Osteopathy in the Fight Against Chronic Stress. How Does Stress Affect the Body?
Stress in the modern world is an almost inseparable part of everyday life. And theoretically, everyone is aware that stress is very harmful to health and increases the risk of many serious illnesses, yet it is constantly underestimated.
In an interview with osteopath Tomasz Sawicki, we explain how chronic stress affects health and suggest how to prevent the symptoms of long-term stress.
The general consensus among us is that chronic stress is detrimental to health. How does stress affect the body's functioning?
Chronic stress weakens the body's immune system and is very harmful to health. It contributes to many negative bodily reactions , such as increased blood pressure, tension headaches, and irritable bowel syndrome. It also affects our musculoskeletal and nervous . Stress can cause shallow and rapid breathing, and consequently, impair diaphragm function.
It seems that the consequences of stress can affect all organs of the body?
Indeed, yes. Chronic stress can also lead to general weakness, fatigue, exhaustion, and burnout, as well as various disorders that affect the functioning of almost every system in the body. Stress can lead to digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome or appetite problems, which are often associated with abdominal pain. It can also contribute to sexual dysfunction, such as low libido or fertility problems. Long-term psychological stress can contribute to the development of neurosis, anxiety, and other psychological problems. Appropriate therapy can be crucial in treating these conditions, helping to alleviate the negative effects of stress. Professionals often use a variety of therapeutic techniques to help the body and mind cope with the burdens of chronic stress.
By observing a patient's posture, can we determine whether they are stressed? That stress is negatively impacting their body?
Yes, because chronic stress also influences posture. Observing a patient, you might notice that in stressful situations, they often automatically raise their shoulders and lean forward. Prolonged stress causes muscles in the jaw, neck, and shoulders to remain tense, resulting from the constant activation of the nervous system, which is responsible for the "fight or flight" response. This poor posture, maintained over time, leads to chronic tension, which can manifest as back pain, neck pain, or headaches. Treatment for these conditions utilizes various techniques to relax tense muscles and improve the patient's posture, which helps alleviate the effects of long-term stress and provides pain relief. Working with a therapist can restore balance to the body and nervous system, which is crucial in treating stress and its physical consequences.
So what happens? When does it hurt? How can an osteopath help?
Osteopathy is a method of manual assessment and treatment of the human body's systems: musculoskeletal, vascular, nervous, and visceral. It therefore provides a holistic approach to the patient. An osteopath will help relieve tension in tissues and muscles and eliminate somatic dysfunctions associated with pain and tissue tension. Often, they will restore joint mobility. They will work to balance the autonomic nervous system, for example, by working with the diaphragm. In treating neuroses, an osteopath may utilize craniosacral therapy, particularly techniques that relax the base of the skull .
How do I make an appointment with an osteopath? Is a doctor's referral required?
– A referral to see an osteopath is not necessary. Becoming an osteopath requires completing a medical degree (physician, physiotherapist) and completing 4-5 years of postgraduate osteopathic training, culminating in an examination and a thesis in the field of osteopathy.
– You can book an appointment online or by phone at 81 532 37 11.
The visit takes place at the CM Luxmed clinic in Lublin, at 6A Zwycięska Street .
Duration of visit: 30 – 45 min .
Thank you for the interview
Tomasz Sawicki, M.A.
, Osteopath and Physiotherapist.
Graduate of the University of Rzeszów, majoring in Physiotherapy.
Graduate of the German School of Osteopathy – Osteopathie Schule Deutschland.
He regularly cares for patients with musculoskeletal pain, functional disorders of the visceral system, and headaches. He also specializes in pediatric osteopathy.
He has completed numerous courses and training in manual medicine, osteopathy, and chiropractic.
The information contained in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is recommended that you consult a physician or other qualified healthcare professional for advice regarding specific symptoms, ailments, or health conditions.