The Truth About Osteopathy: Unlocking Better Health for Singaporeans

What Is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a gentle, hands-on approach to improving your health by enhancing the body’s natural healing capabilities. Trained professionals, known as osteopaths, focus on manipulating your body’s structure—muscles, joints, and bones—to help alleviate pain, promote better blood flow, and improve mobility. This holistic method supports your body’s own mechanisms to heal and balance itself.

Here’s an important statistic: In Singapore, the number of bone fractures from osteoporosis is projected to rise sharply. From 15,267 cases in 2017, it’s expected to increase to 24,104 by 2035—a near 58% jump. This statistic highlights the growing need to focus on bone health as we age. Visiting a licensed osteopath can be a key step in maintaining your overall health and preventing future injuries.

How Does Osteopathy Work?

Osteopathy, originating from the Greek words for “bone” and “disease,” uses skilled, hands-on techniques to enhance your body’s ability to move freely and without pain. By fine-tuning the alignment of joints and easing muscle tension, osteopaths improve not only your mobility but also your circulation. This boost in blood and lymph fluid flow is crucial for immune function and reducing swelling, facilitating quicker recovery from ailments.

This approach integrates the health of your muscles and bones with your overall well-being, offering a comprehensive method to maintain an active, healthy lifestyle naturally—without relying on medications or invasive procedures typically associated with conventional medicine. Whether you’re dealing with everyday stress or chronic conditions, osteopathy provides a natural alternative that promotes improved health and comfort, setting it apart from conventional medical treatments.

Osteopathy Benefits

Osteopathy offers several important health benefits:

Easier Movement: Helps ease joint and muscle pain, making it easier to move around and reducing ongoing issues with movement.
Pain Reduction: Directly addresses and lessens long-term pain using gentle techniques.
Better Blood Flow and Healing: Enhances the flow of blood to various parts of the body, helping improve healing and the distribution of essential nutrients.
Reduced Muscle Tension: Helps relax muscles and reduce stress and anxiety, which contributes to a calmer and more relaxed mental state.
Improved Sleep: Helps you sleep deeper and more peacefully by easing pain and tension.
Better Posture: Corrects body alignment, which is especially beneficial for people who sit or stand for long periods.
Comfort During Pregnancy: Eases common pregnancy-related discomforts like back pain by adjusting the body’s alignment.
Natural and Gentle: Uses non-invasive techniques without drugs or surgery, making it safe for all ages.
Preventive Care: Regular treatments can help avoid injuries and manage long-term health issues by keeping your musculoskeletal system healthy. This is especially useful for athletes.
Overall Health Support: Aims to improve general well-being by addressing issues early on and providing advice on long-term health practices.

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Osteopathy Techniques

Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM)

Includes gentle hands-on methods like stretching and massaging to manipulate body tissues.

Cranial Osteopathy

Soft and careful adjustments to the bones of your head and spine with light touches.

Structural Osteopathy

Straightens the body’s framework using relaxing massage and gentle stretching.

Visceral Osteopathy

Adjusts the internal organs in the body’s main cavities, particularly the abdomen (visceral refers to these internal organs, like the liver, kidneys, and intestines), to help them function properly and comfortably.

Paediatric Osteopathy

Soft, gentle methods designed specifically for infants and children, promoting healthy growth and comfort.

Postnatal Osteopathy

Involves gentle, hands-on techniques to support recovery and realign the body after childbirth, focusing on structural balance.

Spinal Manipulation

Specific, controlled forces applied to the joints of the spine to aid in proper alignment.

Soft Tissue Massage Techniques

Various massage methods focusing on muscle relaxation and stretching.

Functional Techniques

Uses the body’s natural reactions for subtle, guiding adjustments to enhance physical alignment.

Taping Techniques (including Sports Taping)

Special tape applied to support joints and muscles, stabilising them during movement.

Dry Needling

Thin needles placed into targeted muscle areas to help relieve muscle tension.

Articulation

Moves joints through their natural range of motion to enhance joint function.

Stretching Muscles and Joint Capsules

Performs smooth movements to increase flexibility of muscles and joint capsules (protective sacs around joints that help stabilise and lubricate them).

Chapman’s Reflexes

Targets specific reflex points on the body. Named after Frank Chapman, an osteopath who identified these points in the early 20th century as related to various bodily functions.

