We're Moving!

On March 15th, 2022 we will be moving our Ajax office to a new location in Pickering, ON.

I have a very exciting announcement to share with you!

I have been looking for a new clinic space for the past few months and I am happy to inform you that I have found it! Effective March 15th, 2022, Form and Function Osteopathy will open its doors in a more spacious and comfortable office. Our new address is 7A-1400 Bayly St, Pickering, ON L1W 3R2,which is located in the 2nd office mall of this complex.

Form and Function Osteopathy opened its doors in Ajax on October 5th 2021 and I cannot thank you enough for your trust and support. Your continued support has helped us grow and now more space is needed to serve you better.

A reminder email will be sent out closer to March 15th to remind you that we have moved locations. Also, keep an eye for the updated location on your booking confirmation.

I am so looking forward to welcoming you into our new space on March 15th!

What is Osteopathy and how is it different than other manual therapies?

As many people are being introduced to Osteopathy [ostee-op-athee], many are wondering what exactly Osteopathy is and how is it different than other manual practices?

Osteopathy is a gentle hands-on therapy that is focused on the relationship between the structure and function of the human body. Osteopathic Manual Therapy (OMT) is based on the belief that the body can self-heal and self-regulate. This means that through OMT we can make an adjustment to the structure, which in turn affects the functioning of the body to allow for healing.

Throughout an osteopathic treatment, your osteopathic manual practitioner (OMP) will move in and out of assessment and treatment seamlessly. Your OMP will be looking for areas of restriction, tissue texture change, asymmetry and sensorial changes that may be leading to dysfunction. Throughout treatment, your OMP will be not only focused on a specific area, but they are also thinking of the areas that are connected. We are constantly asking “why”, why is that area restricted?, what could be holding tension in this area? This thinking helps us find the root cause(s) of your pain. Which may not be the area you are experiencing pain. One of the core principles of osteopathy is that the body is a dynamic unit of function, which means that everything is connected through anatomy and physiology. Generally, this means that you may come to see us with the primary complaint of shoulder pain, but we will also consider assessment not only directly around the shoulder and the shoulder itself, but the hips, neck, thorax, etc.

What to expect in an Osteopathic treatment?

In your initial Osteopathic treatment, your OMP will go through a detailed health history to understand why you are seeking osteopathic treatment, but to also understand the overall health of your body and any past injuries or patterns that may be contributing to your pain or dysfunction. Once your practitioner understands your health history, they will begin with your assessment and treatment. Generally, an assessment and treatment will last 30 minutes, with the option of a 45-minutes depending on your concerns. It is determined with your practitioner depending on what is best for your body. Within your appointment your OMP will assess head to toe, as each time you come into treatment, your body may have changed from the last treatment, as well as changes your body experiences daily. We must reassess to determine the progress and changes your body will continue to go through. This is why no two treatments are the same. Treatment is very gentle overall, as your practitioner is trying to work with your body's tissues to create lasting change, however, there may be moments your practitioner may find a tender spot as they work. Your OMP will work with you to ensure you are comfortable throughout treatment by keeping an open dialogue.

What Makes Osteopathy different than other manual therapies?

You can find many similarities between other manual therapies and Osteopathy; however, Osteopathy is unique in the way we look at and treat the body. We do assess all layers of the body, from the fascia (the connective tissue that surrounds organs, vessels, muscles, and bones in the body) to the bony and ligamentous structure. While we will address the main area of concern, we will always look at the entire body. While other manual therapies may focus primarily on one layer such as the bony tissue, soft tissue, or joints in treatment, OMT will assess all those areas in each treatment. The foundation of our studies is on anatomy and physiology and how it is all connected and related. We rely on our palpation to assess the body. Therefore, our understanding of anatomy must be comprehensive. As we assess each area of the body, we need to understand what structures are under our hands as well as what vessels and nerves supply the area. This allows us to determine and treat the root cause(s) of your pain.

New Fee Schedule Effective January 2024.

Valued Patient, 

We would like to give you advance notice of our upcoming fee increase. Over the past year, I have continued to invest in enhancing the quality and efficiency of my services through continuing education courses. These investments have allowed me to maintain the high standard of excellence you have come to expect. However, it is with a sense of responsibility that I must inform you of an upcoming adjustment to my service fees.

After careful consideration and in light of the current market conditions and rising operational costs, I find it necessary to implement a modest price increase for my services. This adjustment will enable me to sustain the level of care you have come to rely on and ensure that I can continue to invest in improvements that benefit you.

The new pricing structure will take effect starting January 2024 and you will see the new rates reflected on the website when booking. I understand the impact that any change in cost may have on your budget, and I want to assure you that this decision was not made lightly. My commitment to providing exceptional care remains unwavering.

