Osteopaths at Poolewe Osteopath 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.

Tension headaches

The symptoms are easy to recognise - pain behind the eyes and a throbbing head. Although often triggered by stress or emotional events, an important causal factor is often a constriction of the blood supply as a result of the the muscles at the back of the neck and the base of the skull over-contracting. In addition to neck pain, this may frequently be the cause of a headache. In the immediate terms occasional use of analgesics may help as will a cold towel or compress. However, in the longer term, it is recommended that two actions be taken. First, an investigation of the upper neck area which may need to be manipulated or mobilised in order to promote sufficient blood flow. Secondly, it is important to understand the sources of emotional stress and try to deflect it using a variety of techniques such as yoga, meditation or even regular exercise.