High Velocity Low Amplitude Thrusting (HVLA)

Rapid, controlled thrusts used to improve the mobility of joints, especially in the spine.

Joint Mobilisation

Gently moves joints within their natural range to promote smoother movement.

Osteoarticular Technique

“Osteoarticular” refers to the joints and bones, focusing on their structure and function. This technique addresses their structure and function through manual adjustments.

Muscle Energy Techniques (MET)

Mild muscle contractions used to influence muscle and joint interactions.

Fascia Pulling

Targets the fascia (layer of connective tissue that surrounds muscles and organs), pulling and stretching this connective tissue to address its arrangement.

Still Technique

Combines gentle force with specific positioning to address areas of tightness and ensure proper alignment of body structures.

Shockwave Therapy

Uses sound waves to stimulate healing in injured tissues.

Osteopathy Procedure

We’ve put together this section to make sure you feel fully prepared and comfortable during your osteopathy sessions. Our goal is to make every step of your treatment as beneficial and reassuring as possible, just for you.

Before the Procedure

Share Your Medical History: We’ll need details of any past health issues, including any scans like MRIs or lists of medications you’re taking. This helps us customise your treatment.
Eat Lightly: Have something light to eat before you come in. It helps prevent any discomfort during the session.
Dress Comfortably: Wear something loose and comfy to make it easier for you to move and for us to work effectively.
Arrive Early: Come a bit early to settle in, relax, and discuss any last-minute questions you might have.

During the Procedure

Initial Check-Up: We’ll start by reviewing your health history and give you a quick physical exam to see what we’re working with.
Understand Your Treatment: We’ll explain what we find and how we plan to help you. Feel free to ask any questions if something isn’t clear!
Treatment Session: You’ll experience various hands-on techniques focusing primarily on key areas that need attention.
Customised Care Plan: We’ll give you tailored advice on exercises and lifestyle changes that could help you further.
Referrals: If there’s a need for more specialised care, we might refer you to a GP or for additional tests.
Privacy and Comfort: We respect your privacy. You can choose to keep on some clothing, and if it makes you feel more comfortable, have someone with you during the treatment.

After the Procedure

Expect Some Soreness: It’s normal to feel a bit sore—it means you’re adjusting. Don’t worry; the soreness won’t last beyond a few days.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water. It helps cleanse your body and eases the soreness.
Eat After Treatment: Have a good meal after your session to boost your energy back up.
Rest: Give yourself a break. Avoid any heavy lifting or strenuous activity to let your body heal.
Skin Care: If you feel tender spots, a gentle balm can be soothing.
Monitor Your Body: Keep an eye out for any unusual changes and don’t hesitate to call us if something feels off.
Follow-Up: Based on how you respond, we’ll tweak your treatment plan to make sure it’s as effective as possible.

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Conditions Osteopathy Can Treat

Pain Management

Neck Pain: Techniques like massage and stretching improve spinal mobility and relieve tension, enhancing posture and reducing pain.
Back Pain: Specific methods focus on alleviating discomfort and increasing mobility in the lower back.
Foot, Knee, Hip, and Ankle Pain: Gentle manipulation of joints and tissues enhances movement, reduces inflammation, and alleviates pain. Here, integrating podiatry can be especially beneficial, as podiatrists specialise in conditions affecting the foot and ankle, complementing osteopathic treatments.
Sciatica (pain from the lower back to the leg caused by nerve compression): Decreases inflammation and increases mobility, easing nerve pain.
Muscle and Joint Pain from Daily Activities: Addresses discomfort from repetitive activities, improving overall musculoskeletal health.
Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) (jaw joint pain and dysfunction): Relieves jaw pain by addressing muscle tension and joint alignment.

Headaches and Neurological Issues

Headaches: Improves circulation and mobility in the neck and head to reduce pain and frequency of tension headaches (mild to moderate headaches often felt like a tight band around the head).
Migraines: Specific techniques help alleviate symptoms, improving comfort and reducing attacks.
Neuralgia (sharp, stabbing nerve pain): Techniques to calm the nerves and ease pain through movement and stretching.
Vertigo (a sensation of spinning or dizziness): Spinal realignment and improved blood flow to the inner ear help reduce symptoms.

