By Laurie Melrose-Doering, Osteopath & Applied Kinesiologist
In the realm of women’s health, the gentle touch of osteopathy unveils transformative possibilities. Addressing musculoskeletal concerns, it provides relief and vitality. From supporting menstrual health to pregnancy care and postpartum recovery, osteopathy is a holistic ally.
It contributes to hormonal balance, stress reduction, and optimal musculoskeletal health, fostering a profound sense of well-being for women at every life stage.
Osteopathy can assist herbal medicine or acupuncture in providing relief from dysmenorrhea (painful periods) by improving pelvic alignment and mobility.
Osteopaths use techniques such as soft tissue manipulation to enhance blood flow and alleviate muscle tension and spasms that often contribute to menstrual discomfort. By improving the structural alignment of the pelvis, osteopathy helps reduce the strain on muscles and ligaments, easing menstrual pain.
A study published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies found that osteopathic treatments significantly reduced menstrual pain and improved the quality of life for women with dysmenorrhea. The techniques used in osteopathy help relax the muscles and improve circulation, reducing the severity of menstrual cramps.
Pregnancy brings significant changes to a woman’s body, leading to issues such as back pain, sciatica, and pelvic discomfort. Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) can help manage these pains by ensuring the body is aligned and balanced as it changes.
Techniques such as gentle stretching, soft tissue massage, and joint articulation improve overall comfort and potentially ease the birthing process by maintaining proper alignment and reducing musculoskeletal stress.
Research in the Journal of the American Osteopathic Association highlighted that OMT during pregnancy can reduce back pain and improve function, making it a beneficial therapy for expecting mothers. By maintaining proper alignment and reducing musculoskeletal stress, osteopathy can help pregnant women experience a more comfortable pregnancy.
After childbirth, a woman’s body needs to recover and return to its pre-pregnancy state. Osteopathy can aid in this transition by addressing conditions such as postural changes, pelvic floor weakness, and diastasis recti (separation of the abdominal muscles).
Osteopaths use techniques to improve posture, strengthen the pelvic floor, and address muscle imbalances. Osteopathy is also very effective in treating the scar tissue following a Caesarean, which can lead to weak core strength.
A study in BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth found that postpartum osteopathic treatment helped improve recovery outcomes, particularly in addressing pelvic floor dysfunction and diastasis recti. Osteopathic treatments facilitate the healing of scar tissue and restore muscle strength and function.
Women suffering from chronic pain conditions, such as fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome, can benefit from osteopathic treatment. Osteopaths employ a range of techniques, including myofascial release, spinal manipulation, and stretching, to reduce pain, improve mobility, and increase blood circulation.
These techniques enhance the body’s natural healing processes and increase overall vitality and energy levels.
The Journal of Clinical Rheumatology reported that osteopathic treatments significantly reduced pain and improved quality of life in patients with fibromyalgia. By addressing the musculoskeletal components of chronic pain, osteopathy can help women manage their symptoms more effectively.
Women experiencing digestive issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or constipation, may find relief through osteopathic treatments. Osteopaths use techniques that focus on improving the mobility of the abdomen and regulating the nervous system.
By enhancing the mobility of the abdominal organs and reducing tension in the surrounding tissues, osteopathy can improve digestive function and alleviate symptoms.
Research in the International Journal of Osteopathic Medicine showed that osteopathic manipulative treatments improved symptoms of IBS, including abdominal pain and bloating. By enhancing abdominal mobility and nervous system function, osteopathy can support better digestive health.
When it comes to fertility challenges, osteopathy may serve as a complementary approach to traditional treatments (e.g., herbal medicine or acupuncture). Osteopaths improve pelvic blood flow and reduce any structural restrictions, creating an optimal environment for conception.
Techniques such as gentle pelvic manipulation and myofascial release help to improve the structural integrity of the reproductive organs. Moreover, reducing stress and improving overall physical and emotional well-being can also positively impact fertility.
A study in Reproductive BioMedicine Online found that osteopathic treatments improved pelvic blood flow and reduced stress, enhancing fertility outcomes for women undergoing fertility treatments. Osteopathy can thus play a crucial role in supporting women’s reproductive health.
Osteopathy promotes hormonal balance, alleviates menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats, and reduces joint and muscle pain. Techniques such as cranial osteopathy and gentle joint articulation enhance circulation, easing headaches and migraines commonly associated with menopause.
Through personalised treatment, osteopathy empowers women to navigate this natural process with greater comfort and ease.
The Journal of Women’s Health Physical Therapy reported that osteopathic treatments effectively reduced menopausal symptoms and improved overall well-being. By addressing the physical and hormonal changes during menopause, osteopathy helps women manage their symptoms more effectively.
Osteopathy intricately tailors care for women, addressing hormonal equilibrium, pain relief, and offering precise, holistic well-being solutions.
Whether it’s managing menstrual pain, supporting pregnancy, aiding postpartum recovery, treating chronic pain, improving digestive health, enhancing fertility, or managing menopause, osteopathy offers comprehensive support.
At Aston Clinic London, our osteopaths specialise in providing personalised care tailored to the unique needs of women at every life stage. We combine expert knowledge with a compassionate approach to ensure the best outcomes for our patients. Our treatments are designed to promote overall well-being, helping women lead healthier, more comfortable lives.
Many women have benefitted from our holistic osteopathic treatments, and we are dedicated to helping you achieve optimal health and vitality.
To book a session with our practitioners, click here. Alternatively, you can contact us at 020 8942 3148 to learn how our treatments can benefit you.
Aston Clinic London is a third-generation complementary health clinic located in New Malden, serving Kingston, Norbiton, Wimbledon, Raynes Park, Surbiton, Chessington, Worcester Park, Sutton, Richmond, and other areas of southwest London and Surrey.
By Laurie Melrose-Doering, Osteopath & Applied Kinesiologist
