Orthomanual medicine
Orthomanual medicine is a medical treatment method that focuses on the alignment of the spine and other joints. Many complaints in the back, neck, and shoulders arise not only from muscles but from a minor misalignment of a vertebra or joint.
Have you had back, neck, or shoulder complaints for a long time? And do the complaints keep returning, even after physiotherapy or other treatments? It may be that muscles are not the only cause, but that the alignment of the spine plays a role. If a vertebra is not positioned correctly, the body continues to compensate.
In that case, it is important to look beyond the pain and identify the true source of the complaint.
- Focused on the cause, not just symptom relief
- Specialist in long-term back and neck complaints
- Partially reimbursed by your insurer
MSK Centrum scores
an average of 9 out of 10.
What is orthomanual medicine?
Orthomanual medicine is a form of medicine focused on restoring misalignments in the spine and joints. The word literally means: straightening with the hands. It involves examining whether vertebrae or joints are misaligned, causing complaints in areas such as the back, neck, or shoulders.
This method involves examining whether vertebrae or joints are misaligned. Even a minor deviation can lead to improper loading of muscles, ligaments, and intervertebral discs. The treatment is performed by an orthomanual physician.
Unlike treatments that primarily focus on muscles, orthomanual medicine looks at the bone structure and the body’s alignment. Muscles often react to what is wrong with the position of the vertebra. Once the alignment is restored, muscles can relax.
The method and treatment
Within orthomanual medicine, the Sickesz method is used. This is a well-known and widely used method where the alignment of the spine is central. The core of this method is correcting misalignments in the spine.
First, a comprehensive examination takes place. This includes looking at posture, the alignment of the spine, and the mobility of the joints. The treatment follows the examination. Using gentle, targeted hand movements, the physician brings the vertebrae into a better position. This is done without forceful manipulations. The corrections are precise and controlled.
A treatment session is usually brief. Often, several treatments are required, depending on the severity and duration of the complaint. Between treatments, the body is given time to adapt to the new alignment.
Complaints and how they arise
Many complaints develop gradually. Sometimes there is a clear cause, such as a fall or an incorrect movement. However, it often begins with mild pain that slowly worsens. When a vertebra is slightly rotated or shifted, the body’s loading changes. Muscles must work harder to keep the body upright, leading to tension and pain.
Common complaints addressed by orthomanual medicine include:
- Lower back pain
- Neck and shoulder complaints
- Pain between the shoulder blades
- Headaches originating from the neck
- Radiating pain to the arm or leg
If complaints persist despite previous treatments, a different perspective on the problem is required. Orthomanual medicine approaches this from a different starting point.
The effect of orthomanual medicine
The goal of orthomanual medicine is to reduce pain and improve posture and mobility. When the alignment of the spine improves, pressure on muscles and joints can decrease. Many people notice that pain subsides and movement becomes smoother.
Possible effects of orthomanual medicine include:
- Reduced back and neck pain
- Less tension in the shoulders
- Improved posture
- Greater freedom of movement
- Fewer recurring complaints
Recovery varies per person. Some people see rapid improvement, while others require more time, especially if the complaints have existed for years. Orthomanual medicine addresses the cause rather than just the symptoms, which can lead to long-lasting effects.
Collaborations within orthomanual medicine
Orthomanual medicine falls under musculoskeletal medicine. This is a medical field focused on complaints involving bones, joints, and muscles. It concerns pain and problems related to posture, loading, and the way the body is structured.
The treatment is performed by a physician. This means a medical examination takes place first to determine if the complaints are suitable for this form of treatment and to ensure there is no other medical cause.
As the practitioner is a physician, they can also collaborate with other healthcare providers, such as GPs or physiotherapists. If necessary, referrals or coordination can take place, ensuring care remains safe and clear. For long-term complaints, this collaboration can be vital. Sometimes a combination of treatments is needed, and proper consultation allows for a more integrated approach.
Do complaints keep returning?
Do back, neck, or shoulder complaints keep returning? If so, it is important to look beyond temporary relief. Orthomanual medicine helps bring the body back into a better posture, which can reduce tension and create space for recovery.
For persistent complaints, an examination can provide clarity. Working together on recovery begins with insight into the source of the complaint. In our approach, the alignment of the spine is central, followed by a targeted treatment tailored to the nature and duration of the complaint.
Do complaints persist and do you want to know their true cause? Please feel free to contact us for a personal consultation.
Patient reviews
MSK Centrum scores an average of 9 out of 10.
The experiences of our patients demonstrate the impact a treatment can have.
MSK medicine has, so to speak, changed both my daily and athletic life. I was a chronic back patient and had already undergone extensive physiotherapy and manual therapy, but the complaints were never fully resolved. In just a few sessions at MSK, that was rectified! I could hardly believe it. I have also taken up judo again, and with all that falling, things can occasionally shift out of place. With an appointment about once or twice a year, the doctor realigns my back, neck, and hips, and I am ready to go again. I am now 63 years old and have been practicing judo again since I was 57. While judo might be somewhat extreme, what matters most is that I am no longer limited by pain during movement in my daily life.
A very skilled and caring physician! She helped me tremendously with my hip problem. This method has cured me of migraines and stomach issues. Highly recommended.
Very satisfied; my appointment requests receive prompt responses. Every effort is made to schedule them as soon as possible.
No more treatments offered than necessary and effective
I visited MSK Centrum due to long-term neck and shoulder complaints. During the initial consultation, extensive time was taken to map out my symptoms. The explanation regarding the cause of my complaints was clear and understandable. After a few treatments, I noticed a distinct improvement in my range of motion and the pain decreased. The practice feels professional and calm, and I felt that my concerns were taken seriously. I would certainly recommend MSK Centrum to people with similar complaints.
Frequently asked questions about orthomanual medicine
What is the difference between orthomanual medicine and physiotherapy?
This field of medicine focuses on the alignment of the spine and joints. Physiotherapy often focuses more on muscles and movement. Muscles can react to a misalignment; by correcting the alignment, tension can be reduced.
Is orthomanual medicine painful?
The treatment consists of gentle and targeted hand movements. There is no forceful cracking. Most people experience the treatment as mild.
How many treatments are required?
This depends on the complaint and its duration. Sometimes a few treatments are sufficient. For long-term complaints, more appointments may be necessary.
Which complaints is orthomanual medicine suitable for?
Orthomanual medicine is often applied to back pain, neck pain, shoulder complaints, and headaches originating from the neck, especially when complaints are long-standing or recurring.
When should you choose orthomanual medicine?
If complaints persist despite other treatments, it may be useful to investigate whether the alignment of the spine plays a role.