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Patient patients: an Osteopath’s dream

The ‘Next Day Delivery’ culture of expecting results at the click of a button is becoming increasingly prevalent.  Online shopping, crash diets, and intensive driving courses – we’re all eager for immediate solutions and not prepared to wait for results.  And our approach to recovery from injury is no different.

At Robin Kiashek Clinics we often see patients who are very keen to find immediate fixes to injury.  Often so as not to disrupt their exercise routines. But this just isn’t always possible when it comes to injuries.

My approach is to look beyond the injury and take into consideration the emotional wellbeing and lifestyle of the patient.  This enables me to look at ways to prevent a re-occurrence.

Emotional Behaviour and Contributing Factors

Many patients who have a sports-related injury feel that exercise is vital for them in combatting and controlling stress.  But overdoing it at the gym after a long day at work is quite often a factor in causing the initial injury.  And then the patient is reluctant to rest properly because they feel it impacts their ability to manage their stress.  And so the cycle continues.  But rest is a very important part of recovery.  So, in addition to treating their injury, I encourage my patients to engage in new ways of managing stress.  Which means that, even when they are recovered, they have alternative ways of coping with their daily life.

Autogenic therapy is a style of relaxation therapy.  I work with patients over a course of eight sessions to teach them a set of simple mental and physical exercises and techniques, with the aim of taking steps towards restoring and healing body and mind. With a wide range of allied therapies like autogenic training on offer, tackling stress, anxiety and other emotional factors can be incorporated into a patient’s treatment plan.  Ensuring that recovery is emotionally, as well as physically, beneficial.

Lifestyle

My aim is to not only to address current symptoms, but also prevent illness or further injury.   I may use therapies such as Naturopathy, where I work with the patient to identify areas that might be undermining their health.  This could be diet, lifestyle choices, medical history, and physical or emotional circumstances.  The plans I develop for my patients are designed to encourage the body to heal itself and to help guard against future illness or injury.  And our patients agree!

“Professional, highly skilled, holistic – Robin’s treatments have helped reduce my back and neck pain which had plagued me for years. He has taught me how to reduce re-occurrences through exercise and lifestyle change.  I was very despondent before I came to see him and he continues to help me hugely; I’m very grateful.”

Have you picked up an injury or feel that your lifestyle may be impacting your overall health?  Why not book an appointment at either our Central London or East Finchley clinic?  Our specific osteopathy approach can be highly effective in identifying wider health issues and therefore instrumental in fixing the whole self.  Although we still can’t make any promises in terms of next day delivery recovery!

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What are the brrr-iliant benefits of cold water therapy?

Plunging yourself into cold water might not necessarily be on the top of your to-do list (and who can blame you?!).

But with the recent lockdowns forcing the temporary closure of indoor swimming pools, there’s been a rise in the number of people turning to open water swimming.

As shown by  recent stats, 45% of swimmers increased how much they swam outside in 2020. The same stats estimated that outdoor swimming in the UK has increased by between 1.5 and 3 times since 2019. And there’s good reason. According to a small number of studies, celebrities and athletes – cold water therapy has a myriad of health benefits.

What exactly is cold water therapy?

Cold water therapy – which can sometimes be referred to as cold hydrotherapy – is the practice of using water that’s around 15 degrees to treat health conditions or stimulate health benefits.

Despite the recent hype around the practice, cold water therapy is nothing new. It’s actually been around for a couple thousand years. But recent modifications of this practice include short and sharp cold showers, outdoor swims and cold-water immersion therapy sessions.

 

So, why the buzz?

The exact benefits of cold-water therapy are long disputed in the health industry. But according to certain enthusiasts, taking a cold water dip is the answer to many things.

On a recent episode of Gwyneth Paltrow’s The Goop Lab, the actor and entrepreneur sent a group of her employees to Lake Tahoe in Nevada to experience to popular Wim Hof method.

 

The Wim Hof method

This method is based on a combination of extreme cold-water therapy and specialised breathing techniques. It was the brainchild of Mr Wim Hof – a former athlete – who swears by this regime and raves about the many benefits it can bring.

