Many people suffer routinely with such problems as irritable bowel syndrome, indigestion and reflux. Various medications help relieve the symptoms, but an osteopathic approach may also have something to offer. Easing tension in the abdominal muscles, releasing spasm in some of the intestinal muscles, and helping to improve circulation and nerve function may also help to reduce the symptoms and reliance upon medication.

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Medical professionals and most physiotherapists working in these fields do not do much (if any) 'hands on' management, and even some release of tissue tension, and some help with exercises (making sure you are working the correct ones, for a start!) will aid overall progress. Drug therapy does not always work effectively or the same, in all people, and so alternative supportive measures, such as osteopathy may be needed.

Osteopaths can gently work on the following:

The diaphragm and chest muscles to help some cases of reflux, hernia or esophagitis
The spine and rib cage to improve nerve function to the stomach and intestines
The abdominal muscles and organs, to improve transit of the food along the gut, to ease circulation and to reduce muscle spasm and cramping in the gut muscles

Osteopaths do not aim to replace standard medical treatment - surgery may still be required in some instances, but, it is often the case that surgery can be deferred following treatment, or that recovery may be aided following osteopathic treatment. Because osteopaths use very gentle techniques they can be applied with days or weeks or surgery. If you have not had a medical diagnosis or any special tests done then it is usually the case that these are required, to help ensure osteopathic management is best directed.

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Treatment is aimed at improving movement and flexibility in the abdomen and associated tissues, and does not aim to 'remove' the problem, like surgery does for crohn's disease, or to replace drug therapy such as antispasmodics or antacids. Osteopaths try to get the body and the tissues to function more normally, to be less inflamed, and not so reactive, thus reducing pain and suffering.

The gentle massaging style techniques are applied so as to minimise discomfort. Patients often find that treatment takes 2-3 sessions to begin to alter the pain / symptom pattern, and after 4-6 treatments patients often notice improvement in their overall problem and lifestyle. Some patients require more 'maintenance treatment' than others, and this can be discussed in detail during the treatment sessions. Everyone requires a slightly different type of management, and there is no 'set number of treatments per condition'.

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