What Is Osteopathy?

Safety Of Treatments

Given its non-invasive approach, osteopathy is regarded by many as one of the safest alternative medicine treatments available. The treatment is even considered safe enough that it is regularly used on infants. After an osteopathy session using manipulation, some patients might experience minor soreness for up to forty-eight hours, though this is considered normal. If soreness continues for more than forty-eight hours, the patient may wish to speak with the osteopath or with their primary care doctor. Post-treatment soreness that persists for more than forty-eight hours only occurs in an estimated one out of every 50,000 to 100,000 patients. While osteopathy is very safe for most patients, individuals who have bone cancer, infections of the bones or joints, or severe osteoporosis should avoid forceful manipulative maneuvers during a session, including lymphatic pumps and all types of thrusts. For optimal safety, patients should always seek advice from their primary care physician about whether osteopathic treatment is safe for their health needs. It is also important to check an osteopathic doctor is registered before undergoing treatment with them, and patients may wish to interview several osteopaths and ask questions about their credentials and experience before choosing to be treated.

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