Osteopathy for Stress

Matters concerning mental health have been at the forefront of many recent news stories. The negative effects of stress are well researched and documented; chronic stress can ultimately lead to a shorter life span. The correlation between stress,  high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes and stroke are strengthening, meaning it has never been a better time to address and manage any stress-related issues you may be experiencing. 

Stress can manifest itself in the form of several symptoms:

• Headaches or dizziness
• Muscle tensions, pains and stiffnesses
• Memory and concentration difficulties
• Digestive and stomach problems
• Chest pains or episodes of a faster heart rate
• Irritability and agitation
• Sleep problems, including insomnia
• Substances abuse to manage symptoms (drinking or smoking to ‘wind down after a stressful day’)
• Social withdrawal affecting relationships and overall well being

None of these symptoms are pleasant to live with and can begin to affect your career, hobbies and relationships with others. There are several ways your osteopath can help you to treat and manage stress. 

Massage, available in all three London Osteopath locations (Beckenham, central London and Holborn clinics) is a well-known antidote to stress. A massage can help to reduce symptoms of stress by not only encouraging relaxation with the release of powerful endorphins but also increasing muscle temperature promoting circulation and healing. A calm, serene setting will allow full relaxation whilst your osteopath gently works on any troublesome muscles or joints, leading to a decrease in feelings of anxiety, nervousness, stress and tensions. An added benefit of massage is the release of sleep-inducing hormones, triggered by the deep pressure of a massage, allowing for improved sleep patterns which in turn relieve stress and minimise the negative impact of stress.

The massage therapy that is available at the London Osteopathy clinic, along with hands-on osteopathic treatment, can be referred to as the best way to promote relaxation through a combination of gentle stretching, soft-tissue work and targeted muscle strengthening. The techniques are gentle and controlled, which means that the nervous system is not overstimulated and your symptoms are less likely to be worsened. During your treatment, any pain or discomfort that may be causing you stress can be dealt with by your osteopath, who will use a holistic approach that takes musculoskeletal, neurological and vascular systems into account. This not only restores the body’s natural balance but also enhances the overall health, which might have previously been affected by poor biomechanics in the body.

Your osteopath will be able to provide friendly support, guidance and advice to identify and change harmful lifestyle choices that may harm your quality of life.