Rupinder Chaggar Osteopath

Osteopaths at Rupinder Chaggar Osteopath see patients with many different conditions, two of the more common complaints are discussed below

Whiplash

Whiplash injuries are frequently the result of a road traffic injury. As a vehicle comes to a sudden stop the head is thrust backwards at great velocity like the end of a whip. Whilst associated with car accidents, whiplash can occur on fairground rides and even from a simple fall. The result may be damage to neck and back discs, joints, ligaments and nerves. The sensitivity of the neck is such that whiplash symptoms can effect all of the body both physically and psychologically. The osteopathic approach is to work these injuries very gently over a number of sessions to carefully treat the tissue and joints. Soft tissue massage techniques will be used to soften the muscle before gentle manipulaiton or articluation techniques are performed in an attempt to restore natural movement ranges.

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 need 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.