S.O.S. Fibromyalgia!: Can Cranial Osteopathy help with it?
What is Fibromyalgia?
It is a condition where a person affected is experiencing widespread pain in his/her body. It is suggested that approximately 2%-4% of the population is experiencing fibromyalgia.
What causes fibromyalgia?
It is unclear what causes fibromyalgia. However, some associations are made to an experience of a significant trauma, illness or disease, and a loss of a loved one.
What are the symptoms of fibromyalgia?
The main symptoms of fibromyalgia is widespread pain all over the body. Also, a person can experience severe tiredness, inability to concentrate, headaches or migraines, and depression and anxiety. It is worth noting that one person might not experience all of the symptoms and that the severity of the symptoms vary significantly from person to person.
What is cranial osteopathy?
Osteopathy in general is recongnised as an allied health care profession in the UK. Cranial osteopathy is a branch which osteopaths can specialise in if and when they desire. Osteopathy and cranial osteopathy share the same principles and objectives which are to promote recovery, improve the quality of life and manage pain. However, there are some differences which are important to note. Firstly, Cranial osteopaths have a very well-developed sense of touch which they rely on when developing a working hypothesis and delivering the treatment. And secondly, the treatment is very gentle and relaxed in comparison to ‘normal’ osteopathy as manipulations and movement of the body is reduced to bare minimum.
How does cranial osteopathy work?
By utilising a well-developed sense of touch, cranial osteopaths are able to feel for muscle tension, restricted joint movement or bodily fluid flow just by placing their hands on the appropriate areas of the body. The areas examined are usually the head, spine and sacrum, which is the lowest part of your back.
Help with Fibromyalgia: What to expect during the treatment?
During your appointment with a cranial osteopath you will be asked some questions about your presentation firstly. This is very important for the osteopath when it comes to developing a physical examination plan. After questioning is complete, a physical examination will take place where your osteopath will make some observations and have a feel of certain areas of your body. Once this stage is complete, your osteopath will discuss the findings with you and suggest an appropriate treatment plan which will be delivered only with your consent.
How can cranial osteopathy help with fibromyalgia?
Unfortunately, when it comes to cranial osteopathy, the evidence suggesting its effectiveness or ineffectiveness is lacking at the moment. However, there is some evidence suggesting that osteopathic treatment in general can help with managing some of the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Also, because there is evidence suggesting that osteopathic treatment can help with fibromyalgia and is effective in management of the condition, we think that cranial osteopathy might also be helpful. In our opinion, the patients with fibromyalgia would not want to experience strong pressure and lots of movement of the body as it might cause further discomfort. With cranial osteopathy this is not the case as treatment is gentle and very relaxing, hence, we would encourage you to try it as it might just be the missing puzzle in your recovery.
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://www.painphysicianjournal.com/current/pdf?article=NzEyOA==&journal=130