In the episode he says: “Cold water is a great way to learn to deal with stress. If you learn how to breathe deep, you can go into the cold water and adapt. You become the alchemist of life itself.”

 

So, what exactly are the benefits of cold water therapy?

According to Mr Wim Hof, cold water therapy can:

  • Improve your circulation
  • Reduce inflammation in your body
  • Higher energy levels
  • Deepen your sleep

 

However, it’s important to note that not much research has been done to solidify these claims. But science does suggest that it can:

  • Lessen muscle soreness – a 2011 study found that cyclists who took part in intense training sessions had decreased soreness after they immersed in cold water for 10 minutes. A later 2016 study reported the same thing.
  • Ease symptoms of depression – some studies have suggested that cold open water swimming has helped to ease symptoms of depression and anxiety. In one study, a woman who had experience anxiety and depression from the age of 17 turned to open water swimming aged 24. The study confirmed that over time, her symptoms decreased significantly.
  • Cold water can boost your immune system – A handful of studies have suggested that daily doses of cold water could bolster your immune system over a period of weeks or months.

 

To take the plunge or not to take the plunge

Keen swimmer and Osteopath Robin Kiashek says: “The jury is still out on whether cold water therapy is the answer to a wide range of health problems.

 

“But as highlighted above, there are a handful of health benefits that cannot be disputed. I myself have been swimming for as long as I can remember. With indoor swimming pools now reopening, I can’t say I will be practicing my front crawl in my nearest lake – but I might try turning the shower temperature down a few notches.”

 

Robin Kiashek has more than 25 years’ experience in his field. He believes in taking a holistic approach when it comes to treating his clients. If you are suffering from a series of health issues – whether it’s headaches, aches and pains or long covid – don’t hesitate to get in touch.

 

NB: Cold water swimming should be done with guidance from a professional and consider that certain medical conditions and ages should be taken into consideration.

 

 

 

 

 

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To treat, or not to treat? That is the question for Osteopaths

The title of this blog is not just a play on words from one of Shakespeare’s most famous plays. It is also the question that most Osteopaths ask themselves each time they see a new patient.

Osteopaths take a holistic approach when it comes to treating musculoskeletal disorders relating to muscles, ligaments, nerves joints cartilage, tendons and the general skeletal system.

They also identify any underlying factors to get to the root cause of the problem. Which is why Osteopathy can not only help ease specific conditions, but also work towards improving your overall health.

 

Extensive training

 

Osteopaths are trained to degree level, with courses usually lasting four or five years.  These are a combination of academic studies, research and more than 1,000 hours of hands-on patient-facing training.

An important part of the training is about establishing whether the symptoms that patients present with require further medical investigation or a referral.

Registered Osteopath Robin Kiashek graduated in 1996 with a Bachelor of Science Honours Degree in Osteopathic Medicine. He has since gone on to add a number of other qualification strings to his bow. Robin said: “I work with patients to address their presenting symptoms and understand causative factors to promote ongoing health.

“Much of my initial process is around ruling out other pathologies. As a member of the General Osteopathic Council – the body that promotes patient safety by setting, maintaining and developing standards of osteopathic practice and conduct – I am committed to helping my patients achieved optimal physical and emotional wellbeing.”

 

Referral required

 

At an initial consultation Robin spends around 30 minutes taking a detailed patient history.  This includes physical and emotional lifestyle factors.  Then he moves on to a physical examination.

And if there any indicators that further investigation or medical involvement would be appropriate then he won’t hesitate to make a referral.

For example, earlier this year, a patient came to Robin after two trips to a local hospital with lower back and abdominal pain. Both times she had been sent home without being examined and painkillers had been prescribed.

Robin explains: “I conducted a physical examination and it was immediately clear that this pain was not going to be cured by painkillers.  I wrote a letter referring the patient to A&E. The diagnosis was eventually a stone in the ureter. And that required follow-up treatment.”

