Canberra Osteopathic Centre

About

Canberra Osteopathic Centre

Osteopathy is a philosophy which sees a dynamic relationship between the structure of the body and its function.

Osteopaths recognise that all body systems, including the musculoskeletal system, are interdependent. A disturbance in one causes altered function in other systems of the body. The osteopath seeks to understand and treat the bio-mechanical cause of symptoms.

We look at the body structure from head to feet and have an emphasis on palpatory diagnosis to identify “disturbed” structure. We recognise that every structure in the body is designed for motion, not just outwardly as in crawling, walking, running or jumping but also inwardly as in circulating blood, exchanging gases in breathing, digesting food, eliminating waste and in constantly adjusting the musculo-skeletal system to maintain a state of balance in the body with horizontally aligned eyes no matter what the activity we engage in. This is defined as the interrelationship between structure and function.

Children are considered in the context of osteopathic principles as briefly outlined above. Babies may be subject to strains resulting from pregnancy or labour, physical trauma, inflammatory diseases of the central nervous system. Childrens’ problems may be postural such as scoliosis, manifestations of brain dysfunction such as learning or behavioural problems as well as delayed intellectual or physical development, spasticity or uncontrollable motion caused by cerebral palsy.

Later in childhood, dental problems such as malocclusion, a high or narrow palate may become apparent. These conditions are directly related to the alignment of, and relationship to, the cranial bones and are often best treated in conjunction with an orthodontist who is familiar with the osteopathic approach.

The child's body is built exclusively from the food that he/she eats and drinks so emphasis is placed on whole natural foods to maintain optimum well being. Many foods have therapeutic value.

We recognise that the body is a dynamic unit of function. Low back problems may be the sequel to head injury; headaches may be traced to a trauma of the lower back. Other problems that may result from restricted motion in the musculo¬skeletal system (which includes the cranium) are functional disturbances of the gastro - intestinal tract, eustachian tube dysfunction leading to middle ear problems, poor co-ordination and visual disturbance.

We appreciate that within every child is an inherent healing force. As we identify and work with it, rather than superimpose our ideas upon it, the healing process is engaged and enhanced.