Back and Neck Pain
Osteopathic manipulation performed by a qualified osteopathic physician (DO) focuses on the evaluation, treatment, and prevention of physical pain due to sports-related injuries, pregnancy, or any other cause. Treatment of neck, back, or other joint or muscle pain, as well as post-concussive symptoms are rooted in balancing the sympathetic (fight or flight) and parasympathetic (rest and digest) systems to return the body to its natural balance.
Evaluation and Assessment
Osteopathic practitioners assess individuals to determine their physical condition, identify any musculoskeletal issues, and evaluate their overall health. This involves a comprehensive physical examination and medical history review. Diagnostic tests like X-rays or MRIs may be recommended as well. Diagnostics are not typically ordered through our clinic, but if we feel they are needed, we will advise you where to go.
Treatment and Rehabilitation
After diagnosing injuries or conditions, osteopathic physicians use gentle, hands-on manipulation as a complement to exercise and physical therapy to help individuals and athletes recover and rehabilitate. Osteopathic specialists sometimes need to collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists, nutritionists, and athletic trainers, to provide comprehensive care.
While our emphasis is on non-surgical approaches to treatment, osteopathic practitioners can refer to orthopedic surgeons when surgery is necessary, and they can assist in post-operative healing when operative care becomes necessary.
Prevention and Injury Avoidance
Osteopathic specialists often work with individuals, athletes, and sports teams to develop injury prevention strategies. This may involve education about proper warm-up and cool-down techniques, recommending strength and conditioning programs, and providing guidance on injury-avoidance techniques. In addition to musculoskeletal issues, osteopathic practitioners can address general medical concerns in athletes, such as nutrition, hydration, and management of chronic conditions. They may also provide recommendations for safe training practices and lifestyle adjustments to optimize performance.
Osteopathic practitioners play a crucial role in keeping athletes and active individuals healthy, aiding in their recovery from injuries, and helping them achieve their peak performance while considering the holistic principles of osteopathic medicine.