Osteopaths at Peacehaven and Telscombe Clinic are happy to help patients with any treatment listed above.

Chronic muscle stiffness

Chronic muscle stiffness is a painful condition which is difficult to treat. Doctors will routinely treat this condition, at least in the short-term, with anti-inflamatory drugs such as Diclofenac. However, these drugs have serious side-effects which can damage the liver with extended usage. As a result chronic sufferers may wish to consider alternative treatments. One simple palliative option is a relaxing, long hot bath. This will help the muscles relax. More beneficially, osteopaths will prescribe a detailed set of exercises for patients. These exercises use slow repetitive movements to lengthen the muscles. Exercises including stretching and toning, tai chi, yoga and swimming. Walking is also beneficial both to reduce muscle tension but also to help reduce stress and relax the mind. Many osteopaths have trained in what is known as the Bowen Technique which is said to be particularly well suited to this condition and also to Fibromyalgia.

Digestive Upset

Patients with chronic digestive discomfort frequently resort to Gaviscon or other over-the-counter drug remedies to ameliorate their conditions as they arise. But the root cause can be effectively addressed by osteopathy. There are many nerves at the base of the spine connected to the rib cage and the diaprhagm. If the diaphram is excessively tense these nerves are unable to function properly which is a common cause of chronic digestive issues. By releasing this tension, cranial osteopaths are often able to dramatically reduce the pain and discomfort. The muscular tension may be the result of stress or other emotional blockages. As a result the treatment needs to be very gentle to help remove the stress and free-up the body's own healing capablilites. Exercises to help reduce stress in the first-place and manage it down may also be recommended.