Chronic Conditions

- Arthritis (condition that causes joint pain, swelling, and stiffness): Enhances joint mobility and reduces inflammation to improve daily function.
- Fibromyalgia (widespread pain and tenderness): Focuses on enhancing movement and comfort through gentle therapies.
- Osteoporosis (a condition where bones become weak and fragile): Gentle stretches and massage improve bone density and reduce fracture risk.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Common digestive disorder characterised by symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and irregular bowel movements.

Wellness and Recovery

Chronic Pain Management: Regular visits to osteopaths help manage chronic pain and maintain wellbeing.
Sports-related Injuries and Rehabilitation: Prevention, performance enhancement, and recovery through osteopathic techniques.
Pre and Post-surgical Rehabilitation: Prepares the body for surgery and aids in recovery through gentle techniques.
Pregnancy Discomforts: Aligns the pelvis and spine to ease back pain and sciatica during pregnancy.
Digestive Disorders: Improves gut mobility and function to alleviate issues like bloating and constipation.

Musculoskeletal Injuries

Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI): Reduces strain from repetitive tasks, improving function.
Plantar Fasciitis (heel pain from tissue inflammation): Enhances foot comfort and mobility.
ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) Tears (knee ligament injury): Improves knee stability and mobility.
Tennis Elbow/Golfer’s Elbow: Relieves pain from overuse of arm and forearm muscles.
Tendonitis (inflammation of a tendon): Reduces inflammation and enhances joint mobility through gentle techniques.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (nerve compression in the hand): Improves hand function and alleviates discomfort.

Other Specific Conditions

Asthma (chronic respiratory condition): Increases chest mobility to ease breathing difficulties.
Colic in Babies (severe abdominal pain due to gas or obstruction): Enhances digestion and reduces tension, alleviating discomfort.
Depression: Boosts mood and energy through relaxation techniques and improved blood flow.
Fatigue: Enhances overall energy and wellbeing through improved circulation and relaxation techniques.
Sleep Apnea: Research shows that special gentle treatments by osteopaths can help babies under four months old breathe easier while sleeping.
Glue Ear (fluid buildup in the middle ear, causing hearing issues): Helps drain fluid to reduce pressure and discomfort.
Scoliosis (abnormal sideways curvature of the spine): Manages spinal curvature through alignment techniques.

Osteopathy Complementary Treatments

In addition to osteopathy, several complementary treatments can enhance your overall health and well-being:

Chiropractic

Chiropractic adjusts the spine to improve alignment. Complements osteopathy by focusing on muscles, bones, and joints, helping reduce pain and improve mobility.

Stretch Therapy

Stretch therapy involves exercises to make muscles more flexible and less tight, enhancing the effectiveness and longevity of osteopathic adjustments.

Functional Wellness

Functional wellness focuses on diet, exercise, and lifestyle to improve overall health, making the body more responsive to osteopathic treatments.

Spinal Decompression

Spinal decompression gently stretches the spine to relieve pressure on the discs (cushion-like pads between the bones in your spine), particularly addressing back pain and enhancing overall comfort and effectiveness of osteopathy.

Clinical Pilates

Strengthens core muscles, improves posture, and enhances flexibility. Complements osteopathy by providing targeted exercises that support structural adjustments and promote long-term musculoskeletal health.

Physiotherapy

Uses exercises and manual therapy to restore movement after injury or illness. Physiotherapy complements osteopathy by using targeted exercises and manual therapy to enhance the benefits of osteopathic treatments, improving mobility, reducing pain, and accelerating recovery for a more comprehensive approach to patient care.

Lymphatic Drainage Massage

The lymphatic system is a network of vessels and glands spread throughout your body, similar to the circulatory system for blood. It plays a crucial role in your immune system, helping to remove waste, bacteria, and other unwanted materials. It also transports lymph fluid which contains infection-fighting white blood cells. Lymphatic drainage massage helps stimulate this system, promoting a healthier body by enhancing the flow of lymph fluid.

This massage supports osteopathy by reducing inflammation and promoting detoxification (process of removing toxins from the body).

Osteopathy vs Acupuncture

Osteopathy is a manual therapy focusing on the entire body’s structure and function, while acupuncture uses needles to target specific points to balance the body’s energy and relieve pain.

