(Complex Regional Pain Syndrome) Prolonged inflammation and pain?
What is cranial osteopathy?
In the UK, we know osteopathy as an allied healthcare profession. Cranial osteopathy is a branch of osteopathy which osteopaths who are interested can specialise in. Although the principles and objectives of osteopathy and cranial osteopathy are the same, there are few very important differences to consider. Firstly, cranial osteopaths have a very well-developed sense of touch which is required for them to be able to feel the flow of the fluids of the body. This is essential for the cranial osteopath to help to develop a working hypothesis. And secondly, during the treatments cranial osteopaths tend to have a very gentle and quiet static treatment in comparison to other osteopaths.
What to expect during the cranial osteopathy treatment?
You can expect your osteopath to start the consultation with a subjective assessment, meaning that you will be asked several questions regarding your presentation which will help an osteopath to develop a physical examination plan. This will be the next step where your osteopath will most likely do some postural observation and proceed to a hands on examination. During the hands on examination you can expect your osteopath to place his/her hands on your head, spine or sacral area, which is the lowest part of your back. Once the physical examination is complete, your osteopath will discuss the findings with you and suggest an appropriate treatment plan which will be delivered only with your consent. The treatment itself will feel very light and gentle.
What is the complex regional pain syndrome?
It is a prolonged inflammation and pain, which in some cases can be debilitating. Complex Regional Syndrome is caused by improper function of a certain group of nerve fibres which carry the pain signal to the brain. It mainly affects an arm or a leg due to increased sensitivity of the skin of the affected area. Complex regional pain syndrome can occur after a trauma or an injury such as a fracture or an operation. Also, it can be a result of a stroke or a heart attack.
What are the symptoms of complex regional syndrome?
Mainly, it is a disproportionately intense pain in the affected area. Pain can be triggered with the lightest of touches and even change in the temperature of the surrounding area. Moreover, the affected area can also become stiff, experience changes in colour and temperature and swell up. The severity of symptoms may vary between individuals.
How can cranial osteopath help with complex regional pain syndrome?
It is suggested that physical therapy alongside occupation therapy are key factors in recovering from complex regional pain syndrome. Although there is no strong evidence suggesting that cranial osteopathy can be effective when treating this condition, our opinion is that it is definitely worth a try, particularly if you already tried various other alternative therapy approaches without a desirable outcome. As mentioned above, cranial osteopathy is a very gentle treatment which could be great, particularly if the affected area is extremely sensitive to any pressure or exercise. This can help you to reduce the sensitivity of the area and help you to progress further into your rehabilitation.
For further information or contact an osteopath visit: https://www.osteopathy.org.uk/home/
We hope this information is useful for you. If you need advice or have any questions about our treatments, please contact us. You can find us in Mill Hill Broadway and Islington. We are always happy to help. If you like this blog, please share!
References:
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1002/ejp.1976
https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/s40122-021-00279-4.pdf?pdf=button
