Because muscles work in pairs, we often see the same patterns in different patients. Upper cross syndrome is a term to describe a common pattern of tension and weakness in the upper body.
The TMJ stands for the Temporo Mandibular Joint. This is just the technical name for the jaw. The joint itself is just in front of the ear, so clicking can feel very loud to the person affected.
Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones become less dense and more fragile. We cannot cure osteoporosis, but we need to know if you have it as it might alter the treatments that are appropriate and safe for you.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory form of arthritis that mainly affects small joints, such as those in the hands, feet, and neck. Sometimes RA is mistaken for Osteoarthritis. RA can begin as early as your 20s.
Migraines are complex, and still not fully understood. Current thinking is that they may be caused by a combination of neurological and vascular changes. There are medications available to help manage the symptoms of migraines, but research shows that manual therapy can be more effective.
When a muscle at the front of the neck becomes excessively tight, it causes reduced movement in the neck. It also results in the neck bending to one side and rotating to the other.
Tongue tie is a common problem with newborns, but it can be hard to diagnose. Cases fall on a spectrum, with some being visibly obvious, and others causing more vague symptoms.
The joints between the bones of babies’ skulls are relatively soft. This allows for movement during birth, and minimises restriction of the brain’s growth.
The formal name for frozen shoulder is adhesive capsulitis, which means "sticky, inflamed capsule". As the shoulder begins to freeze, it is the capsule that has become tight or "stuck".
Sometimes you might find a “knot” in a muscle, which feels better when you massage it. Other times, pressing into the knot causes a strange pain somewhere else. This might be a trigger point.
The carpal tunnel is a small space in the underside of the wrist. When the contents of the tunnel becomes squashed and a nerve is irritated, you have carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).
Osteopaths treat the person, not the condition. This is no different in pregnancy, when the body is under new mechanical strains. Although there are some common patterns, we all react differently.
Sometimes we all experience vague aches and pains, and often we can just wait them out. But other times they can be more persistent, and instead of getting better, they get worse.
Neck pain can really impact daily life. Twinges on small movements are more than just annoying, and stiffness can impact driving safety. Luckily, your osteopath can help.
