Can an osteopath help with digestive complaints?
In certain cases an osteopath can contribute to the treatment of functional digestive complaints such as reflux, heartburn, bloating and abdominal pain. The osteopath works gently on the diaphragm, the mobility of the abdominal organs and the tension in the surrounding structures. This does not replace medical examination for persistent or severe complaints.
Which digestive complaints does an osteopath treat?
Osteopathy focuses on functional complaints: complaints where the organs themselves are healthy, but the interplay of the diaphragm, the abdominal organs and the nervous system is out of balance. In the case of digestion this may include:
- Reflux and heartburn, a burning or regurgitating sensation, often linked to tension around the diaphragm.
- Bloating, a tense or full feeling in the abdomen after eating.
- Functional abdominal pain, abdominal pain without a demonstrable structural cause.
- A tense or sluggish feeling, when digestion feels heavy or laboured.
- Complaints linked to stress and posture, where tension and a stooped posture put strain on the diaphragm.
What are functional digestive complaints?
Functional complaints are complaints without a demonstrable structural disease. The stomach, oesophagus and intestines are then not damaged, but their function is disturbed: the diaphragm is tense, the abdominal organs move less smoothly or the nervous system reacts oversensitively. Stress, posture and breathing often play a role in this.
Important: a doctor makes the diagnosis. Only a doctor can rule out an underlying disease. Only once a structural cause has been ruled out can osteopathy play a complementary role in relieving the functional complaints.
How does osteopathy work for digestive complaints?
An osteopath looks at the whole body and not just the abdomen. Digestion is connected to the diaphragm, the lower ribs, the back and the nervous system. Tension or stiffness in those structures can amplify the feeling of reflux, pressure or a bloated abdomen. That is why every treatment begins with a thorough interview and an examination.
The osteopath then works gently and manually: with calm techniques on the diaphragm, the mobility of the abdominal organs and the surrounding tension. The aim is not to cure, but to help relieve the complaints and support the body. You also receive advice about nutrition, posture, breathing and stress to use at home.
When to see the (general) doctor first?
Always have persistent or new digestive complaints assessed by a doctor first, so that a serious cause can be ruled out. Some signs call for medical examination without delay.
Consult a (general) doctor first if you have:
- blood in the stool or in the vomit;
- black or tarry stools;
- unexplained weight loss;
- persistent vomiting;
- difficulty swallowing;
- severe or sudden abdominal pain;
- fever;
- a lastingly changed bowel pattern.
These complaints may point to a serious cause. A doctor must rule that out first. Osteopathy does not replace a medical diagnosis or treatment.
How does your appointment go?
We discuss your complaints, your history, your nutrition and any examinations by the doctor.
We gently examine the diaphragm, the abdomen, the ribs and the back to find tension and restricted mobility.
Calm, manual techniques to reduce tension and support the mobility of the abdominal organs.
Concrete tips about nutrition, eating habits, breathing and stress to help prevent complaints.
What can you do yourself?
- Eat smaller meals and spread them over the day instead of a few large portions.
- Eat calmly and chew well, so that digestion is less burdened.
- Do not lie down straight after eating, preferably wait a few hours.
- Move enough, a quiet walk helps get digestion going.
- Work on stress management, because tension and breathing affect the abdomen.
- For reflux, raising the head of the bed slightly can provide relief.
Frequently asked questions about digestion and osteopathy
Can osteopathy cure reflux?
Is there scientific evidence for osteopathy for digestive complaints?
How many sessions do I need?
Do I need to see my GP first?
Is osteopathy for digestive complaints reimbursed in Belgium?
Eline, osteopath D.O.
Eline treats patients daily at her practice in Berchem and Wilrijk. She combines a thorough examination with a gentle, manual approach and, for digestive complaints, works together with GPs and specialists where needed.
Medical disclaimer. The information on this page is general and does not constitute personal medical advice. Every treatment starts with a personal intake interview and examination. This page is purely informative and does not take your personal situation into account. It does not replace a diagnosis, advice or treatment by a doctor. In case of warning signs, always consult a (general) doctor or the emergency department.
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