Structural Osteopathy is one of the most important parts of Osteopathy and primarily focuses on solving problems related to the musculoskeletal system (bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and fascia).
Using manipulations, the osteopath not only relieves pain and symptoms but also eliminates the cause of the pain.
The osteopath has a deep knowledge of the anatomy and proper biomechanical function of all the joints in the human body.
This allows them to accurately identify whether there are blockages or tensions and, considering all the individual characteristics of the patient, if they are the source of the pain.
During the assessment, the osteopath identifies the area or joint that limits mobility and creates tension in the tissues.
Structural Osteopathy is a part of osteopathic treatment. Structural techniques target the neurological, joint, and muscle-tendon structures. They aim to restore proper functionality.
Structural Osteopathy is applied in the case of:
- Back pain
- Sciatica
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Tennis elbow
- Swimmer’s shoulder
- Shoulder pain
- Cervical headache
- Piriformis syndrome
- Text neck
- Herniated disc
- Pubalgia
- Hip pain
- Plantar fasciitis
- Patellar tendinopathy
- Neck pain
- Muscle injury
Structural osteopathy is highly effective in preventing musculoskeletal injuries or pain. It helps in recovery after physical activity or intense efforts.
Frequently, after an accident or injury, the body loses its full range of motion. Thanks to structural techniques, it is often possible to improve mobility, thereby restoring a new functional balance.
Usually, when we think of structural osteopathy, we refer to HVLA techniques (high velocity, low amplitude). These techniques, also known as thrusts or spinal manipulations, are the most common in the osteopathic field.
The use of these techniques involves manipulating a joint with high speed and low amplitude. Their goal is to restore the nerve signal, providing a new neurological input. Often, you may hear a joint pop, which is the effect of the manipulation.
The noise is caused by gas forming within the synovial fluid that surrounds and protects the joint. With the manipulation, this gas is released, and you hear the “crack.”
