultation

 

During the first consultation, the osteopath will want to know what the patient's current symptoms are, any previous symptoms, and what treatments they have already received. They will then examine the body for movement disorders. After the examination, the osteopath will explain their findings and what treatment they deem necessary. An evaluation will take place after three to four consultations.

 

Recognition

 

Osteopathy is a healthcare method supported by a growing body of scientific knowledge. It has a proven role in preventing, curing, and managing conditions or complaints.

 

Most health insurance policies cover osteopathy, either fully or partially. 

 

Paul Smolders has been an osteopath since 1996. Previously, he worked as a physiotherapist, primarily in elite sports.