The new fees at Form and Function Osteopathy will be as follows:

Initial Osteopathy Assessment and Treatment (50 mins) - $115

Initial Osteopathy Assessment and Treatment Under 16 (50 mins) - $115

Pediatric Initial Osteopathy Assessment and Treatment  (50 mins) - $115

Follow-up Osteopathy Treatment (30 mins) - $83

Follow-up Osteopathy Treatment Under 16 (30 mins) - $83

Follow-up Pediatric Osteopathy Treatment (30 mins) - $83

Extended Follow-up Osteopathy Treatment (45 mins) - $94

I am more than happy to discuss any questions or concerns you may have regarding this adjustment. Please feel free to reach out to me directly via email or phone.

Thank you for your understanding. I appreciate the opportunity to be part of your healing journey and look forward to contributing to your ongoing healing.

Yours in health, 

Michelle 

The Importance of Warming Up for Golf: Tips and Techniques

Golf is often perceived as a leisurely sport, but seasoned players know that it requires a combination of strength, flexibility, and mental focus. One crucial aspect of golf that often gets overlooked is the warm-up. Properly warming up before hitting the course can significantly impact your performance and help prevent injuries. Here's a guide on why warming up is essential and how to do it effectively.

 Why Warming Up Matters

  1. Injury Prevention

 Golf involves repetitive motions that can strain muscles, joints, and tendons. Warming up helps to increase blood flow to these areas, making them more pliable and less prone to injury. A well-prepared body can handle the demands of the game better, reducing the risk of strains and sprains.

 2. Improved Performance

 A good warm-up routine can enhance your flexibility, balance, and coordination, all of which are crucial for a smooth and powerful golf swing. It also helps to mentally prepare you, improving focus and concentration, which can lead to better decision-making and execution on the course.

 3. Enhanced Range of Motion

 Dynamic stretches and movements used in a warm-up routine help to increase your range of motion. This is particularly important in golf, where a wide range of motion can contribute to a more efficient and effective swing.

 Effective Warm-Up Techniques

1. General Warm-Up

 Start with a general warm-up to increase your heart rate and get your blood flowing. This can be a brisk walk, light jog, or jumping jacks for about 5-10 minutes. The goal is to elevate your body temperature and prepare your muscles for more specific golf-related movements.

 2. Dynamic Stretching

 Dynamic stretches involve moving parts of your body through a full range of motion. These stretches are particularly effective for golf as they mimic the movements you'll perform during the game. Here are some key dynamic stretches to include:

• Arm Circles: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and extend your arms out to the sides. Make small circles with your arms, gradually increasing the size of the circles. Do this for about 30 seconds in each direction.

• Torso Twists: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and place your hands on your hips. Twist your torso from side to side, keeping your hips facing forward. Repeat for about 30 seconds.

•  Leg Swings: Stand next to a wall or a golf cart for support. Swing one leg forward and backward, keeping it straight. Do this for about 30 seconds on each leg. Then, swing each leg side to side for another 30 seconds.

3. Golf-Specific Warm-Up

 After your general and dynamic warm-up, move on to golf-specific exercises. These should mimic the motions you'll use during your game. If you have the opportunity, this is a good time to hit the range! 

- Practice Swings: Take several practice swings with a golf club, starting slowly and gradually increasing speed and range of motion. Focus on maintaining good form and balance  

- Putting Practice: Spend a few minutes on the putting green to get a feel for the greens. 

- Chipping Practice: Hit a few chip shots to warm up your short game. 

Remember this is not about how your shots are, it's about warming up your body!

Sample Warm-Up Routine

Here's a sample warm-up routine you can follow before your next round of golf:

1. General Warm-Up (5-10 minutes):

   - Brisk walk or light jog

   - Jumping jacks

2. Dynamic Stretching (5-10 minutes):

   - Arm circles

   - Torso twists

   - Leg swings

3. Golf-Specific Warm-Up (10-15 minutes):

   - Practice swings

   - Putting practice

   - Chipping practice

Warming up is an essential part of playing golf, one that can improve your performance and help prevent injuries. By incorporating a proper warm-up routine into your pre-game ritual, you'll set yourself up for a more enjoyable and successful round. So, the next time you head to the golf course, make sure to take the time to warm up properly – your body and your game will thank you!

Yours in health, 

Michelle 

Unlocking Relief: Exploring Manual Osteopathy for Concussion Recovery

Concussions, often referred to as mild traumatic brain injuries, are increasingly recognized as significant health concerns across various demographics, from athletes to everyday individuals. While rest and gradual return to activity remain key components of concussion management, complementary therapies such as manual osteopathy are gaining attention for their potential to alleviate symptoms and promote recovery. In this blog, we delve into the intersection of manual osteopathy and concussion management, exploring how this holistic approach can offer relief and support healing.

Understanding Concussions 

Before diving into the role of manual osteopathy in concussion recovery, let’s briefly outline what a concussion is. Concussions occur due to a blow or jolt to the head or body, causing the brain to move rapidly within the skull. This movement can result in chemical changes in the brain and sometimes stretching and damaging brain cells.

