Osteopathy and Joint Replacement
The necessity for joint replacement surgery is usually one that wants to be prolonged as much as possible.
A common complication of arthritic change to a joint is referral of pain to other local areas of the body. This is due to the gradual development of compensatory patterns that form to keep the body functioning as best it can. For example arthritis of the hip will often cause pain and stiffness to the knee, arthritis to the fingers can refer to the wrists and elbows. Arthritis of the neck can cause headaches, dizziness and shoulder muscle tension. A common post-surgical complication is that these related regions are still experiencing that associated strain and imbalance and therefore continue OR begin to cause pain. Osteopathy treats the body as a whole system and takes into account these relationships. To address the correlating structures with such treatment will help alleviate much of the unnecessary strain on the problematic area. The benefit of pre-surgical treatment is improved everyday functionality and mobility, as well as optimising your chance of a speedy recovery after your operation. Post-surgical swelling, stiffness and weakness can also be addressed by your osteopath as part of your rehabilitation and healing. If you, or one of your family/friends has had or is considering joint replacement surgery please speak to one of our practitioners for more information and help us help you get back on your feet!