Osteopathy vs Chiropractic

Osteopathy involves a range of techniques including massage and joint mobilisation, focusing on treating the whole body. Chiropractic primarily concentrates on spinal adjustments to improve spinal alignment and nerve function.

Osteopathy vs Physiotherapy

Osteopathy uses manual therapy like stretching to treat the body holistically. Physiotherapy focuses more on exercise and rehabilitation techniques to specifically aid recovery and enhance mobility, often after injuries.

Osteopathy Risks

- Safe Practice: Osteopathy is typically very safe when performed by a qualified practitioner.
- Feeling After Treatment: It’s normal to feel a bit stiff or sore for a day or two, just like after a good workout. You might also have a mild headache.
- Allergies: Let your therapist know about any allergies you have, so they can avoid using certain oils or lotions.
- Bone Health: If you have osteoporosis or fragile bones, mention it to your therapist as treatments are adjusted to ensure your safety.
- Rare Risks: Nerve damage is very rare but can happen.
- Elder Care: If you’re older, especially with brittle bones, treatments are carefully tailored to prevent issues like severe pain or fractures.

Serious Side Effects to Watch For:

- Stroke: Extremely rare, but immediate medical help is needed if it occurs.
- Prolapsed Disk (Slipped disk pressing on nerves in the spine): If you experience unusual spine pain, it’s important to check it out.
- Radiating Pain: Pain that spreads could need closer examination.
- Muscle Weakness, Bladder or Bowel Control Issues: These are very rare but important to address quickly.
- Being Prepared: Knowing what to expect can make your treatment smoother. Always feel free to talk to your osteopath about any concerns you might have. They’re there to help you feel better.

Osteopathy Complications

Soreness: It’s common to feel mild soreness or discomfort after treatment, but this usually goes away within a few days.
Fatigue: The treatment might make you feel tired; resting afterwards is recommended.
Headaches: Some people may get headaches following a session due to changes in how blood flows or from muscle tension, but these generally don’t last long.
Rare Complications: In rare cases, serious complications can occur, especially with spinal manipulation. This includes the risk of tearing an artery wall in the neck, which can lead to a stroke. While very uncommon, such events can result in permanent disability. However, these risks are extremely rare, and practitioners take great care to minimise any potential dangers.

Cost of Osteopathy in Singapore

Average Cost: Osteopathy sessions in Singapore typically range from SGD 120 to SGD 190.

Factors Influencing Cost: The final cost may depend on the practitioner’s expertise, the clinic’s location, and the specific treatments required.

Are There Subsidies For Osteopathic Treatment in Singapore?

Currently, there are no specific Ministry of Health (MOH) subsidies for osteopathic treatments in Singapore. Patients may need to rely on private health insurance providers or out-of-pocket payments. Natrahea understands that managing healthcare costs can be challenging, and we’re here to help. Explore financial alternatives with us to find a solution that fits your needs.

Choosing the Right Osteopathic Physician

Trusted Choice: When a place gets lots of love online, it’s usually a sign they’re doing great work.
Years of Service: A clinic that’s been around for a long time has a wealth of experience to help you feel your best.
Positive Outcomes: If most people say they’ve found relief, it means their methods are likely to help.
Accessible Locations: Having clinics in many spots means getting help is convenient, no matter where you are.
Whole-Person Health: A team that looks at all parts of your life to help you heal is what holistic care is all about.

Why Choose Natrahea Guo Tai For Osteopathy?

Guo Tai TCM is a holistic healthcare centre in Singapore that seamlessly blends ancient Chinese medicine with modern technology. Here are some key points about Guo Tai TCM:

Tailored Care Plans: Guo Tai TCM offers personalised care plans uniquely tailored to each customer. These plans combine the wisdom of traditional Chinese medicine with advancements in Western medical technology. The goal is to balance Qi (energy) and rejuvenate the body.
Non-Invasive and Effective: Their treatments are non-invasive, pain-free, and free from drugs or surgery. Guo Tai TCM prioritises natural healing methods that promote overall well-being.
Exclusive TCM Physiotherapy Equipment: Guo Tai TCM provides access to advanced TCM physiotherapy equipment, which is unique to Southeast Asia. This allows for targeted and effective treatments.
Eco-Friendly Approach: The institution aims to be intelligent and eco-friendly, emphasising sustainable practices in healthcare.
World-Class Training and Resources: Guo Tai TCM offers world-class physiotherapy training and resources from top medical institutions.
Enhancing Radiance and Inner Beauty: Guo Tai TCM believes that a healthy body enhances inner beauty. Their approach focuses on holistic well-being, combining traditional techniques with modern insights.
Location: You can find Guo Tai TCM at 111 Somerset Rd, #03-29, TripleOne Somerset, Singapore 2381641.