Concussions manifest with a range of symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, fatigue, memory problems, and sensitivity to light and noise. While many concussions resolve within a few days to weeks with adequate rest and management, some individuals experience persistent symptoms, known as post-concussion syndrome, which can significantly impact daily life and well-being. Post-concussion syndrome can elicit a range of symptoms including brain fog, cognitive fatigue, lack of concentration, emotional dysregulation, and many more. Post-concussion syndrome can last for periods longer than 3 months. 

The Role of Manual Osteopathy

Manual osteopathy is a form of manual therapy that focuses on the relationship between the body's structure and its function. Practitioners of manual osteopathy use a variety of techniques, including soft tissue manipulation, joint mobilization, and gentle stretching, to address imbalances and restrictions in the body.

So, how does manual osteopathy fit into the picture of concussion recovery? While it’s not a standalone treatment for concussions, manual osteopathy can complement conventional approaches by addressing musculoskeletal issues that often arise alongside concussions. Here’s how:

1.    Muscle Tension and Imbalances: Following a concussion, individuals may experience muscle tension and imbalances as the body compensates for the injury. Manual osteopathy techniques can help release tension in tight muscles and restore balance to the musculoskeletal system, reducing discomfort and promoting relaxation.

2.    Cervical Spine Dysfunction: Dysfunction in the cervical spine (neck) is common in individuals with concussions and can contribute to symptoms such as headaches and dizziness. Manual osteopathy treatments can target the cervical spine, improving mobility and alleviating symptoms associated with neck dysfunction.

3.    Facilitated Healing: Manual osteopathy techniques promote circulation, lymphatic drainage, and the body's natural healing processes. By enhancing blood flow and reducing inflammation, manual osteopathy may facilitate faster recovery from concussion-related symptoms. 

4.    Whole-Body Approach: Manual osteopathy takes a holistic approach to health, considering the interconnectedness of the body systems. Practitioners assess not only the site of injury but also other areas of the body that may be affected. By addressing overall body function, manual osteopathy aims to support comprehensive healing and well-being.

Integrating Manual Osteopathy into Concussion Care

Integrating manual osteopathy into concussion care involves collaboration between healthcare providers, including physicians, physiotherapists, and osteopathic practitioners. A multidisciplinary approach ensures that individuals receive comprehensive care tailored to their specific needs and symptoms.

Here are some ways manual osteopathy can be integrated into concussion management:

• Assessment and Treatment: Osteopathic practitioners conduct thorough assessments to identify areas of dysfunction and develop personalized treatment plans. Treatments may include hands-on techniques, therapeutic exercises, and lifestyle recommendations to support recovery.

• Education and Self-Management: Osteopathic practitioners educate individuals about concussion recovery, including strategies for symptom management and gradual return to activity. Empowering individuals to take an active role in their recovery enhances overall outcomes.

• Collaboration with Other Healthcare Providers: Osteopathic practitioners collaborate with other members of the healthcare team to ensure coordinated care. This may involve sharing assessment findings, progress updates, and treatment recommendations to optimize outcomes. Concussion recovery can have the best outcomes when your healthcare team can come together. 

Conclusion

Concussions present complex challenges that require a multifaceted approach to management and recovery. Manual osteopathy offers a valuable adjunct to conventional therapies by addressing musculoskeletal issues, promoting relaxation, providing tools to aid in recovery and supporting the body's natural healing processes.

While further research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness of manual osteopathy in concussion recovery, anecdotal evidence and clinical experience suggest promising benefits for individuals seeking relief from persistent symptoms.

As awareness of the potential benefits of manual osteopathy continues to grow, it is essential to foster collaboration among healthcare providers and promote an integrated approach to concussion care. By harnessing the principles of manual osteopathy alongside evidence-based strategies, we can unlock new avenues for healing and restoration in concussion recovery journeys.

References:

Guernsey, D. T., Leder, A., & Yao, S. (2016). Resolution of concussion symptoms after 

osteopathic manipulative treatment: a case report. Journal of Osteopathic 

Medicine, 116(3), e13–e17. https://doi.org/10.7556/jaoa.2016.036

Patel, K. G., & Sabini, R. C. (2018). Safety of Osteopathic cranial Manipulative medicine as 

an adjunct to conventional postconcussion symptom management: a pilot study. Journal of Osteopathic Medicine, 118(6), 403–409. https://doi.org/10.7556/jaoa.2018.061

Permenter, C. M., Thomas, R. J. F., & Sherman, A. L. (2023, August 28). Postconcussive

syndrome. StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534786/#:~:text=Approximately%2090%20percent%20of%20concussion,symptoms%20persist%20beyond%203%20months.

Zwibel, H., Leder, A., Yao, S., & Finn, C. (2018). Concussion Evaluation and Management: 

An Osteopathic perspective. The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association, 118(10), 655. https://doi.org/10.7556/jaoa.2018.144