 

Face to face with your Osteopath

 

Osteopaths are classed as key workers. Therefore, Robin has been able to keep both his clinics open during lockdown. He adheres to all government guidelines of course and, being a sole practitioner, patients are not sitting in a crowded waiting room.

 

Obviously, changes and concessions to face to face medical appointments had to be made during the past year.  But it’s reassuring for patients to know that face to face Osteopathy is still available should they be in pain.  And that Osteopaths not only have the skills to provide treatment but also the training to know when to refer.

 

So, patients really are in safe hands.

 

If you are in pain then don’t hesitate to get in touch.

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Suffering from shin splints? Don’t run away from the problem!

Along with runner’s knee and Achilles tendinitis – shin splints are thought to be one of the most common health injuries runners incur.

Shin splints – which are often more formally referred to as medial tibial stress syndrome – are a very common overuse injury. The term refers to a pain that occurs in the front or inner parts of your lower legs, along your shinbone.

According to the latest data, shin splints account for around 11% of injuries in male runners and 17% of injuries in female runners. It’s also prevalent in dancers and those who work in the military.

What are the symptoms?

If you suffer from shin splints, you’ll most likely have a dull pain, ache or throbbing feeling along the front or inner part of your shinbone. But you might notice a few other symptoms including:

  • A pain that gets worse when you exercise
  • Tenderness to touch
  • In some cases, mild swelling can occur
  • The pain seems to go away when you rest

What is the cause of shin splints?

Shin splints are caused by repetitive stress on your shinbone and the tissues that attach your muscles to the bone.

They occur because you are putting too much stress and strain on your shin bone and the tissues around it.

 

Why do shin splints occur?

Usually, shin splints flare up because you have overexerted yourself or have pushed your usual exercise limits that little bit further. Generally speaking, you are more likely to get shin splints if you:

  • Have started exercising after not being active for some time
  • Run or jump on hard surfaces
  • Have a poor running technique
  • Are wearing shoes that don’t offer you enough cushioning and support
  • Don’t rest enough between your exercise sessions

How do you get rid of shin splints or prevent them?

In many cases, shin splints can go away with rest. According to the NHS, if you suffer from shin splints you could also try:

  • Wearing trainers that cushion and support your feet properly
  • Building up to the exercise intensity gradually
  • Warming up before any exercise and stretch after exercising
  • Putting an ice pack on your shin for up to 20 minutes every 2 to 3 hours
  • Switching to gentle exercise such as yoga or swimming whilst it is healing
  • Exercising on soft ground, if and when you are feeling better

 

How osteopathy can help with shin splints

Osteopathic treatment can help to reduce the tension deep in the muscle of the leg.

Osteopath Robin Kiashek, who has more than 25 years’ experience in the industry, said: “I take a holistic approach when it comes to assessing any problem my clients are suffering from. For shin splints, I would look to reduce the tension in the leg muscles and make sure there are no other underlying mechanical problems.

“You might be suffering from the pain in the shin, but other predisposing factors  – like your gait or posture – might be the root cause.  Only after a full biomechanical assessment can we come up with a treatment plan.  If left unchecked these pains might develop into something far more serious.”

Robin Kiashek has dealt with numerous running injuries – including shin splints. Get in touch if you would like to book a treatment or find out more.

 

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Low-Level Laser Therapy – the runners’ friend

Research published by Macmillan Cancer Support shows an estimated 7 million people across the country turned to running or jogging during the Covid-19 crisis to boost their mental health.

One in seven people in the UK (14%) said running had helped them deal with stress since the first lockdown in March.  And about a third said running helped them feel calmer and more positive.

All of which is great news.  But it’s important that these mental benefits don’t come at a physical cost. More research (!) show that, for every 1,000 hours of running, beginners get injured twice as often as experienced runners.

Among the most common problems to plague runners are Plantar Fasciitis – painful inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot and Achilles Tendonitis. This manifests as pain and tenderness in the heel and along the Achilles tendon.  Which is the thickest tendon in the human body.

