Osteopathic articulation refers to the mobilisation and manipulation of joints, although the process achieves so much more than is implied by that statement.  It can be used to treat a wide range of afflictions, including musculoskeletal pain, hypertonic muscles, osteo arthritic joint changes or decreased range of movement. Osteopathic articulation can restore movement and decrease pain to your affected joint(s) by the use of slow, low-key manipulation to the problem zone, working within your pain-free range of motion so as not to cause further discomfort.

Fully trained in this method of treatment, we will discuss your symptoms with you, assess your condition and explain the form of treatment that is best suited to your rehabilitation.

Restricted Movement and Pain

Everyday life puts considerable stress on our joints, ligaments and tendons.  They are constantly in use and under force, it is therefore not surprising that they can lose flexibility and become stiff, diminishing our range of movement, and the joint, ligaments and tendons become painful or incur an injury.  Sometimes we live with the pain/discomfort for some time before we seek help, because other things seem more important, but this is not a good idea because the condition worsens, tissue damage increases and rehabilitation takes longer.

The Benefits of Osteopathic Articulation

Manipulating your joint(s) using this technique, helps the body’s natural lubricating system (otherwise known as synovial fluid) to coat the affected joints and tendons, resulting in a smooth increased range of movement and less pain owing to reduced friction.  Blood flow is encouraged to the afflicted area, feeding the damaged tissue and helping to rid the body of toxins.

Ligaments and Tendons

Early intervention with osteopathic articulation can increase the tensile strength of ligaments, prevent tendons from adhering to their sheath, reduce excess fibrous tissue forming and increase the strength of surrounding tissues, thereby ensuring that formerly painful ligaments and tendons can resume normal pain-free function.

Restricted/Painful Joints or Spine

Problems within the joints can be caused by the restricted movement of ligaments and tendons (referred to above), damaged cartilage or hypertonic muscles. 

Cartilage is a load-bearing material between bones that distributes force and reduces friction and wear. It relies on a nutritional supply of synovial fluid which is released when the joint is in use.  If movement becomes restricted then the release of synovial fluid is restricted and deterioration of the cartilage can occur, leading to pain and damage to your joint.  This is particularly a problem for arthritis sufferers.  Regular gentle manipulation to the problem area, using osteopathic articulation techniques, can improve this condition by restoring the release of synovial fluid and feeding the cartilage, thereby reducing friction and pain.

Hypertonic muscle(s) is a condition where the muscles have too much tone, they become tight and lack elasticity.  This can be as a result of overuse or an accident and the muscle has gone into spasm.  We can help this condition by carefully manipulating the muscle(s) and encouraging them to release and relax, so that movement can be restored and pain eased.

If you are experiencing musculoskeletal pain and restricted mobility, which is particularly common in the neck, shoulders and spine, but also hips, knees, ankles, elbows and hands, then this form of therapy can be so helpful towards your rehabilitation; non-invasive and not painful, it causes a profound increase in movement and promotion of tissue recovery.