About osteopathy

What is osteopathy and how does a treatment work?

EEline, osteopath D.O.Last updated on 25 July 2026
Short answer

Osteopathy is a manual therapy in which the osteopath uses the hands to find and treat tension and restricted movement in muscles, joints and connective tissue. After a thorough examination I work in a targeted way to treat the complaints, in consultation with the patient. The aim is to bring your body back into balance, without medication.

Treatment time
± 45 minutes
Referral needed
No
Reimbursement
Partial, via health insurance fund
Approach
Manual, gentle

What is osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a manual therapy that starts from one idea: the body is a whole that can heal itself when it is free to move. The osteopath uses only the hands to find tension, blockages and restricted movement in muscles, joints and connective tissue.

How does a treatment work?

Every treatment begins with truly listening and a thorough examination. Only then do I work in a targeted way to treat the complaints, in consultation with the patient. With gentle techniques, restricted movement is released so that muscles relax and joints move freely again. You also receive advice for at home.

What can osteopathy help with?

Osteopathy focuses mainly on complaints with a mechanical cause: back and neck pain, headaches, jaw complaints, joint complaints and sports injuries. See the full overview on the complaints page.

When to see a doctor first?

Consult a (family) doctor first if you have

loss of strength or numbness, fever, unexplained weight loss, or pain after an accident. Osteopathy does not replace a medical diagnosis.

Frequently asked questions

Is osteopathy painful?
Usually not. The techniques are gentle. After the treatment you may feel some muscle stiffness on the first day, similar to after exercise.
Do I need a referral?
No, you can book an appointment directly. Bringing recent imaging or a referral letter does help.
How many sessions do I need?
That depends on your complaint. For acute complaints 1 to 3 sessions are often enough; for long-standing complaints a longer course may be needed.
Is osteopathy reimbursed?
Most health insurance funds reimburse part of the cost through supplementary insurance. More on the rates page.
Eline, osteopath
About the author

Eline, osteopath D.O.

Master in osteopathy, INAMI-recognised, Berchem and Wilrijk

Eline treats patients every day at her practice in Berchem and Wilrijk. She combines a thorough examination with a targeted, manual approach, in consultation with the patient.

Medical disclaimer. The information on this page is general and does not constitute personal medical advice. Every treatment starts with a personal intake conversation and examination. This page is purely informative and does not replace a diagnosis, advice or treatment by a doctor. In the event of warning signs, always consult a (family) doctor or the emergency department.

Ready to book an appointment?

Online, 24/7. Choose your location: Berchem or Wilrijk.