Responding to running injury

On a practical level, there are a couple of simple self-help measures that you can try:

  • First and foremost, take an immediate break from training.
  • Apply ice regularly to the painful area for the first 48-72 hours to reduce swelling.
  • Take a good look at your training footwear. Running shoes will generally need replacing after you’ve run 300-500 miles.
  • Consider gentle, stretching exercises, such as the heel drop (devised by Swedish sports doctor Dr Hakan Alfredson).  Try three sets of 15 heel drops twice daily over three months.

Give low-level laser therapy a try

Over time, most such treatments will provide some relief.  But what if you had access to a quicker, more effective and long-lasting therapy? Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) could be the answer. It’s a pain-free, non-invasive treatment that involves placing a low-power light beam on the injured area. The light stimulates repair by cellular organelles (specialised structures within a cell that carry out a particular function) called Mitochondria, This reduces pain and promotes a speedier, safer recovery.

Treatment times are relatively short and many patients report encouraging results within two or three sessions.

LLLT is used widely by osteopaths in the United States.  It is gaining ground here in the UK, alongside general osteopathic techniques, as a successful treatment for sports injuries.  Also, Plantar Fasciitis, Achilles Tendonitis, back pain, various types of arthritis and other conditions including strains and sprains.

Osteopath Robin Kiashek said: “I’ve been using LLLT as part of my treatment plans for over 10 years.  It sits nicely alongside the other therapies and patients frequently report great improvements to their symptoms.”

There is some useful information on the website about LLLT, including a video explaining how it works.

So, if pain has stopped play when it comes to your exercise regime then why not contact Robin to see if LLLT could get you back up and…well, running?

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The difference between an Osteopath and Chiropractor

‘What is the difference between an Osteopath and a Chiropractor?’

A frequently asked question for many Osteopaths.

There are a handful of similarities between the two professions, but also differences in terms of their philosophy, patient assessment and the way they treat patients. And it’s useful to understand how each operates when you are considering treatment.

 The philosophy of Osteopaths

Osteopaths deal with the whole body.

They take on a more holistic approach, treating musculoskeletal disorders relating to muscles, ligaments, joints, nerves, cartilage, tendons and the general skeletal system.

They also identify underlying, causative factors.  So, Osteopathy can not only help to heal specific conditions but also work towards improving your overall health.

Osteopaths will consider where the root cause of your problem may be originating.  For example, a patient may be suffering with facial pain, but this could be stemming from a problem in their neck.  Which is, in turn, related to the function of the upper back, which is dependent to some extent on the biomechanics of their lower back. And their lower back is linked to the pelvic area – so they could be suffering with possible issues in their knees or feet.

Osteopath Robin Kiashek, who has more than 25 years’ experience said: “To help my patients understand the difference, I encourage them to think about house subsidence. London’s housing stock is built on clay, and during the hot summer months it is not uncommon to find the older properties developing cracks in the upper floors. One option is to fill in the cracks every year. But the problem is to do with ground movement below the house.

“Therefore, to solve the problem once and for all, Osteopaths generally address those underlying factors. In other words, they will, of course, fill in the cracks. But they will also address the movement below the house.”

The philosophy of Chiropractors

Chiropractors primarily focus on the spine.

Generally speaking, Chiropractors believe that spinal misalignment is the root cause of their patient’s back symptoms. The spinal cord is simply an extension of the brain, and according to chiropractic belief, slight misalignment of a vertebra will affect the spinal nerves coming off the spinal cord.

Chiropractors believe that manipulation of the displaced vertebra, will address the spinal nerve compression and hence associated muscle or organ involvement.

Assessment with Osteopaths

At the initial consultation, Osteopaths will take a case history of the patient’s problem. This is followed by a physical examination during which they will ask the patient to undergo various movements in a bid to reproduce their symptoms.

The Osteopath will use a combination of visual analysis and touch (or palpation) to understand the problem at hand. They may also use orthopaedic tests and occasionally refer for further x-ray or MRI investigation to help form a diagnosis.

Once a diagnosis has been reached, an Osteopath will give the patient a full explanation and a treatment plan. A treatment will be included in the initial Osteopathic consultation, assuming it is safe to do so.

