What is Manual Osteopathy?

Manual Osteopathy (MOT) is a holistic approach to health that focuses on supporting systemic balance by creating more space within the body. MOT assesses and treats the body as a whole through gentle hands-on techniques.

The human body is incredibly resilient and adaptable, with a remarkable ability to self-heal. Consequently, the body is always compensating to support us in the short term. However, this self-healing ability can become compromised due to stress, injuries, accidents, repetitive movements, poor posture, trauma, and, ultimately, the everyday challenges of living a full life. The goal of MOT is to identify and support the body in ways that foster better long-term compensation. This is achieved by facilitating the body's ability to self-heal. Importantly, MOT practitioners are not healers; they facilitate the self-healing process inherent within each individual's body.

MOT recognizes the intricate connection between the body’s structure and function. Changes in one area can significantly impact others. The primary modality utilized in MOT is fascia—a web of connective tissue that surrounds muscles, organs, and nerves. By manipulating the fascia, MOT can promote better movement patterns, improve circulation, and increase the space within the body necessary for optimal functioning across all systems. In essence, it promotes better compensation and enhances the body's natural ability to self-heal.

Additionally, MOT can complement the benefits of other health practitioners by preparing the body to be more receptive to structural and spiritual alignment. This holistic approach not only alleviates symptoms but also addresses their root causes. Working with a MOT practitioner offers an exciting opportunity to increase body awareness and enhance one’s ability to listen to their body, recognizing the multitude of factors that contribute to overall health.

What Can I Expect During My Appointment?

For your appointment, it is best to wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows for movement. Each session is tailored to the individual's needs and may include:

• Osteoarticulations: Assessment and treatment of bone positioning, including postural analysis, movement pattern assessments, and gentle release of soft tissue to encourage structural alignment.

• Myofascial Remodeling: Evaluation and treatment of areas with high fascial tension.

• Craniosacral Therapy: Assessment of craniosacral rhythm and cranial bones, which is very supportive to the nervous system. In our fast-paced world, this can provide grounding and relief, as the nervous system can often be the root cause of chronic tension within the body.

• Visceral Manipulation: Gentle manipulation of the organs to support their function and attachments to surrounding tissues, which is beneficial for digestion and overall health.

At Botanical Point Acupuncture & Wellness, Manual Osteopathy (MOT) and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) complement each other by emphasizing the body's natural ability to heal through addressing root causes rather than just symptoms. MOT’s work with the nervous system and fascia directly engages with the body’s energy, much like TCM’s focus on balancing meridians. Together, these approaches enhance the flow of energy and promote deeper, more lasting healing. Read more about how combining these two therapies can improve overall health and well-being.