Osteopathy is a manual therapy that aims to restore the proper functioning of the body's musculoskeletal system. Alongside your medical team and other health professionals (nutrition, psychology, pelvic health therapist etc), Osteopathy can be particularly beneficial for people with endometriosis, a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it which can cause pain and other symptoms.
Osteopaths focus on the body as a whole and can treat the neuromusculoskeletal system, fascia and more. Osteopaths use gentle manipulation techniques, such as stretching, mobilisation, and massage, to improve the function of the joints, muscles, and other tissues in the body.
Here are some of the symptoms of endometriosis and how osteopathy can assist to relieve them:
Pelvic pain: Endometriosis can cause severe pelvic pain, especially during menstruation. Osteopaths can use manual therapy techniques to alleviate pelvic pain, such as myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and visceral manipulation.
Back pain: Endometriosis can also cause back pain, which can be addressed through osteopathic techniques like spinal manipulation and soft tissue mobilisation.
Digestive issues: Endometriosis can cause digestive issues such as bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. Osteopaths can use visceral manipulation to address these issues, which involves gentle manual techniques to improve the function of the internal organs.
Pain during intercourse: Endometriosis can cause pain during sexual intercourse. Osteopaths can use techniques like myofascial release and trigger point therapy to alleviate pain in the pelvic area.
Fatigue: Endometriosis can cause fatigue and low energy levels. Osteopaths can use techniques like cranial osteopathy and lymphatic drainage to improve circulation and energy levels.
Another way that osteopathy can benefit women with endometriosis is by improving the function of the nervous system. The nerves that control the pelvic organs can become irritated or compressed by adhesions or other factors, leading to pain and other symptoms. By releasing tension in the muscles and other tissues around these nerves, an osteopath can help to reduce nerve compression and improve the function of the nervous system. Osteopaths can also help support our parasympathetic nervous system (rest and digest) and decrease the overactive sympathetic nervous system (fight or flight) with various techniques, breath work and neural down regulation.
In addition to manual therapy, osteopaths may also recommend lifestyle changes and exercises to support the healing process such as stress reduction techniques, and specific exercises to improve the function of the pelvic floor muscles. Osteopaths will often refer you to other practitioners that may also be of benefit such as a nutritionist or dietitian with the aim of working together with your primary medical care providers such as your GP and gynaecologist.
What are some exercises you could do at home?
Gentle stretching: Stretching can help alleviate muscle tension and improve flexibility. Simple stretches like the child's pose, downward-facing dog, and pelvic tilts can be helpful for someone with endometriosis.
Breathing exercises: Controlled breathing can help reduce stress and anxiety, which may exacerbate endometriosis symptoms. Techniques like deep breathing, diaphragmatic breathing, and progressive relaxation can be helpful.
Core strengthening exercises: Strengthening the core muscles can help support the pelvic area and alleviate pain. Exercises like bridges, planks, and pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) can be effective.
Low-impact cardiovascular exercise: Low-impact exercises like walking, cycling, and swimming can improve cardiovascular health and promote overall wellness.
It's important to note that osteopathy should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for endometriosis, which may also include medications, hormone therapy, and surgery in some cases. Women with endometriosis should work closely with their healthcare providers to develop a personalised treatment plan that addresses their individual needs, driving factors and symptoms.
Osteopathy can be a valuable therapy for women with endometriosis. By improving the function of the musculoskeletal, nervous, and circulatory systems, osteopathy can help to reduce pain, inflammation, and other symptoms associated with this condition.
This Post was thoughtfully curated by our wonderful Dr. Rebecca Malon. Bec is incredibly passionate and knowledgeable about women's health. She is one of a select few Osteopaths that are trained in treatment pelvic floor dysfunction and internal assessment and techniques.
If you haven't already, book now with Dr. Rebecca or with any other practitioner that suits you. Subscribe to our newsletter and be the first to know about our tips to improve your health. Don't miss out, join our community today!
Comments