The treatment plan will let the patient know what aggravating factors to avoid and will include lifestyle advice to help them do so.

Assessment with a Chiropractor

At a Chiropractor’s initial consultation, they will usually come to diagnosis from the use of x-rays, focussing largely on the spinal integrity. On the second visit, the patient will be informed of the Chiropractor’s diagnosis and on the third visit, treatment will commence.

Treatment: what to expect with an Osteopath

After the initial consultation, treatment will begin, and most Osteopaths will then see patient once a week for half an hour.

Treatments may include gentle soft tissue release through massage, joint mobilisation and gentle conservative spinal manipulation. In addition, Robin Kiashek may use a range of allied therapies including Western Medical Acupuncture and Low Level Laser Therapy.

Treatment: what to expect with a Chiropractor

Chiropractors are more well known for focusing on the spinal adjustments or clicking which may not be as gentle as Osteopathic treatment. The Chiropractor will focus primarily on the lower and upper back and neck.

Chiropractors tend to see their patients ‘little and often’. Treatments themselves normally last around 15 minutes. But they may see their patients two to three times a week.

A final word from Robin

Robin added: “In addition to the difference between Osteopathy and Chiropractic outlined above, it’s important to remember that each Osteopath and Chiropractor will practice in their own unique way.  They may have particular specialisms or areas of interest.  So, don’t’ be afraid to do your research – practitioners will be more than happy to answer your questions.”

If you are in pain or have any questions about how Osteopath, Robin Kiashek, could be of benefit,  then please get in touch. Osteopaths are deemed as essential workers. Therefore, they can continue to treat patients through lockdown and patients are permitted to seek medical help. Robin Kiashek is fully compliant with Government regulations re PPE.

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Relief from back pain – Dr Google isn’t the answer

What can I do to relieve my back pain?

Google searches around back pain, relief for back pain and back pain exercises skyrocketed in 2020. Which is concerning news for me as an Osteopath.

In some ways it’s not surprising. Back pain affects up to 80% of us at some point in our lives. It’s one of the most common reasons for workplace absence and the NHS spends more than £1 billion per year on back pain related costs. Plus, there’s the challenges of the past year – the long term impact of working from home in an imperfect set up, new, different or abandoned exercise routines and the undoubted increase in stress.

So I can understand why, in the absence of the usual access to NHS services, people are turning to other sources. But Google is not the answer.

The good news about back pain

Pain of any sort can be distressing and worrying. It can lead to feelings of stress which can manifest physically as tightened muscles and thus increased pain. And so the cycle builds. But (and this is the important bit!) back pain is rarely due to any serious disease and the long-term outlook is good.

Your spine is made of solid, bony blocks reinforced by strong ligaments and muscles. It is surprisingly difficult to damage. But if strained, the surrounding muscles and ligaments can cause discomfort and pain.

Why Osteopathy for back pain relief?

In the UK, Osteopaths must be registered with the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC) to practise. They are highly trained professionals skilled in diagnosing health issues.  This includes those that may require further investigation. Osteopathy is a safe and effective way to prevent, diagnose and treat a wide range of health problems.  Including back pain.

I qualified in Osteopathic Medicine 25 years ago.  I’ve since trained in various additional complementary disciplines to extend the options I can offer to my patients:

– Western Medical Acupuncture
– Low Level Laser Therapy (also known as Cold Laser Therapy)
– The Perrin Technique for ME/CFS
– Neuro Linguistic Programming & Coaching (NLP)

At your first appointment, I take a full medical and lifestyle history to get a proper understanding of the issue that has brought you to my clinic and of you as an individual. This combined with a physical examination enables me to devise a treatment plan specific to the problems you’re experiencing.

How can an Osteopath help with back pain?

At the Robin Kiashek Clinics, I aim to relieve pain and help strengthen the body, making it less susceptible to discomfort or injury. I also try to understand the lifestyle factors which may have contributed to the onset of pain. My range of gentle and effective treatments to relieve back pain includes manual Osteopathy, Western Acupuncture and Low-Level Laser Therapy.

