Osteopathy

Find the Best Osteopaths in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a holistic approach to health and wellness that focuses on treating the entire body, not just its parts. Its core principles emphasize the interconnected relationship between structure and function, using manual therapy techniques to help patients achieve better overall health and well-being. Osteopaths believe that by restoring the body’s natural balance, it can operate optimally and experience less pain. In turn, this leads to improved health and well-being.

Osteopathy is becoming increasingly popular in the United Arab Emirates, with more clinics and healthcare professionals offering treatments in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi. This guide will help you understand what osteopathy is, the significance it holds in the UAE, and how to select a suitable practitioner for your needs. So, let’s take a closer look!

Osteopaths use a variety of techniques including gentle massaging, stretching, joint mobilization, and manipulation to treat different physical conditions. Osteopathy can help with a range of musculoskeletal issues like back and neck pain, arthritis, sciatica, and other muscular-skeletal problems. It can also help with headaches and migraines, postural alignment, digestive issues, and stress.

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Types of Osteopathic Treatment

Osteopathic treatment often involves manual therapy, including soft tissue techniques, stretching, and mobilization or manipulation of joints. This hands-on approach is designed to improve circulation, correct altered biomechanics, and reduce or eliminate pain. The techniques used may vary based on the patient’s condition and the practitioner’s preference.

There are a few different types of osteopathic treatment:

  • Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT): This involves using the hands to diagnose, treat, or prevent illness or injury. OMT can help people of all ages and backgrounds. It can treat muscle pain, help patients with asthma or sinus disorders, and even soothe the symptoms of migraines.
  • Structural Osteopathy – Working with the musculoskeletal system, this technique addresses joint restrictions, muscle tension, and imbalances in the body.
  • Cranial Osteopathy – This approach focuses on the delicate movements of the skull, spine, and sacrum, to improve the circulation of cerebrospinal fluid.
  • Visceral Osteopathy – This method involves the manipulation of internal organs to improve their function and reduce any restrictions.
  • Functional Osteopathy – Optimizing the body’s natural self-regulating mechanisms, this technique is used to address imbalances with gentle and non-invasive techniques.

The four branches of osteopathy – Structural, Cranial, Visceral, and Functional, each offer unique approaches to restoring and maintaining health by focusing on different aspects of the body. Structural Osteopathy concentrates on the musculoskeletal system to address physical imbalances. Cranial Osteopathy aims to improve the circulation of cerebrospinal fluid through the gentle manipulation of the skull, spine, and sacrum. Visceral Osteopathy focuses on internal organs, aiming to improve their function through specific manipulations. Lastly, Functional Osteopathy utilizes non-invasive techniques to optimize the body’s natural self-regulating mechanisms. Each of these techniques represents an integral part of osteopathy’s holistic approach to health and well-being.

 

Importance of Osteopathy in the UAE

Osteopathy is becoming increasingly popular in the UAE for a variety of reasons. Growing awareness of holistic healthcare options as well as the fast-paced lifestyle in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi have contributed to its rise in popularity. Osteopathic treatments not only help alleviate existing conditions but also focus on preventative care, emphasizing overall health and wellness. Stressful lifestyles have also made osteopathy an appealing option as it helps to provide relief and relaxation from tension and stress. The UAE’s focus on preventative healthcare has further highlighted the importance of osteopathy in this region.

Residents of the UAE, like anywhere else, may find osteopathic treatment helpful for many reasons. One of these could be the lifestyle associated with urbanized regions, which often leads to a sedentary routine, leading to musculoskeletal problems like back pain, neck pain, and other related health issues. For athletes or physically active individuals, osteopathy can aid in treating injuries and enhancing performance. Additionally, the stress of modern life can lead to conditions like headaches or migraines, which osteopathy can help manage.

Osteopathy for Babies

Osteopathy for babies and young children is a specialized area of practice known as pediatric osteopathy. Trained osteopaths are skilled in detecting and releasing tensions and restrictions in the body that may have occurred during birth or from the position in the womb. They use gentle manipulative and craniosacral techniques that are safe and comfortable for the baby.

Conditions that osteopaths may help with in newborns and infants include:

  1. Feeding Difficulties: Babies can sometimes have difficulty latching on or can show signs of discomfort during feeds. An osteopath can help by gently releasing tensions in the neck, jaw, and cranial bones, thus aiding more comfortable feeding.

  2. Sleeping Problems: Babies with physical discomfort may struggle to settle and sleep. Osteopathy may help ease physical discomforts that disturb your baby’s sleep.

  3. Digestive issues: Conditions such as reflux and constipation can be improved through osteopathic treatment by encouraging better motility and function of the digestive system.

