By the use of a finely tuned sense of touch, an osteopath chooses the most appropriate approach
In general there are two ways in which osteopaths will work to help to reduce pain and to improve bodily movement. First, by using a ‘Direct’ approach, and second, by using an ‘Indirect’ approach. A Direct approach challenges tight muscles and joints by pushing, pulling, or stretching. The Indirect approach moves the structures, or body parts, involved into a position of ease to create some space, or some ‘breathing room’. The use of both approaches varies between osteopaths, with some favouring the Direct approach and some the Indirect approach. Ideally, by the use of a finely tuned sense of touch, an osteopath is able to select the most appropriate approach for both the presenting complaint and the constitution of the individual.
As an example, let’s consider a ficticious patient. Anne is aged 47 and she presents with neck and shoulder pain. According to Anne the pain is intense, registering as 8 or 9 (on a scale of 10). The pain arose for no apparent reason, with no recent history of a bump, crash, or fall. Anne reported leading a very busy life, with both work and home contributing to a fair amount of stress. Anne is thin and describes herself as being ‘a bit of anxious type’. Also she suffers from Fibromyalgia, and has a ‘delicate digestive system’. Given this information, the osteopath has a bit of an insight into Anne’s experience and constitution, and this may guide a general treatment approach which may favour the use of Indirect techniques. Ultimately, the choice of treatment approach evolves through a treatment session as the osteopath gauges the moment by moment response of Anne’s muscles, joints and ligaments. In subsequent sessions this process continues, informed also by hearing about Anne’s response in terms of pain levels and ease of movement.