Through these non-invasive methods and by working closely with your lifestyle, I can help minimise or even resolve symptoms and improve your overall health.

We’ve also recently added another string to our bow. With our Home Office Ergonomics service, we review your home working arrangements and make suggestions for improvement to help minimise the impact on your physical (and emotional) wellbeing.

Relief from back pain at  home – Tips for self-help

Last August I wrote about back pain and millennials – some top tips for prevention. These are useful guidelines for us all and you can read them here.

If you are in pain, please don’t suffer in silence. Early diagnosis and treatment can help with recovery and get you back to usual activities more quickly. Osteopaths are considered essential workers.  As such, I was vaccinated against Covid-19 in January. I also undertake weekly Rapid Flow Antigen Tests to ensure I’m Covid free. I can continue to treat patients in accordance with government guidelines through lockdown. So, please do get in touch.

 

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Osteopathy and the value of face-to-face contact

Osteopathy face-to-face

This year, the healthcare sector (along with many other industries) has been forced to embrace online technology in a bid to stop the spread of COVID.  GP surgeries and hospitals have conducted video diagnoses.  Some Osteopaths and physiotherapists have provided virtual exercise sessions. Telemedicine – caring for patients remotely without a physical therapist and patient present in the same room – is all around!

There are certainly some positives to telemedicine. It has enabled providers to see more patients in a shorter amount of time. It has also cut down on travel for patients and has been crucial in stopping the spread of COVID.

But as an Osteopath with more than 20 years’ experience, I have no doubt that Face-to-face appointments, a physical examination and hands-on treatment is preferable.  In many cases, I believe that arriving at an accurate diagnosis is compromised when the medical practitioner is unable to physically assess the patient.

Osteopathy and face-to-face contact

At an initial consultation I spend around 30 minutes taking a detailed patient history.  I note the patient’s lifestyle factors, both physically and emotionally.  Then I move on to a physical examination. This is very difficult, if not impossible, to achieve with Telemedicine

Just last month, the value of face-to- face and hands-on contact was reinforced.  Patient X visited me after two trips to a local hospital with lower back and abdominal pain. Both times she was sent home without being examined.  Painkillers were prescribed.

I conducted a physical examination and it was immediately clear that this pain was not going to be cured by painkillers.  I wrote a letter referring the patient to A&E. The diagnosis was eventually a stone in the urethra.

The power of touch

Another reason why physical examination is key is because palpation  and touch can help with recovery.

This can be seen in the recent case of Patient Y – who fell and fractured her arm in two places earlier this year.

Bone fractures heal of course. But it’s the soft tissue aspect of the injury that can take longer to repair. However, palpation, moving, stretching and massaging the soft tissue, combined with remedial exercises can help with the recovery and range of movement.

In fact, Patient Y came to see me because she was struggling to complete the home physio exercises prescribed virtually by the hospital.  She was also experiencing some discomfort.

The next day she emailed me: “Following my appointment with you I had a virtual physio session as a follow up to my hospital treatment. The physio asked me to move my arm to check the range of movement,  She was astonished to see that I could raise my arm to its full height.

“She said she was extremely surprised to see such a recovery in the movement after only eight weeks.  I explained that following my treatment with my osteopath, Robin Kiashek, my range of movement had significantly improved and that I had certainly not been able to raise my arm to its full height before I visited you.  Thank you, as always, from one very satisfied patient!”

How we are keeping you safe

My osteopathic clinics are able to remain open despite the tiered approach England finds itself in. This includes Tier 3.  So, we can continue to provide hands-on treatment and psychical examinations in a safe environment.

Both clinics are operating under a strict COVID-10 health and safety policy. This includes:

  • Use of face masks, disposable apron and gloves during consultations which are changed between patients.
  • Internal cleaning of clinic
  • Full sanitisation and disinfection fogging throughout the week
  • Social distancing
  • Regular deep cleans of touch points like buttons, light switches and door handles

If you’re struggling with an issue and perhaps not able to get a face-to-face appointment then please do get in touch.  I’d be delighted to see if I can help to relieve your symptoms.

 

 

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