  4. Head Shape Asymmetry (Plagiocephaly): Some babies may develop a flattened head due to continual pressure on one spot. While severe cases may require medical intervention, osteopathy can help with mild to moderate cases by releasing tension and improving function in the related tissues and structures.

  5. Behavioural problems and developmental delays: Sometimes, unresolved birth strains and physical discomfort can lead to behavioral issues or delay in reaching developmental milestones like crawling or walking. Osteopathy can support the baby’s physical comfort, potentially easing the achievement of developmental goals.

In the hands of a trained practitioner, pediatric osteopathy is safe. The techniques used for babies are very gentle. Osteopaths are trained to screen for medical conditions and will tell you if you need to see another health professional such as your doctor or a pediatrician.

As always, parents should ensure the osteopath they visit is fully licensed and regulated, and specifically trained in pediatric osteopathy. Parents should also communicate with the osteopath regarding their baby’s medical history and any concerns they might have, to ensure the most effective and appropriate care for their child.

Osteopathic Medicines

The practice of osteopathy in the UAE is more aligned with the UK and Australian understanding of the discipline, focusing on manual therapies for musculoskeletal issues, rather than the comprehensive medical practice found in the United States where osteopathic physicians (DOs) are fully licensed medical doctors.

In the UAE, osteopaths are allied health professionals who are regulated by the healthcare authorities in their emirate, such as the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) or the Health Authority – Abu Dhabi (HAAD). They provide non-invasive, drug-free treatment and are recognized for their expertise in treating a range of conditions, particularly those related to the musculoskeletal system.

Osteopaths in the UAE work in private clinics, sports clubs, and sometimes in hospitals. They use a variety of manual techniques to improve mobility, decrease pain, and improve health overall. This may include massage, stretching, and manipulation of the muscles and joints. They also provide advice on posture, exercise, diet, and lifestyle.

However, as the practice of osteopathic medicine as recognized in the United States (i.e., osteopathic physicians who can prescribe medications, perform surgeries, etc.) is different, it’s crucial to note that an osteopath in the UAE will not have the same practice scope as a U.S. DO. For example, in the UAE, osteopaths do not prescribe medications or perform surgeries.

Osteopathy can be beneficial for various health issues such as back pain, postural problems, sports injuries, headaches, and even specific conditions like digestive issues, circulatory problems, or neuralgia. Many residents in the UAE live a fast-paced, urbanized lifestyle, which can often lead to musculoskeletal problems, stress, and associated health issues that osteopathy can help manage.

As with any health professional, it is vital to ensure any osteopath you consult in the UAE is fully licensed and regulated by the relevant health authority. It’s also worth checking whether osteopathic treatment is covered under your private health insurance policy, as many providers in the UAE do cover osteopathy.

List of Conditions Fixed through Osteopathy

Osteopathy can be beneficial for various health issues such as back pain, postural problems, sports or work injuries, headaches, or even specific conditions like digestive issues, circulatory problems, or neuralgia. Osteopathy can help address a wide range of conditions, including but not limited to:

  • Back and neck pain – Osteopathic treatments can help to restore balance to the musculoskeletal system, reducing inflammation that often causes aches and pains.
  • Joint pain and arthritis – Osteopathic treatments can be used to improve mobility while also helping to reduce joint pain and stiffness caused by arthritis.
  • Headaches and migraines – Osteopathic treatments can help release tension in the head, neck and shoulder muscles that could be contributing to migraine or headache pain.
  • Sports injuries – Osteopathic treatments can help promote the healing of injured muscles and tendons, as well as improve overall performance.
  • Postural problems – Osteopathic treatments can help restore balance to the body, thus promoting a better posture and reducing any stress or tension in the neck and shoulders.
  • Digestive issues – Osteopathic treatments can help to stimulate the digestive system, as well as reduce any tension that could be contributing to digestive issues.
  • Repetitive strain injuries – Osteopathic treatments can help to reduce inflammation and restore balance to the affected areas, leading to improved recovery time.
  • Pregnancy-related discomfort – Osteopathic treatments can help to reduce pain associated with pregnancy and improve the ease of delivery.
  • Pediatric conditions (e.g., colic, reflux, sleep disturbances) – Osteopathic treatments can be used to identify any imbalances in infants and children, helping to alleviate their discomfort. As well as this, osteopathic treatments can also provide relief from certain digestive and sleep-related issues.

Choosing the Right Osteopathic Practitioner

When selecting an osteopathic practitioner, it is important to consider their qualifications and experience; ensure they hold a recognized degree in osteopathy and are registered with a professional organization, and ask about their experience in treating specific conditions or working with particular age groups. The treatment approach should also be discussed to ensure it aligns with your needs and preferences, while communication should be established to ensure you feel comfortable discussing your concerns, and that the practitioner can explain the treatment process clearly. Additionally, the location and accessibility of the clinic or healthcare provider should be taken into account, as well as any potential scheduling constraints. Overall, it is vital to select a practitioner who can provide the best care and treatment for your specific needs.

