Singapore’s Bone Setting Mastery: Unveiling the Secret to Pain Liberation

What is Bone Setting (跌打)?

Bone setting is a traditional practice focused on restoring proper alignment to bones and joints post-injury or dislocation. In Singapore, where 60% of occupational diseases from 2019 to 2021 were work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSD), totalling 1000 cases, bone setting offers a promising solution. By integrating traditional Chinese medicine, Guo Tai’s bone alignment and adjustment techniques are tailored to meet our clients’ needs. Explore our methods below and discover how we can help you live a healthier life.

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How Does a Broken Bone Heal?

Hematoma Formation: This initial stage involves the formation of a blood clot (hematoma) at the fracture site, which temporarily stabilises the bone and provides a matrix for new tissue growth.
Fibrocartilage Callus Formation: During this stage, soft callus (thickened skin from friction or pressure, protecting underlying tissue) made up of collagen and fibrocartilage (tough, shock-absorbing tissue found in joints and spine) forms around the fracture to bridge the broken bone ends.
Bony Callus Formation: The soft callus is gradually replaced by a hard bony callus, which is composed of new bone that begins to solidify the fracture.
Bone Remodelling: In the final stage, the newly formed bone is remodelled – essentially, the new bone reshapes itself to match the original bone’s form and function after an injury.

Common Bone Setting Techniques in Singapore

Embark on a journey through various bone-setting techniques. To find out which techniques you’re most suited for, contact the Guo Tai team.

Manual and Joint Manipulation

Using hands-on techniques, practitioners apply controlled pressure and precise forces to realign misaligned structures and adjust joints. This improves mobility and reduces discomfort, aligning bones and enhancing joint function.

Traction

This technique involves stretching the affected area to relieve pressure on joints or to help reset them, often used for conditions like dislocated joints or spinal misalignments.

Heat and Cold Therapy

Bone setters sometimes prepare muscles and joints for manipulation by using heat to relax muscles and cold to reduce inflammation, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the treatment.

Splinting or Bracing

In cases of severe injuries or fractures, splints or braces may be used to immobilise the affected area while it heals, ensuring stability and support during the recovery process.

Herbal Remedies

Use of herbal poultices, ointments, or oral medications to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and speed up the healing process. Examples include herbal wraps, herbal capsules, and herbal baths, with some traditional bone setting practices also applying topical herbal remedies.

Muscle Energy Techniques

Applying a combination of techniques according to the needs of the patient to achieve the desired results.

Bone Setting and Cracking Massages

Specialised massages in bone setting help relax muscles and adjust bones, sometimes causing a cracking sound from gas bubbles in the joints. These techniques reduce pain and improve movement and treatment effectiveness.

Bone Setting Procedure

Before the Procedure

Bone setting is completely carried out by hand and involves specialised techniques to address joint and muscle conditions.
It’s important to discuss any concerns or questions with your physician before the start of treatment.

During the Procedure

Procedure duration: typically 30 to 60 minutes.
Various techniques including gentle pressure, mobilisation, massage, and stretching are used to correct misalignments and restore function.
Patients are encouraged to communicate sensations or concerns during the session for a tailored treatment experience.

After the Procedure

Immediate relief from discomfort and improved mobility.
Regular follow-ups with the physician are recommended to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment.
It’s important to note that bone setting treatment is not a substitute for medical care or severe cases that require surgical intervention.

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Benefits of Bone Setting

Acute and Chronic Pain Relief: Can significantly relieve joint and muscle injuries, as well as chronic conditions like arthritis (joint inflammation causing pain, stiffness, and swelling) and back pain.
Promotes Natural Healing: Enhances the body’s own healing capabilities by manipulating bones and joints, supporting recovery without the need for invasive procedures or medication.
Reduces Headaches and Dizziness: By realigning bones and joints, bone setting can help alleviate headaches and dizziness often caused by tension or misalignment in the neck and spine.
Restores Alignment and Movement: Corrects misalignments and improves the movement of traumatised bones or joints. This reduces pain and enhances flexibility by increasing the elasticity and length of muscles, tendons, and ligaments, allowing for greater freedom of movement.
Reduces Inflammation and Stiffness: Decreases inflammation, swelling, and stiffness, aiding in quicker recovery and better mobility.

Conditions That Bone Setting Can Treat

Some conditions treated with bone setting are:

Chronic pain
Arthritis
Back pain
Leg length discrepancy arising from hip misalignment
Dislocations
Sprains
Neck stiffness and pain
Sciatica (Pain along the longest and widest nerve in the human body, affecting back, hip, and leg.)
Uneven shoulders and hips joint
Frozen shoulders
Herniated disc or slipped disc
Fractures
Headaches and migraines

How Does Bone Setting Differ From Chiropractic and Physiotherapy?

