Osteopaths at West Dulwich Complementary Health Centre are happy to help patients with any treatment listed above.

Neck stiffness

Neck stiffness is one of the most common conditions presented to ostoepaths. The most typical presentation is a muscle in spasm which is a reaction by the body to protect a deeper primary cause which may be an indication of a more serious neck complaint. Frequently the cause of the pain is a single violent trauma such as a whiplash or sports injury. More worrying would be an underlying degenerative condition weakening the discs in the spinal column. An osteopath will treat this condition most effectively after the worst of the spasm has passed so that the underlying condition may be effectively diagnosed and addressed. Typically rest and ibuprofen will be recommended in the interim. Once the muscles have relaxed manipulation or mobilisation are likely to be beneficial.

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.