FAQ

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.

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.

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

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

Osteopathic treatments are generally safe, but as with all medical treatments, there can be risks, especially if treatments are performed by a non-qualified practitioner. Always choose a registered and experienced osteopath.

A standard osteopathic treatment session at OsteoPlaza usually lasts 45 minutes, there are also treatment options of 30 minutes, depending on the complexity of the complaint and the client. For babies and children, a follow-up treatment is often opted for 30 minutes, this can only be done at OsteoPlaza in consultation with the osteopath.

The number of treatments required varies by person and condition. Some people experience improvement after only a few sessions, while others require longer periods of treatment. After 2-3 treatments, there should at least be improvement in symptoms and mobility.

Yes, osteopathy can often be complementary to other (para-) medical treatments. It is important to inform your osteopath about any other treatments you undergo.

Bring a large towel so you can lie on it during the session. Further, bring a list of medications, should you be taking them, and any relevant medical reports or imaging materials.

Comfortable underwear or short athletic shorts are recommended. You will often be asked to remove clothing down to your underwear, depending on the area to be treated.

Yes, osteopathy is great for children and babies. It can help with various complaints such as sleep problems, digestive problems and motor problems.

Yes, osteopathy is recommended for pregnant women. It can help manage back pain and other symptoms during pregnancy.

Osteopathic treatment begins with a thorough history and physical examination. The osteopath uses specific manual actions to correct movement restrictions and imbalances in the body. This helps reduce pain, increase range of motion and improve overall well-being.

Osteopathic treatments are generally not painful. Some techniques may cause short-term discomfort, especially if the treated area is already painful. However, osteopaths strive to make treatment as comfortable as possible.

After osteopathic treatment, it is advisable to avoid strenuous physical activity and not engage in intense sports for at least 24 to 48 hours. It is also wise not to drink alcohol or undergo other therapies that may overload the body, to give the body time to recover and respond to treatment.

Osteopathy is effective for athletes because it helps improve overall mobility and optimize the body, which is crucial for athletic performance. It not only treats specific sports injuries, but also improves circulation, reduces recovery time and helps prevent future injuries by addressing minor injuries before they become serious problems.

An osteopath has undergone extensive training, usually first a college physical therapy followed by a four-year course in osteopathy. This course is full of St. Anatomy, physiology, pathology, general medical diagnosis and osteopathic techniques. Osteopaths must also undergo continuing education to maintain their registration and licenses.

Although osteopathy, manual therapy and chiropractic all use manual techniques, they differ in their philosophy and approach. Osteopaths look even more for the deeper underlying cause and treat more different systems such as the organ system and focus more on connective tissues such as the fascias.