Remember, Guo Tai TCM’s commitment lies in prioritising your health and well-being through natural and effective methods. 🌟

Osteopathy Before and After

To view our customer’s testimonials and obtain your diagnosis, we’d like to invite you to a chat with us. Simply Whatsapp +65 8138 6088 to get started. 😊

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Hear What Our Satisfied Customers Have to Say

At the time of writing, Guo Tai TCM has an average Google review rating of 4.8★. Here’s what some of our customers have to say:

FAQs

1. Is Osteopathy Safe?

Yes, osteopathy is very safe when performed by an osteopath registered with Allied Health Professions Council (AHPC), a regulatory board under MOH.

2: Is Osteopathy Painful?

No, osteopathy isn’t painful. While some techniques might cause brief discomfort, they are generally gentle and can be adjusted based on how comfortable you are.

3. How Many Osteopathy Sessions Will I Need?

The number of sessions varies depending on your specific condition and how you respond to treatment, ranging from a few sessions to regular maintenance.

4. How Long is an Osteopathy Session?

An osteopathy session typically lasts between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your specific needs and the treatment plan your osteopath has tailored for you.

5. How Often Should I Visit an Osteopath?

It depends on your health needs—some might need weekly sessions for acute issues, while others may visit less often for ongoing maintenance.

6. What Should I Wear For My Osteopathy Sessions?

Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy movement. Avoid heavy or restrictive garments. You might need to remove clothing from the area being treated, so consider wearing undergarments or shorts you’re comfortable in.

7. Can I Take a Bath After Osteopathy Treatment?

Yes, you can take a bath after osteopathy treatment, but it’s best to wait a few hours. Avoid very hot water as it can increase inflammation in the treated areas, potentially slowing down your recovery process. Cooler water can help soothe and reduce any residual soreness.

8. What Foods Should I Eat To Maximise the Benefits From Osteopathy?

To maximise the benefits from osteopathy, focus on a balanced diet rich in calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D. Include foods like leafy greens, dairy products, fatty fish, nuts, and seeds. For tailored advice that complements your osteopathic care, consider consulting a nutritionist. This can ensure your diet supports your overall health and treatment goals.

Osteopathy Origins

Osteopathy originated in the 19th century (1874). Its development was heavily influenced by Dr. Andrew Taylor Still’s experiences as a Civil War field surgeon, where he observed the limitations of traditional medical practices in treating musculoskeletal injuries. This exposure led him to explore alternative methods, ultimately shaping his holistic approach to healing through structural adjustments.

Osteopathic Philosophy

Holistic Healthcare: Focuses on the body’s innate ability to heal itself.
Whole-body Approach: Treats the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of patients for comprehensive care.

4 Core Principles:

The body is a cohesive unit.
The body possesses self-regulation and self-healing capabilities.
Structure and function are reciprocally interrelated.
Rational treatment is based on understanding these principles.

Patient-centred Care: Emphasises treating the whole person, not just the symptoms.

Medical References

Bordoni, Bruno. “The Benefits and Limitations of Evidence-based Practice in Osteopathy.” Curēus, Nov. 2019, doi:10.7759/cureus.6093.

Grolaux, Pascal J. D., et al. “Traditional Osteopathy and the General Osteopathic Treatment: A Historical Concept and a Modern Application.” The AAO Journal, vol. 31, no. 4, Dec. 2021, pp. 39–46, doi:10.53702/2375-5717-31.4.39.

Potekhina, Yu. P., et al. “Osteopathy Is a New Medical Specialty. Assessment of Clinical Effectiveness of Osteopathic Manipulative Therapy in Various Diseases.” Medicinskij Vestnik Severnogo Kavkaza, vol. 13, no. 3, Jan. 2018, doi:10.14300/mnnc.2018.13105.