The Mental Health Benefits of Osteopathic Treatment

Osteopathic treatment is widely recognized for alleviating physical aches and pains, but its benefits extend far beyond physical relief. Emerging research highlights its potential in improving mental health. A study by Dixon et al. found that individuals with General Anxiety Disorder (GAD) experienced a 50% reduction in symptoms and based on HAM-A (the Hamilton Anxiety measure), 26% of participants were in remission following the series of treatments. Years of treatment? Surprisingly not – five, one-hour long sessions over eight weeks brought about these results in a group that to qualify, had not previously found improvement with conventional psychiatric treatments​ (Clearscope).

The Impact of Stress and How Osteopathy Can Help

Stress is a universal experience, particularly in high-paced environments like Hong Kong. For many people, being wired is a lifestyle. Major cities attract folk who are a little bit extra, they want more from life and they’re willing to give more for it too. Fortunately, there are treatments like osteopathy that can support recovery.  

While short-term stress is manageable, prolonged stress can severely impact health. A study by Fornari et al. demonstrated that osteopathic manipulative therapy (OMT) could mitigate physiological stress responses. Participants who received OMT before a stress-inducing mental math test exhibited lower cortisol spikes and heart rate variability compared to a control group​ (Workweek). Additionally, the usual follow-up drop in morning cortisol (following a stressful event) was absent in the osteopathic treatment group.  This study demonstrates the potential of regular osteopathic treatments to support the physiological ability to regulate and recover during stressful periods. 

Why Regular Osteopathic Sessions Matter

Regular osteopathic treatments can support the body's ability to regulate stress effectively. By managing cortisol levels, osteopathy helps maintain optimal brain function, crucial for memory and emotional regulation. If you're anticipating a busy period at work, scheduling weekly osteopathic sessions can help your body and mind perform at their best.

More about ALIGN

Experience the holistic benefits of osteopathy at ALIGN. Our 60-minute zen treatment sessions aim to align your body, rest your mind, and recalibrate your overall well-being. Book your session today and start your journey towards a balanced and healthy life.

References:

1. Dixon L, Fotinos K, Sherifi E, et al. Effect of Osteopathic Manipulative Therapy on Generalized Anxiety Disorder. J Am Osteopath Assoc. 2020 Mar 1;120(3):133-143. doi: 10.7556/jaoa.2020.026. PMID: 32091557.

2. Fornari, M., Carnevali, L. & Sgoifo, A. (2017). Single Osteopathic Manipulative Therapy Session Dampens Acute Autonomic and Neuroendocrine Responses to Mental Stress in Healthy Male Participants. Journal of Osteopathic Medicine, 117(9), 559-567. https://doi.org/10.7556/jaoa.2017.110