Osteopathy supports women during perimenopause and menopause by addressing musculoskeletal, circulatory, and hormonal changes through a holistic hands on and lifestyle changes approach. We focus on improving mobility, reducing tension, and enhancing blood supply plus venous and lymphatic drainage. In these ways, osteopathy helps a person's body function better and can alleviate symptoms such as joint pain, stiffness, and muscle tension. Osteopaths also provide guidance on posture, ergonomics, and lifestyle adjustments to promote well-being during this often complex transitional phase of life.
What are some common physical symptoms women experience during perimenopause and menopause, and how can osteopathy help?
Women often experience joint pain, muscle tension, hot flashes, and changes in body composition during perimenopause and menopause. Osteopathy helps by using gentle hands-on approaches such as cranial and biodynamic osteopathy, joint mobilisation, and myofascial release which remove many of the impediments preventing the body from healing itself. This also improves mobility and reduces discomfort. By addressing postural imbalances and tension, osteopathy can alleviate physical strain, improve circulation, and support overall quality of life.
How can osteopathic treatments help manage stress and improve sleep quality during menopause?
Osteopathy can reduce stress and improve sleep by balancing the autonomic nervous system and relieving physical tension. Hands-on approaches including gentle cranial and biodynamic osteopathy promote relaxation, lower cortisol levels, and encourage better sleep patterns by calming the sympathetic nervous system, which is your ‘fright fight and flight’ aspect and enhancing the parasympathetic nervous system, which is the rest and digest aspect of your autonomic or ‘automatic’ nervous system. Often we don't realise how much the autonomic nervous system affects how our body is able to function. If you are functioning in a sympathetic dominant state it can adversely affect your physiology, every moment of your day and night. When we are going through peri and/or menopause we need our body to be functioning as well as possible. Then the transition is much easier. Osteopaths may also suggest lifestyle modifications, breathing exercises, and mindfulness techniques to support the autonomic nervous system and enhance restorative sleep.
What osteopathic techniques support hormone balance and overall well-being during menopause?
Osteopathic approaches such as visceral manipulation, soft tissue release, cranial and biodynamic osteopathy aim to enhance circulation and lymphatic flow, supporting hormone regulation and systemic balance. Gentle joint adjustments and myofascial techniques can alleviate physical restrictions that may impact the body's natural hormonal and metabolic functions, contributing to overall well-being during menopause.
How can osteopathy help restore energy and vitality during menopause?
Fatigue during menopause often stems from excess physical tension, poor circulation, or disrupted sleep. Osteopathy restores energy by relieving tension, improving posture, and calming the nervous system and enhancing blood flow to vital organs to aid sleep. Techniques to relax the diaphragm and improve respiratory function can boost oxygenation and energy levels, while guidance on movement and improving exercise over time, supports long-term vitality.