Clinics and Hospitals for Osteopathic Treatments

The UAE offers a wide selection of clinics and hospitals dedicated to providing osteopathic treatments in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. To help you make the best decision, we have compiled a comprehensive list of reliable healthcare providers here:

PHHC – Osteopathic Center
Building 24 Dubai Healthcare City – Umm Hurair 2 – Dubai Healthcare City
Dubai
04 552 9210
https://phhc-dhcc.com/webssl/

Osteopathic Health Centre Dubai
Osteopathic Health Center Villa 969, Al Wasl Rd., Um Suqeim 2
Dubai
+971 4 348 7366 +971 56 547 1616
https://www.osteopathydubai.com/

Zain Panjwani Osteopath
Joint Space Polyclinic LLC,Unit 83 Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz Industrial 1
Dubai
+971 4 394 3888 +971 58 594 3881
https://www.jointspace.ae/

Beverley Palmer Osteopath Dubai
Koster Clinic – Villa 111 26th St – opposite King’s School – Umm Suqeim – Umm Suqeim 3
Dubai
+971 4 388 1887
https://www.osteopathdubai.com/

Osteopath Ambra Perraro
Building 40 Dubai Healthcare City – 26th St – Umm Hurair 2 – Dubai Healthcare City
Dubai
+971 4 420 1010
https://www.osteopathambraperraro.com/

Matthew Clarke Osteopath
Up & Running Sports Medical Centre 675 Al Wasl Road Jumeirah
Dubai
+971 4 518 5400
http://www.dubaiosteopath.ae/

Physiowell Chiropractic & Physiotherapy
Al Manara Area, Al Wasl Road, Villa 947
Dubai
+971(4)2692121
https://physiowell.ae/our-treatment/osteopathy/

Up and Running
675 Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah
Dubai
04 518 5400 050 2022 397
https://upandrunningdubai.com/osteopathy/

Mediclinic
Dubai Mall, Fashion Parking, Level 7
Dubai
800 1999 04-4495222
https://www.mediclinic.ae/en/corporate/services-and-specialities/osteopathy0.html

Nuno Goncalves – Osteopath
Dubai Physiotherapy and Family Medicine Clinic
1st Floor, Town Centre Jumeirah, Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai
04 349 6333
https://www.dxbphysio.com/therapist/nuno-goncalves-osteopath/

Anatomy Rehab
Office M-30, Golden Mile 1
Dubai
056-409 8353 055-686 1886
https://www.anatomyrehab.ae/osteopathy/

Joint Space Polyclinic
Unit 83 Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz Industrial 1
Dubai
+971 4 394 3888 +971 58 594 3881
https://www.jointspace.ae/services-3/joint-space-osteopathy-in-dubai/

Cleveland Clinic
59 Hamouda Bin Ali Al Dhaheri St – Al Maryah Island – Abu Dhabi Global Market Square
Abu Dhabi
+971 800 82223 +971 2 659 0200
https://www.clevelandclinicabudhabi.ae/en/pages/default.aspx

Aster Clinic
United Square Apartments, Opposite – Khalidiyah St
Abu Dhabi
+971 4 440 0500 02 626 6672
https://www.asterclinic.ae/clinic/asterclinickhalidiya/

Perfect Balance
Tamouh Tower – 21st Floor, Building No.12، Al – Hazza ‘ Bin Zayed The First St – Marina Square
Abu Dhabi
02-441 3316
https://www.perfectbalance.ae/

Lotus Holistic Alternative Medical Center
A – 20th St – Khalifa City – SE-41
Abu Dhabi
+971 2 557 9801
https://www.lotusholistic.ae/

Al Mazroui Medical
First Floor,Mazroui pharmacy building- شارع فاطمة بنت مبارك
Abu Dhabi
+971 2 672 3232
http://www.almazrouimedicalcenter.ae/

Sarah Benngard OSTEOPATH
Villa No : 15 Al Karama Street
Abu Dhabi
(+971) 02 444 5513 +971 56 383 1800
https://osteopath-abudhabi.com/

Sylvia Labat
Mangrove Village, Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi
+971 561840386
https://www.sylvialabat.com/

Acacia Medical Center
Villa No : 15 Al Karama Street
Abu Dhabi
(+971) 02 444 5513 (+971) 56 383 1800
https://acaciamedicalcenter.com/

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As the popularity of osteopathy increases in the UAE, it is important to understand its fundamentals and how it can benefit your overall health. Before selecting an osteopathic practitioner in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, be sure to consider their qualifications, experience, and treatment approaches. With the right care and support, you can achieve optimal health and enjoy a better quality of life.