Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT)
A wide range of techniques are available from our osteopaths.
OMT is a term that refers to the hands-on treatment method used by osteopaths to diagnose, treat and prevent illness or injury. This is an umbrella term that covers a range of manual techniques used by osteopaths.
A brief resume of these techniques includes:
High Velocity Thrust (HVT), perhaps the most widely recognised technique by patients (and YouTubers!) who associate hearing a click with osteopathic treatment. In combination with a thorough case history and assessment of the suitability and safety for the individual it remains a valid technique, but increasingly is being replaced by less invasive procedures.
Articulation involves the mobilisation of the spine and joints with stretching and soft tissue release techniques. The safety profile for this approach is very good so it can be applied to all ages.
Deep tissue massage is used by osteopaths to release tension and scar tissue in structures that are affected by poor posture and previous injury.
Trigger Point Therapy is a technique where direct pressure is applied to specific points in muscles, causing a release response. It is excellent for improving blood circulation to tight inflamed muscles where deep tissue massage may irritate.
This is just a sample of many manual techniques used safely and considerately by osteopaths at The Ashworth Practice.
Using OMT we can effectively treat your muscles and joints to relieve pain, promote healing, and increase overall mobility.
Each treatment plan is tailored to the individual and all patients are involved in the decision- making process about which techniques to apply. If you have an interest in a particular technique or have responded well to a treatment approach in the past, let us know, we’re here to help.
F.A.Q.s
Are you going to “click” my spine?
Our osteopaths are trained in many osteopathic techniques, including manipulation (HVT).
The decision as to which technique is used is shared between the patient and practitioner. If safe, HVT’s can be considered but are optional.
I don’t want to be “clicked”. Can I still be treated?
Yes! Many techniques are available that don’t involve HVT’s
If I only want a massage what can you do?
We have an option for you to book with our therapeutic masseuse, this is more cost effective and can be combined with our osteopathic treatment.
If you have any other questions that were not addressed in this FAQ section, please feel free to reach out to us. We are here to help and provide further information as needed.