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Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment

Southwest Family Physicians -  - Family Practice

Southwest Family Physicians

Family Practice & Medical Weight Loss located in Tigard, OR

Osteopathic manipulative treatment offers an all-natural path toward pain relief and enhanced function. Cynthia Gulick, DO, of Southwest Family Physicians, and the team brings a wealth of experience in osteopathic manipulative treatment to her practice in Tigard, Oregon. When you’re ready to explore this powerful therapy in greater detail, call or schedule a visit online.

Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment Q & A

What is Osteopathic manipulative treatment?

Osteopathic manipulative treatment is a hands-on method that relies on gentle pressure to manipulate your joints, muscles, and soft tissues. This treatment is a scientifically-backed therapy suitable for most patients. 

While this approach shares some similarities to chiropractic adjustments, osteopathic manipulative treatment is performed by a physician and relies on stretching, gentle pressure, and resistance, not force, amplitude, or velocity. 

During her training, Dr. Gulick received more than 300 hours of instruction in the musculoskeletal system. Since entering her professional life, she’s sought out numerous continuing education opportunities to further refine her skills and knowledge. 

What kinds of issues can osteopathic manipulative treatment improve?

Back pain is the primary concern that brings people in for osteopathic manipulative treatment, but this form of therapy can also deliver impressive results for a number of other conditions. 

Some of the issues that respond well to osteopathic manipulative treatment include:

  • Repetitive stress injuries
  • Arthritis
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Bowel issues
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Sports injuries
  • Migraines

 

Many people prefer osteopathic manipulative therapy over invasive surgical interventions or drug therapy. The ability to ease discomfort and improve function without risk of complications, addiction, or long recovery times is a big draw. 

What can I expect during osteopathic manipulative treatment sessions?

When you arrive for treatment, Dr. Gulick sits down with you to discuss your lifestyle, symptoms, and treatment goals. Be prepared to share details about your sleep habits, activity levels, nutrition, and mental well-being. All of this helps Dr. Gulick tailor your treatment plan to align with your specific needs. 

There are more than 40 distinct osteopathic manipulation treatment techniques. Depending on your areas of concern, you might sit, stand, or lie down as Dr. Gulick uses her hands to gently manipulate your soft tissues. She might ask you to change position or breathe in specific patterns during sessions. 

It’s normal for some of the movements in osteopathic manipulation treatment to feel unusual or awkward, but the experience should never be painful. After your session, be sure to drink plenty of water to aid lymphatic drainage and avoid strenuous physical activity for the next 24 hours. A short walk is a great way to help your body adjust after sessions. 

When you’re ready to book a visit, call the office to find a time that fits your schedule or book online in just a few clicks.