The table below allows you to quickly compare benefits across bone setting, chiropractic, and physiotherapy for informed healthcare decisions.

Comparison	Bone Setting	Chiropractic	Physiotherapy
Focus	Manual techniques to restore alignment and relieve pressure	Spinal and joint adjustments to improve nervous system function	Uses exercises and rehabilitation
Primary Benefits	Enhances joint mobility, reduces pain	Improves nervous system function, alleviates pain	Improves mobility, aids in recovery
Invasiveness	Less invasive compared to chiropractic	Often includes spine adjustments	Non-invasive, focuses on exercise
Combination with Other Treatments	Can be enhanced by combining with physiotherapy or chiropractic	Can be combined with physiotherapy or bone setting	Often combined with other treatments like bone setting or chiropractic
Potential Need for Surgery	Surgery may be necessary if misalignments are severe or do not respond to manual adjustment	Surgery may be necessary if adjustments fail to correct severe structural deformities	Surgery may be recommended for severe cases that do not respond to conservative treatment

Procedures Complementary to Bone Setting

Tui Na

Tui Na is a form of Chinese manipulative therapy frequently used alongside acupuncture, moxibustion, and cupping. It involves rhythmic compression along the body’s energy channels and various techniques to manipulate and lubricate the joints. Tui Na complements bone setting by manipulating and mobilising joints and energy channels, which helps in aligning bones and promoting faster recovery from skeletal misalignments.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medicine practice involving the insertion of thin needles into strategic points on the skin, known as acupoints. This technique promotes the body’s natural healing processes by enhancing the flow of energy (Qi) and alleviating pain. Acupuncture supports bone setting by promoting the body’s natural healing capabilities and reducing pain, which can be crucial for the recovery process in bone and joint injuries.

Cupping

Cupping is a therapeutic technique where cups are placed on the skin to create suction. This stimulation is believed to increase blood flow, relieve muscle tension, inflammation, and pain. Temporary marks on the skin may occur due to the suction. Cupping can complement bone setting by enhancing blood circulation and easing muscle tension around affected areas, which helps in the healing of bones and alleviates discomfort.

Gua Sha

Gua Sha is a traditional East Asian therapy that entails scraping the skin with a smooth-edged instrument. It aims to improve circulation and address issues like chronic pain and stiffness. Gua Sha aids bone setting by improving blood circulation and reducing stiffness and pain in muscles and joints, which supports the overall mobility and comfort necessary for effective bone healing.

Myofascial Release Therapy

Myofascial Release Therapy is a hands-on treatment that applies sustained pressure to myofascial connective tissue to eliminate pain and restore motion. It focuses on the muscle (myo) and the connective tissue (fascia) surrounding it. This therapy supports bone setting by relieving tension in the myofascial tissues surrounding bones, facilitating pain relief and improved motion, which are essential for healing bone structures.

Device Therapy

Device Therapy includes treatments using various medical or therapeutic devices such as TENS unit (short for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation, it’s a battery-powered device with electrodes that deliver electrical impulses through the surface of your skin), ultrasound therapy, and laser therapy. These devices complement manual therapies by reducing inflammation, promoting blood flow, and stimulating nerve functions. Device therapy aids bone setting by using devices that stimulate nerve functions, reduce inflammation, and promote blood flow, enhancing the healing environment for bone and joint recovery.

Moxibustion

Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine therapy involving the burning of moxa (dried plant materials) near the skin’s surface. It aims to warm and invigorate the flow of Qi in the body, dispelling certain pathogenic influences. Moxibustion complements bone setting by warming the body and boosting the flow of Qi, which helps in alleviating pain and speeding up the recovery process in bone-related therapies.

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Bone Setting Risks

Risks include injuries from improper techniques, exacerbation of pre-existing conditions, and potential infections or nerve damage, underscoring the need for treatment by qualified professionals. Natrahea’s specialists have been trained extensively and prioritise your health and safety, keeping such risks to a minimum. Contact us today to find out more!

Bone Setting Complications

Increased discomfort or acute pain post-treatment.
Temporary restriction in mobility due to adaptation.
Risk of recurring injuries if improperly done.
Rare cases of infections, inflammation, or tissue damage.

How Much Does Bone Setting Cost in Singapore?

Costs vary based on clinic location, specialist qualifications, and treatment complexity, generally ranging:
- Specialist consultation: SGD 75-100
- Bone setting session: SGD 150-200
- Follow-up consultation: From SGD 100

Are There Subsidies For Bone Setting in Singapore?

