Osteonordic Fulham

While both osteopaths and chiropractors use hands-on techniques to address musculoskeletal issues, their foundational philosophies and scope of practice differ. Osteopaths, particularly Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs), are fully licensed physicians who can diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, prescribe medication, and perform surgery, in addition to using manual therapy. Their approach is holistic, considering how the entire body’s systems interact. Chiropractors, on the other hand, primarily focus on the spine and nervous system, often using adjustments to correct misalignments. Their training is typically not as broad as that of a DO, and their scope of practice is generally limited to musculoskeletal conditions without the ability to prescribe medication or perform surgery.

A Doctor of Osteopathy, or DO, is a fully licensed medical doctor in many parts of the world, including the United States. They attend osteopathic medical schools where they receive comprehensive training in all aspects of medicine, including diagnosis, treatment, surgery, and prescribing medications. What distinguishes a DO is their additional training in osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT), a hands-on approach to care. This allows them to use techniques to diagnose and treat health problems by addressing the body’s structure, such as muscles, bones, and joints, believing that this can improve overall health and function. They emphasize a holistic view, considering the patient’s lifestyle and environment in their care.

After your osteopathic treatment session, it’s generally recommended to drink plenty of water to help with hydration and the body’s healing processes. You might feel some mild soreness or fatigue, which is a normal response as your body adjusts to the changes. Avoid strenuous activities immediately after treatment. Your osteopath may provide specific advice regarding posture, gentle exercises, or activities to support your recovery and maintain the benefits of the treatment.

Osteopathic treatment is generally not painful. While some techniques may involve gentle stretching or pressure on sensitive areas, which might cause mild discomfort, osteopaths work within your comfort levels. They use a variety of gentle, hands-on techniques designed to restore normal function and reduce pain. If you experience any pain or discomfort during a session, it’s important to communicate this to your osteopath immediately so they can adjust their approach.