1. A broad range of specialised physical therapy services
2. Full rehabilitation
3. Brief and detailed reports – for GPs, Specialists or Medico-Legal
4. Integration into medical management
How we treat using osteopathy
1. History
1. The initial visit to us will be similar to an initial visit to a GP. A complete and detailed medical history is taken in regards to the physical complaint. We want to know about all symptoms, as well as details of any past accidents, traumas or illnesses, even if they may seem unrelated to the patient's current problem.
2. Screen of the patient’s relevant systemic and organ systems related to the complaint.
3. Information regarding the patients current medical management/ treatments and current medication use.
4. Questions will also be asked about lifestyle, diet and emotional status.
* During the history, red flags are always being screened for and identified if present.
2. Examination
1. Posture and Gait analysis- including biomechanical analysis
2. Active and Passive joint motion testing
3. Palpation of the superficial and deep structures
4. Identification of neurological symptoms - dermotome, myotome
3. Orthopedic Tests
1. Spinal Tests- ie. Quadrant. slump, compression and straight leg raise
2. Peripheral joint and cartilage tests ie. McMurray, Speeds, Tinel’s,
3. Muscle strength- active and active resisted
4. Impingement tests- ie. Near impingement, empty can
5. Tendon reflexes- ie. Biceps C5/6, triceps C7/8, patella L3/4
6. Neurological/ cutaneous distribution- ie. Light touch, pain perception
7. Special tests- ie. accessory joint movements
4. Diagnostic Imaging
1. Referral for X-rays when indicated
2. Reading of X-rays, CT, MRI, Ultrasound scans
3. Referral to GP for second opinion regarding further investigations such as CT, MRI, Ultrasound etc.
5. Diagnosis
1. Identifying the structure/ tissue causing the structural or pathological process
2. Identifying predisposing and maintaining factors- ie. Specific everyday activities, actions,
structural abnormalities
3. Is based on history, physical examination, orthopedic tests and diagnostic imaging
6. Manual Treatment
1. Soft tissue mobilisation and stretching
2. Joint articulation and mobilisation techniques
3. Treatment aim is specific to presenting complaint
4. Treatment is specific to the age of the patient (baby, elderly), acute/chronic nature of the injury, patient’s tolerance to certain techniques (ie- requesting no HVLA techniques) etc.
7. Rehabilitation
1. Specific exercises to stretch and/or strengthen the region as at home exercises
2. Pilates, exercises, yoga, swimming, gym programs integrated into patient care.
3. taping/ strapping of the affected region if indicated.
8. Progress Reports
Constant tracking of patient improvement is important via:
1. Monitoring joint and muscle ranges of motion via active, passive and orthopedic tests
2. Standardised outcome measures (eg Oswestry, Quebek)
3. The use of patient specific functional scales (PSFS)
