In the information age, alternative medicinal approaches have grown in popularity. One of the currently growing modalities of medical treatment is that of osteopathic medicine. Here, we touch on the basics of osteopathic medicine and its unique purposes. We can then look at four supplements that could play a helpful role in the context of osteopathic medical care.
A Look at Osteopathic Medicine
Have you ever heard the term “holistic medicine”? The term “holistic” refers to things that are interconnected and are complementary parts of a whole. Osteopathic medicine is a field of medicine that treats patients holistically. A doctor of osteopathy (DO) approaches treatment differently than an MD, yet he or she has undergone a level of education and training akin to that of an MD.
Osteopathic treatment is carried out with three pillars or principles in mind: whole-person care (which presumes that all body parts and systems are interconnected), self-healing (utilizing the body’s natural tendencies to heal itself), and an emphasis on a well-balanced musculoskeletal system as it relates to the person’s holistic well-being. Ailments affecting the musculoskeletal, nervous, and/or lymphatic systems are addressed by osteopathic medicine and are referred to as “somatic dysfunctions.” A primary goal of osteopathic treatment is to prevent the development of diseases, and not just assist in treating them.
The hands-on techniques of osteopathic medicine are primarily categorized in the practice of osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMT). These techniques involve applying pressure to muscle and fascial tissue, and can effectively reduce pain, enhance mobility, and support recovery from injury. OMT is useful for a wide variety of injuries and ailments.
Supplements in the Context of Osteopathic Treatment
Many supplements could be beneficial to someone receiving osteopathic treatment, but several of them in particular align themselves with osteopathic treatment because of their suitability to support musculoskeletal and whole-body health. Following is a look at four medicinal supplements that have been utilized within osteopathic medicine, and why they are beneficial:
Magnesium has often been recommended by osteopaths, and there are at least a few different remedial uses it could have. These include treating high blood pressure, migraine, muscle cramps, and premenstrual syndrome. A magnesium supplement can best help older patients who are, to some degree, deficient in this mineral. Recommended forms include magnesium, magnesium glycinate, and magnesium citrate, which are all available in oral capsule form.
Omega-3 fatty acids provide benefits that are so useful and widely applicable that it is no wonder they are recommended in the realm of osteopathic medicine These acids, namely EPA and DHA, can reduce bodily inflammation, which is a common factor in many types of disease. They also support joint health and aid in bodily recovery. The benefits of omega-3s, taken as part of osteopathic treatment, extend to the most fundamental aspects of personal health, including heart health and brain function.
Calcium supplementation is recommended by some osteopathic practitioners for its ability to support recovery, especially in athletes. Calcium intake is crucial for maintaining healthy bones. Boosting your dietary calcium intake with a supplement can support bone strength enough to reduce the risk of overt bone injuries, such as stress fractures.
Vitamin D is the one vitamin we will mention here, since it is recommended by multiple osteopathic sources. Vitamin D plays a necessary supporting role in the absorption of calcium, making it valuable for bone strength and density. Furthermore, vitamin D has strong anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce joint pain and stiffness.
If you are currently seeing an osteopathic doctor, considering doing so in the future, or you simply want a supplement that is known to be holistically beneficial, then consider these four highly-recommended products. Of course, it is also recommended that you discuss with your osteopathic care provider any supplement you intend to take.