Pain

Pain is recognised as a warning that the body is in trouble in some way. But what directly causes it? Often which creates pressure on nerves. Osteopaths help reduce inflamed tissues and swelling by a number of methods, mostly manual, ranging from manipulation and movements of soft tissues to articulation of joints. This helps to reduce muscle spasm and swelling, increases mobility, helping to create a normal anatomical environment in which damaged tissues can heal as movement is essential for the drainage of swollen tissues, allowed by the Osteopath correcting the anatomy of the effected area.

Pain is normally a warning sign that something is wrong. It usually disappears when healing takes place. Healing may occur spontaneously but normally it needs a helping hand.

Early treatment by an osteopath may often prevent the development of more serious problems and of long-term, chronic pain which can be very debilitating because of permanent 'wear-and-tear' type damage.

The pain spiral

Pain can lead to depression. As one becomes depressed, muscles tighten and cause spasm. Muscle spasm leads to more pain which in turn deepens the depression...so beginning a debilitating downward spiral.

Rest and tissue repair take place during sleep, but many people find that chronic pain disturbs their sleep and the repair process is hindered.

Cortisol is a hormone used at times of suffering from pain as it has several beneficial effects but recent research has shown that the regulating system that controls its production can get locked into a vicious cycle. Cortisol can be harmful in prolonged high release causing problems with the immune system and sympathetic nervous system resulting in the unremitting pain and 'run down' state that some victims of chronic pain slide into.

The results of this long-term pain spiral may be devastating. Chronic pain sufferers may start to lose interest in life and their jobs and relationships, all adding to the burden of distress.

An Osteopath's helping hands

Osteopaths, with their deep knowledge of the neuro-musculoskeletal system, understand the underlying causes of pain. They take time to talk to patients, to understand lifestyle factors and, using their hands as a diagnostic tool, they are trained to locate the root of the problem which may be an injury well away from the site of the pain. Osteopaths are then able to use a repertoire of manual techniques to a great many painful conditions, from the perennial headache to sports and work-related injuries, from the stresses and strains of pregnancy to the aches and pains of the elderly.

Our consulting Physician can employ a range of conventional analgesic techniques from injection to oral and can be consulted directly by appointment or via referral from one of the other practitioners at the clinic.

Acupuncture can control pain powerfully, as in its' ability to be used instead of anaesthetic techniques in surgical proceedures, and our acupuncturist employs these techniques daily.

Consultation: appointment by telephone 01293 784200