Sinus Pain
“Osteopathy allows the body to heal on a deeper level. Osteo improves the flow of lymphatic drainage and promotes better circulation in the sinus cavities, reducing pain and symptoms.”
– Dr. Jay Leung
What is Sinusitis?
Common Symptoms
Sinus pain is characterized by pain and pressure around the eyes, nose, cheeks, or forehead. Other common symptoms include headaches, congestion, sneezing, post-nasal drip, facial swelling, a runny nose, and fatigue.
The pain usually worsens when you lean over, move your head, or press against the area. You may also find yourself sensitive to light, smell, or sound.
Sinus pain is a common issue that many people experience, especially during cold and allergy season. It can be caused by too much moisture or bacteria in the sinus cavity, or can occur due to changes in pressure or swelling in the sinuses.
This pain can be localized around the nose or cheeks, or it can spread to the forehead or behind the eyes, making it a difficult issue to deal with.
An osteopath can provide relief from sinus pain by manipulating the sinuses and face muscles with gentle pressure. This type of treatment can help to reduce inflammation and improve drainage of the sinus passages, alleviating symptoms of sinus pain.
“In the case of sinus pain, an osteopath can help by addressing the underlying cause of the inflammation.”
– Dr. Caley Olesen
Osteo Treatment for Sinusitis
Osteopathic treatments for sinus pain focus on releasing tension in the muscles of your head, neck, and upper back. These treatments involve a clinician applying gentle pressure which allows the muscles to relax and the sinus cavities to open and drain, relieving pressure and sinus pain. treatments could include:
Cranial Osteopathy: The osteopath will gently move the bones in your head to improve the flow of fluids and blood in your sinuses, relieving sinus pain.
Osteopathic Massage: Massage can help reduce tension in your neck, shoulders, and other areas that are connected to your sinuses. This can improve circulation in your sinuses and reduce pressure and pain.
Soft Tissue Manipulation: Osteopaths may use stretching and other techniques to help loosen tight muscles and tendons that can be contributing to sinus pain.
Visceral Manipulation: This type of manipulation can help improve drainage of the nose and sinuses by releasing tightness and restrictions in your body’s connective tissues.
Skeletal Adjustments: Osteopaths may use a variety of techniques to realign the spine, neck, and other areas to relieve pain and tension in your sinuses.
Stretching Exercises: Osteopaths may suggest specific stretches to help reduce muscle tension and pain in your sinuses.
Postural Corrections: Osteopaths may recommend changes in your posture to improve your breathing and sinus function, and consequently reduce your pain.
What to Expect During an Osteopath Visit for Sinus Issues
History Taking: During your first visit to your Local Osteo for sinus issues, you can expect to have your complete medical history taken, including information on any pre-existing conditions, relevant medical history, lifestyle, and stressors.
Physical Exam: Once your medical history is taken, your osteopath will proceed to do a physical exam of your neck, jaw, sinuses, and ears. During this part of the visit, they may also palpate the facial muscles to detect tenderness or tightness.
Postural Evaluations: Osteopaths often assess posture and position to correct any asymmetrical burden that may be contributing to sinus issues. During this evaluation, you may be asked to move into different positions, and your Osteo may observe and palpate for areas of tension, pain, or tenderness.
Range of Motion Testing: Your osteopath will also perform range of motion tests to assess the scope of movement and flexibility in your neck and upper back. This allows them to determine what areas may be contributing to your sinus issues.
Diagnosis: After the physical exam is complete, your osteopath will reach a diagnosis. Depending on their findings, they may suggest additional tests or treatments.
Self-Care Exercises: Depending on your particular situation, your osteopath may suggest additional self-care exercises to help improve your sinus health. This could include nasal irrigation, facial exercises, or a few simple lifestyle changes.
Lifestyle Advice: The osteopath may suggest lifestyle changes that could help to alleviate or reduce sinus issues. This could include diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes.
Follow Up Care: Your osteopath may recommend follow-up visits or treatments. This will depend on the severity of your sinus issues and the results from your initial visit.