Scott Spulnick, Osteopathy and RMT Massage Therapy for Downtown Vancouver

Osteopathy is a form of drug-free, non-invasive manual medicine that focuses on total body health by treating and strengthening the musculoskeletal framework. It is based on the principle that the well-being of an individual depends on their bones, muscles, ligaments, and connective tissue functioning smoothly together. Flow State Osteo is an Osteopathic Physician practice that focuses on providing comprehensive care to patients of all ages.

Osteopathy, chiropractic, and physiotherapy all focus on alleviating pain and improving bodily function, but they differ in their treatment approaches. Osteopathy takes a holistic approach, considering the entire body in therapy, while chiropractic often focuses more on spinal manipulation. Physiotherapy usually emphasizes exercise and movement rehabilitation. 

Osteopathy can help with a range of conditions including back pain, neck pain, headaches, joint pain, repetitive strain injuries, postural problems due to pregnancy or work strain, and sports injuries. 

During an osteopathy session, the osteopathic practitioner will first discuss your health problems, history, and any symptoms you might be experiencing. This is followed by a physical examination. Treatment may involve a combination of techniques like stretching, massage, and manipulation of muscles and joints to improve mobility and relieve tension and pain.

Osteopathic treatment is generally not painful. Some techniques may cause discomfort during and immediately after treatment, but this is usually short-lived. Patients are encouraged to communicate any discomfort they experience to their osteopathic practitioner during the session. 

In most cases, you do not need a referral from a GP to see an osteopathic practitioner, as they are primary healthcare practitioners. However, if you are using health insurance to cover the cost of your treatment, your insurance policy may require a GP referral. 

The number of sessions required varies depending on the individual and the condition being treated. Some patients experience improvement after a few sessions, while others may need ongoing treatment to manage long-term conditions. 

Many insurance plans cover osteopathy treatments, but coverage varies depending on the plan and provider. It's advisable to check with your insurance provider for details about your coverage. 

Yes, osteopathy can be effective in preventing health issues. By improving posture, increasing mobility, and enhancing blood flow, osteopathy helps maintain the body’s balance and reduce the likelihood of future injury or illness. 

Some patients may experience mild soreness or fatigue after treatment, similar to what one might feel after exercise. These symptoms are typically short-lived and a natural response to the body's healing process.