Osteopath for sleep problems
When to consult an osteopath for sleep problems?
Do you have trouble falling asleep, do you wake up frequently at night, or are you unable to truly relax? Does it seem like sleeping pills are the only solution? Then osteopathy is certainly worth considering.
For my master’s degree, I conducted research on the effects of osteopathy on sleep problems. Participants slept an average of one hour longer per night, and in some cases, the complaints disappeared completely. Two of the twenty participants who had trouble falling asleep for years were still sleeping without problems six months later.
Based on this knowledge, I am currently offering a sleep coaching program.
Underlying causes of sleep problems
Sleep problems often have multiple causes. Stress, tension, or restlessness in the body can make it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. Physical complaints or disruptions in digestion can also negatively affect sleep quality.
My approach to sleep problems as an osteopath
Pain as an alarm signal
As an osteopath treating sleep problems, I first focus on physical factors that cause pain. The nervous system interprets pain as a signal of danger. As long as the body experiences pain, physical disruption, or clear symptoms, the system remains alert. In such a state, it is difficult to achieve deep and restorative sleep. An osteopath for sleep problems therefore also examines complaints such as neck and back pain, tension, or disruptions in the musculoskeletal system that can sustain this alarm signal.
Stimulating the vagus nerve
The vagus nerve plays an important role in rest and recovery. When this nerve is more active, the body enters relaxation mode. The vagus nerve is involved in regulating heart rate, blood pressure, muscle tension, and digestion. In this way, this nerve helps the body to calm down and create space for recovery and sleep. An osteopath for sleep problems works with targeted techniques to stimulate the vagus nerve and ensure optimal mobility and blood flow, so that it can function properly.
More relaxation, better sleep
Fewer stimuli from the body When physical disruption and tension decrease, fewer disturbing stimuli arise from within the body. Consider muscle tension, pressure on joints, or digestive restlessness. The nervous system then has fewer signals to process and can gradually calm down. An osteopath for sleep problems focuses on reducing these internal stimuli, allowing the body to switch to recovery during the night. Fewer internal stimuli provide the space to fall asleep and stay asleep more effectively.
Research into osteopathy for sleep problems
During my master’s program in osteopathy, I conducted research on the effects of osteopathic treatment in people with sleep problems. Twenty participants received three weekly treatments; a control group received only sleep advice.
After four weeks, the treated participants slept an average of one hour longer per night, and the improvement in sleep quality was significantly greater than in the group that only received advice.
Sleep problems treatment plan
Based on these insights, I offer a special program: four treatments for €343. Do you have supplementary insurance? Your health insurance often reimburses €160 for these treatments, meaning you only pay €183 yourself for the full program.
Each session lasts 45–60 minutes and preferably takes place weekly. The treatments are aimed at breaking a disrupted sleep pattern. Many people have become so accustomed to poor sleep that the body has started to see this as ‘normal.’ With these treatments – combined with advice – I give the nervous system a new impulse, allowing the body to return to a healthy sleep rhythm.
Towards a healthy and stable sleep rhythm
Even if you have already tried everything, improvement is often still possible once the body receives the right stimulus. Sleep problems don’t have to remain part of your daily life.
Curious about what I, as an osteopath, can do for you regarding sleep problems? Make an appointment or contact us for more information.