“Can osteopathic manipulative treatment help me with my rheumatoid arthritis? ”
I have rheumatoid arthritis, and I experience a lot of pain around my joints because of the inflammation. Can this treatment help me ease the pain?
4 Answers
There have been RA patients who have benefited from OMT. Depending on the severity of disease it may require synergistic pharmaceutical treatment as well.
RM Hiserote, DO
RM Hiserote, DO
Hello! Yes, I have seen many RA patients improve with osteopathy. We can often help removed the inflammatory factors from the joint along with RA medications.
By helping reduce strains around joints and improving mobility, this inherently improves the circulation of inflammatory proteins that can get stuck in joints and cause more pain.
Absolutely, but in concert with medically accepted options, such as a sound medical workup that establishes a "working diagnosis" of rheumatoid arthritis. This includes a team of a family or internal medicine (primary care) and rheumatology physicians who usually manage your medication and make recommendations for options. One non-pharmacologic (no drugs) option is a unique hands-on osteopathic manipulative treatment, or "O.M.T." for short. Board-certified D.O.'s, or osteopathic physicians, who utilize this manual skill can definitely be of help here. It can supplement formal physical therapy, such as that on land or in the water (Aquatherapy). The American Academy of Osteopathy in Indianapolis, IN can help you depending on where you live.