In certain cases, it can serve as an effective alternative to conventional orthopedic treatments like knee replacement surgery and spine replacement surgery.
No specific subsidies for traditional bone setting are mentioned in Singapore’s healthcare schemes.
Check with individual TCM clinics or insurance providers for possible coverage.

The Team of Bone Setting Specialists at Guo Tai

Experienced Team: Natrahea Guo Tai’s chiropractors have vast experiences and expertise in their treatment of patients.
Holistic Approach: We offer unparalleled care through a personalised, holistic approach using proven natural methods.
Safe and Effective: Guo Tai is committed to providing safe, proven, and effective holistic health solutions.
Comprehensive Consultation: We provide an in-depth health history examination, posture and gait examination, and full spine segmental examination.
Personalised Care Plan: We offer a personalised care plan for thorough and lasting recovery.

Finding a Bone Setting Clinic Near You in Singapore

Research Online: Use search engines with terms like “bone setting clinic near me” or “bone setting Singapore” for a quick list of nearby options.
Check Credentials: Ensure the clinic is operated by registered and experienced TCM physicians. You can check if a practitioner is verified via the TCMPB portal.
Location Convenience: Look for clinics that are conveniently located near MRT stations or your residence. This makes it easier for follow-up visits if needed.
Read Reviews: Check online reviews and testimonials from previous patients to gauge the quality of care and service.
Consultation: Contact the clinic to inquire about their bone setting techniques and whether they are suitable for your condition.
Consider Special Services: Some clinics offer additional services like house calls or dry cupping technology, which might be beneficial depending on your needs.

Remember, bone setting should not replace medical care for severe cases that require surgical intervention. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment.

Bone Setting Before and After Photos

To view our customer’s testimonials and obtain your diagnosis, we’d like to invite you to a chat with us. Simply Whatsapp +65 9325 0101 to get started. 😊

FAQs

1. Is Bone Setting Dangerous?

No, bone setting, when performed by trained professionals, isn’t inherently dangerous. However, without proper expertise, it can lead to complications or worsen injuries. Proper training and skill are crucial for safe and effective bone setting.

2. Is Bone Setting Painful?

Yes, bone setting can be uncomfortable or slightly painful, particularly if the misalignment is severe. However, skilled practitioners use techniques to minimise discomfort, making the process as pain-free as possible.

3. How Long Does Bone Setting Last?

The effects of a bone setting session can vary; however, many patients experience significant relief after just one session. Regular sessions may be needed for optimal long-term alignment and pain management.

4. How Often Should I Undergo Bone Setting to Maintain Benefits?

The frequency of sessions varies based on individual needs. Initially, more frequent sessions might be necessary, which could taper off as your condition improves. Discuss a tailored plan with your practitioner.

5. How Long Does a Bone Take to Set?

The duration for a bone to set can vary depending on the severity and location of the break, but typically, it takes about 6 to 8 weeks for a healthy adult. Healing times can be longer for more complex fractures or for older individuals.

6. What Happens if You Don't Set a Bone?

If a bone is not properly set, it can heal incorrectly, leading to misalignment, prolonged pain, and impaired function. This may necessitate surgical intervention to correct the deformity and restore proper function.

7. Are Bone Setting and Osteopathy the Same?

No, bone setting and osteopathy are not the same. Bone setting is a traditional practice focused on aligning dislocated joints and bones, whereas osteopathy is a regulated medical field that emphasises overall body health through various manual therapies.

8. Is Bone Setting Safe For Children and the Elderly?

Yes, when performed by a qualified practitioner, bone setting is safe for both children and the elderly. Adjustments are adapted to each individual’s age and specific health needs to ensure safety and effectiveness.

9. Is Bone Setting a Surgical Procedure?

No, bone setting is not considered surgery. It is a non-invasive manual therapy technique used in traditional Chinese medicine to realign misaligned bones and joints without surgical intervention.

Medical References

Adesina, S. A. et al. “Solid Locked Intramedullary Nailing for Expeditious Return of Bone-Setting-Induced Abnormal Fracture Union Victims to Work in South-Western Nigeria.” Scientific Reports, vol. 12, no. 1, 2022, https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-022-25862-3.

Avila, N. A. et al. “CT of Sclerotic Bone Lesions: Imaging Features Differentiating Tuberous Sclerosis Complex with Lymphangioleiomyomatosis from Sporadic Lymphangioleiomyomatosis.” Radiology, vol. 254, no. 3, 2010, pp. 851–857, https://doi.org/10.1148/radiol.09090227.

Dada, A., Yinusa, W., and Giwa, S. “Review of the Practice of Traditional Bone Setting in Nigeria.” African Health Sciences, https://www.ajol.info/index.php/ahs/article/view/68455.