Osteopaths at The Harmony Pain Relief & Injury Clinic are happy to help patients with any treatment listed above.

Rebound headaches

Rebound headaches are the result of taking too many painkillers. Osteopaths frequently see patients presenting with headaches. On taking a history it then emerges that the patient has a chronic painful condition such as arthritis for which they are taking large quantities of pain-killers on a continual basis. However, these headaches are actually caused by the analgesics themselves. One indicator suggestive of a rebound headache is that symptoms are worse in the morning right after waking. This is due to the pain numbing effect of the drug wearing-off overnight. Osteopaths will suggest that patients cut-back on the quantities of drugs they are taking and rather focus on the real cause of their complaint. If, for example, the issue was arthritis there are a number of non-analgesic supplements which can be taken as well as physical relief and exercises.

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.