What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy promotes holistic health and is based on three philosophical principles:

• The body is an inseparable unit. Organs, muscles, fascia, bones, and the nervous system all form one body.

• Structure and function influence each other. Imagine a bicycle: if the chain jams (structure), you can’t pedal properly (function). Conversely, improper use can wear out and damage the chain. The same is true for the human body.

• The body has the ability to self-regulate. Our goal is to find ways to activate or support this process.

What Does Osteopathy Treat?

Since osteopaths view the body as a connected system—where all parts (bones, joints, muscles, connective tissue, organs, and the central nervous system) interact—each of these systems is considered in every examination and treatment.

THE MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM

It holds everything together with its muscles, joints, bones, and fascia.

THE INTERNAL ORGANS

Like joints, organs can become restricted and limit movement. By identifying and releasing tension and adhesions through visceral osteopathic treatment, the organs can move freely again.

THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

It plays a vital role in osteopathy as the control center of all bodily functions. With targeted manual techniques, communication between the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves can be improved and the body’s self-healing powers activated.

THE FASCIAE

There are three major fasciae layers that run throughout the body and are interconnected: superficial, middle, and deep. These layers often stick together and can trap nerves. Recently, I’ve found cupping especially helpful for fascia treatment because it works with traction rather than pressure. When the affected joint is also moved, the fasciae are stretched and knots and adhesions can be released.

What Can Be Affected by a Misaligned Atlas Vertebra?

The head weighs about 5 kg, and if it rests crookedly on the atlas vertebra, the spine is unevenly stressed and muscles must work harder to keep the head straight—like a leaning tower of building blocks held together by taut straps (in the body: muscles). This can lead to cervical spine problems, shoulder pain, or headaches.

NERVES

The vagus nerve (the main nerve of the parasympathetic nervous system) is responsible for regeneration and relaxation. It lowers blood pressure, helps us sleep, digests food, and ensures nutrients reach the bloodstream. In short, it’s essential for life.

A misalignment of the atlas can impair the vagus nerve’s function. Nausea, diarrhea, constipation, or vitamin deficiencies may not stem from diet but rather from a dysfunctional vagus nerve.

CIRCULATION

The vertebral artery, which supplies the brain with oxygen and nutrients, runs directly through the atlas vertebra. A misalignment can restrict this flow and cause headaches, dizziness, pressure in the head, or tinnitus.

The external jugular vein returns 90% of blood from the head back to the circulatory system. If narrowed due to a misaligned atlas, blood can pool in the head, creating tension and pressure.

Other Effective Treatments I Offer:

TRIGGER POINT THERAPY

This method targets small, tight muscle knots that can radiate pain to other body parts. Applying precise pressure relieves these tensions, reducing pain and restoring muscle function. Often, pain hides in a different area than its source—trigger point therapy helps uncover it.

KINESIO TAPING

This uses elastic tapes to support muscles, joints, and fasciae, reduce pain, and improve circulation and lymph flow—all without limiting mobility.
Over the years, I’ve found kinesio taping a helpful support, especially for stabilizing injuries or overstrained joints, ligaments, and tendons. It contributes significantly to the healing process.

DORN THERAPY

A gentle manual method to correct misalignments in vertebrae and joints. It takes a whole-body approach—from the feet, through the knees and hips, along the entire spine up to the head—aiming to restore natural alignment and function.

Will My Health Insurance Cover Osteopathic Treatments?

Most health insurers cover part of the cost. You can check whether and how much your provider reimburses at this link:
https://www.osteopathie-krankenkasse.de/kostenuebernahme/