Non-Medical Osteopathy
Non-Medical Osteopathy is a type of alternative medicine that emphasizes physical manipulation of the body's muscle tissue and bones. Parts of osteopathy, such as craniosacral therapy, have no therapeutic value. The techniques are based on an ideology created by Andrew Taylor Still (1828–1917) which posits the existence of a "myofascial continuity"—a tissue layer that "links every part of the body with every other part". (from Wikipedia)
- See also: Osteopathic Physicians
Archived Q&A and Reviews
Osteopath for new born and new mom
Feb 2012
Hello, Do you have a recommendation for a good osteopathic doctor (OD) who will be able to care for my new born (working on his skull and skeleton, colic if any). Also, if you have any OD recommendations for me, post-labor, to help with my sacral region, that would be helpful. El Cerrito/Berkeley/Oakland region. Thank you.
I enthusiastically recommend Holly Edson. She worked on both myself and my newborn daughter. I had a separated pubic symphysis and my baby had uncomfortable gas, and she did wonders for both of us and was very gentle. I was amazed at her subtlety and effectiveness. I remember that she is very committed to mothers and babies, and was also willing to come to my home, which was hugely helpful. Here is her website: http://www.iahp.com/holly--edson/ Congratulations and Happy Healing~ Laura from Berkeley
I highly recommend Catherine Henderson on Solano Ave. She was educated in Great Britain, but not all credentials are accepted here. She is, however, very skilled and gentle with babies. Took my baby to her after a traumatic birth and long hospital stay, and prior to surgeries. Made a huge difference.
[Editor Note Nov 2017: Catherine Henderson has notified us that she is no longer practicing in California.]
I highly recommend Catherine Henderson in Berkeley or Brian Esty in San Francisco. Years of experience, an amazing touch,successful outcomes.They are simply the best. What more can I say? orchardann
June 2004
Re: Where can I get craniosacral massage?
You can't beat Catherine Henderson --she's an osteopath, but I understand that it's similar to Craeo-sacral work--for infants. She helped our (then 2 month old) son out immesurably after a fall. I understand she has a huge waiting list, but I also know she will see infants fairly quickly if there has been a birth (or other) trauma. Good luck! Abby
[Editor Note Nov 2017: Catherine Henderson notified us that she is no longer practicing in California.]
Re: Craniosacral for fibromyalgia
Cranialosacral bodywork has helped my mother with her fibromyalgia tremendously. Most chronic illnesses respond to more than one type of treatment at the same time. If you can find an osteopath in your hmo, that might be worth looking into. Osteopath's are Md's that also include alternative medicine/practices in their work. You get the best of both worlds. Unfortunately, even in the East Bay, finding an osteopath that is covered by health insurance isn't easy. There is a good osteopath on Telegraph and Prince (I think). Her office is parallel to the Blue Oak Therapy center. You could call or stop by and ask them what health insurance they take. Beth