Complaints

Back and neck pain

Back and neck pain are common problems that can greatly affect daily life. These pains range from mild discomfort to severe obstacles that make daily activities difficult. Osteopathy offers effective treatment for these complaints, which are common in our screen-rich society. These complaints are often related to computer work and/or smart phone use.

Back and neck pain

Osteopaths not only focus on the spine, but also examine other possible causes, such as connections to organs like the intestines or kidneys.

Common causes of back and neck pain are poor posture, prolonged sitting, overuse, injury, stress and age-related degenerative changes in the spine. Complaints can also be indirectly caused by problems in the organ system or musculoskeletal system.

Back and neck pain

OsteoPlaza's approach to back and neck pain

At OsteoPlaza, we treat back and neck pain according to osteopathic principles. Our approach focuses on identifying and treating the underlying causes of the complaints, not just the symptoms. By restoring balance, improving blood flow, and increasing the mobility of the spine and other body parts, we offer a sustainable solution for back and neck pain.

For example, common complaints in the lower back can often be traced to limited mobility of the kidney, which is located just above the psoas muscle, one of the hip flexors. Connective tissue called the fasciae perirenalis lies between this muscle and the kidney. When this connective tissue sticks or becomes immobile due to reduced mobility or inflammation, the kidney can no longer glide smoothly over the muscle.

Normally, the kidney moves freely over the hip flexor with every step we take, but when this does not happen, the lower back must compensate, quickly leading to complaints. To effectively treat these complaints, we first restore the mobility of the fasciae perirenalis before treating the lower back locally. Without this approach, the complaints would keep returning, a challenge often left unresolved in other disciplines because the true cause is not addressed.

Back and neck pain

Diagnosis and treatment plan

At OsteoPlaza, treatment of back and neck pain starts with a comprehensive diagnosis. During the initial consultation, we discuss your symptoms and medical history in detail. Our osteopath listens carefully to your story and asks specific questions to get a clear picture of your health situation.

At OsteoPlaza, our osteopath focuses on the symptoms of back and neck pain and the root causes. We use gentle, manual treatment techniques that are both safe and effective.  After the examination, the osteopath discusses the findings with you, and together we create a personalized treatment plan. This plan includes various osteopathic techniques and advice to support your recovery.

Treatment techniques

For back and neck pain

At OsteoPlaza, our osteopath focuses not only on the symptoms of back and neck pain, but also on the root causes. We use gentle, manual treatment techniques that are both safe and effective. Here you can see some of the techniques we use.

These techniques aim to reduce pain, improve mobility and promote natural healing. Our osteopath also offers advice on posture and lifestyle to reduce symptoms. The ultimate goal is to create more balance in your body so that you experience fewer symptoms.

Mobilization techniques

These improve movement and flexibility of joints, stimulate blood flow, optimize innervation, and promote mobility, supporting the natural healing process.

Myofascial techniques

These techniques reduce tension in muscles, ligaments and other soft tissue, focus on loosening adhesions, improve blood circulation and promote relaxation.

Manipulation techniques

With gentle manipulations, we improve the mobility of joints and remove blockages in the body.

Visceral techniques

Targeted manual techniques around internal organs that improve mobility and connective tissue repair, ultimately increasing spinal mobility.

Specific exercises

Exercises for the spine that support and stimulate the healing process.

Back and neck pain

What to expect
after the treatment?

After an osteopathic treatment for back and neck pain, you may experience various reactions, ranging from immediate relief to a temporary increase in sensitivity in the treated area. It is important to take good care of yourself after the treatment. Follow the advice given, which may include specific exercises and maintaining good posture, to promote the recovery of your back and/or neck and prevent future complaints.

Frequently asked questions

Can an osteopath help with back and neck pain?

Yes, an osteopath can very effectively help with back and neck pain. Through various techniques, the osteopath focuses on improving joint mobility, relieving muscle tension and promoting better blood circulation, which contributes to pain relief and recovery.

What should you avoid after an osteopathy treatment?

After an osteopathy treatment, it is advisable to avoid heavy physical exertion and not engage in intensive sports for at least 24 to 48 hours. It is also wise to avoid alcohol and other therapies that can overload the body to allow it time to recover and respond to the treatment.

What to do for a blocked lower back?

With a blocked lower back, it is advisable to consult an osteopath. While waiting for treatment, it may help to continue light movements that feel comfortable such as walking. It also helps to apply heat to relax muscles. Avoid sitting or standing in one position for long periods of time.

How does a pinched nerve in the lower back feel?

A pinched nerve in the back can cause various symptoms, such as sharp, stabbing pain, tingling, a burning sensation or numbness radiating to the legs. The pain may worsen with certain movements or postures.

What does an osteopath do for a pinched nerve?

An osteopath treats a pinched nerve by applying techniques aimed at reducing pressure on the nerve. By mobilizing joints, relaxing muscles and improving overall posture, further compression on the nerve is prevented. Treatment is aimed at addressing the cause of the constriction and supporting the body’s natural healing process.

How is osteopathy different from other treatments like physiotherapy?

An osteopath looks for the root cause of complaints. This involves looking at the whole body and considering it as an integrated system. A physical therapist focuses only on the region where the symptoms are located and makes greater use of exercises to reduce these symptoms. Osteopathy takes a more “hands-on” approach. This is done by moving tissues (e.g., joints, muscles and connective tissue around organs) with the hands.

Is osteopathy scientifically based?

Yes, osteopathy is substantiated by research demonstrating its effectiveness for certain conditions such as abdominal pain, headaches, back pain, neck pain and other musculoskeletal complaints. Research in osteopathy is constantly growing and evolving.

Do I need a referral from a GP?

No, a doctor’s referral is not necessary to visit an osteopath. Clients can make an appointment right away.

Is osteopathy covered by health insurance?

Osteopathy is often partially covered under supplementary insurance policies. It is advisable to check your policy or contact your insurer for specific coverage.