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Osteopathy “effective in the management of musculoskeletal disorders”, researchers conclude.

Osteopathy has long been used to treat back pain. But for years, evidence of its effectiveness has been limited – until now that is.

According to the British Medical Journal (BMJ), there is now “promising evidence” that osteopathy may relieve musculoskeletal pain.  The review, published in the BMJ, saw researchers asses the safety and effectiveness of osteopathy for backpain.  To do so, they trawled through nine systematic reviews and meta analyses conducted between 2013 and 2020.  These involved 55 primary trials and 3740 participants.

The result?

Researchers concluded: “This overview suggests that [osteopathy] could be effective in the management of musculoskeletal disorders, specifically with regard to [chronic non-specific low back pain] and [low back pain] in pregnant women or [those who have just had a baby].”

Over the past 25 years, Osteopath Robin Kiashek, has treated hundreds of clients for backpain.

He said: “I’ve been working in this field for a long time.  I’ve seen first-hand the many benefits osteopathy can bring for those suffering with this often debilitating musculoskeletal problem.

“It’s promising to see researchers back up what many Osteopaths already knew – and further confirm that Osteopathy can help aid back pain.”

How can Osteopathy help back pain?

Unfortunately, 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.

But here’s the good news. At the Robin Kiashek Clinics, we aim to relieve pain and help strengthen the body, making it less susceptible to discomfort or injury.  Robin also tries 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,” Robin says. “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.”

And there’s back pain testimonials to prove this

 

Dr Nick Losseff, Consultant Neurologist, said: “As a medic I am luckily privy to insider knowledge on who the very best osteopaths are, which is how I got to see Robin. He resurrected my back after three months of agony and being unable to even sit down. His approach is totally holistic and perhaps most importantly he has taught me how to avoid future problems successfully. I recommend all my back pain patients to Robin.  He is a really great guy!”.

In fact that Dr Losseff also recently brought Robin onboard as part of a team assessing a complex, high profile case.

Another Consultant Neurologist, Dr Paul Jarman, said: “Robin Kiashek is my ‘go-to’ osteopath for my complex patients with neck and back problems. He combines excellent clinical care, effective treatment and a friendly approachable manner. He always communicates well with patients and the referring specialist. I would strongly recommend him to anyone in search of a first-class osteopath.”

While a third patient said: “I went to see Robin in his East Finchley “The Twyford Practice” with a bad lower back pain that left me unable even to walk properly. Robin was extremely professional and highly knowledgeable, with a friendly conversational manner that helped to put myself at ease at a time when I was suffering from quite a lot of pain.  He an excellent osteopath and a very nice person. Robin also treated me with an acupuncture and low level laser therapy, which helped a lot for my recovery. I would highly recommend Robin without hesitation.”

If you’re living with back pain, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

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Tennis Elbow: How Osteopathy can help hit back at the condition

With the two-week Wimbledon tennis championships set to return from 28th June, we thought now would be the perfect time serve up some awareness about the painful condition, Tennis Elbow.

Despite what the name suggests, the condition doesn’t only affect those who wield a tennis racket.  However, it’s believed to affect 10 to 50% of tennis players during their career and up to just under two million people in the UK.

 

What is Tennis Elbow?

Formally known as lateral epicondylitis – Tennis Elbow causes pain and tenderness on the outside of your elbow. According to the NHS, it can last anywhere between six months and two years. If you are suffering from this condition, you might also have problems:

  • Lifting or bending your arm
  • A burning pain in your elbow
  • When using or holding small objects such as a pen, pencil or your phone
  • When twisting your forearm such as turning a door handle or opening a jar
  • Fully extending your arm
  • Pins & needles or numbness in the forearm

What causes Tennis Elbow?

Tennis Elbow can be caused by overusing the muscles attached to your elbow and used to straighten your wrist.

Any activity that puts repeated stress on the elbow joint cause this painful condition.

So, although this includes tennis players, it can also affect those who play squash, golf, fencing or badminton. Along with professionals such as painters, carpenters, musicians and those who work on an assembly line or on a computer.

How to treat Tennis Elbow?

Robin Kiashek has been a practicing Osteopath for more than 25 years and has treated many people for tennis elbow.

He said: “If you do feel a pain in your elbow, you should stop the activity that is causing the pain until your symptoms improve.

“To ease the pain, sometimes people hold a cold compress on their elbow or a bag of frozen peas wrapped around a tea towel. While others use an elbow strap to project the injured tendon from further strain.

“However, I would suggest coming to see an osteopath initially to obtain an accurate diagnosis and possible causative factors, such as issues with the shoulder and/or hand.  Osteopathic techniques combined with Low Level Laser therapy and/or Acupuncture to the elbow can help in reducing the symptoms, whilst addressing the underlying causative factors.”

How does Osteopathy help with Tennis Elbow?

Osteopaths can treat tennis elbow in using Manual Osteopathic techniques to both the elbow and if necessary, adjacent areas (shoulder, hand).

As confirmed by one study which looked at the power of deep friction massages versus steroid injections in the treatment of tennis elbow: “Deep friction massage is an effective treatment for lateral epicondylitis.”

Robin can also use a combination of Western Acupuncture to relieve the pain and Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) to help speed up your body’s natural healing process safety and effectively.

If you are struggling with tennis elbow, get in touch with Robin today to book in for a consultation or treatment. If you are suffering from other ailments, whether it’s neck pain, joint pain or headaches, these are all areas that Osteopathy can help improve.

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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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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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Are health and fitness apps making us ‘appy’ or stressing us out?

Optimal Health & Wellbeing

Maintaining optimal health & wellbeing has always important. But never before has there been such a focus on its significance.

“The ongoing coronavirus pandemic has changed all aspects of life – health & wellbeing included,” Osteopath Robin Kiashek said. “The closure of gyms and restrictions on non-essential travel has forced us all to find new health habits.

“At the start of the UK’s first lockdown, we saw a rise in the number of people going for daily walks, the lucky few converted their garages and spare bedrooms into make-shift gyms and there was a boom in virtual workouts in front of our laptops. And to help keep us in check, many people turned to smart tech and fitness apps which can monitor every aspect.”

There’s an App for that

According to the latest stats*, health and fitness apps have seen a ‘steep rise’ in users during the pandemic. Trackable fitness service, Strava now has 73 million users world-wide. Whilst, fitness app Freeletics – which has more than 2 million UK users – saw a 50% increase in its use during the first 2020 lockdown between March and June.

Nowadays there’s an app for everything. You can monitor your sleep with Sleep Cycle, chart your mindfulness with mediation app Headspace and even check your blood oxygen levels with Pulse Oximeter.

But is all this tracking causing more harm than good?

 

Staying active is always good

It’s a well-known fact that regular exercise brings with it huge benefits. In today’s society where sitting in front of the TV, or working at home from a desk all day has become the norm, being active helps to build and maintain strong muscles.

It can also boost energy levels, increase productivity and promote healthy sleep. Staying active also helps to reduce the risk of injury and diseases such as osteoporosis, diabetes and heart disease.

 

Positives of health and fitness apps and smart tech

And these health apps and tracking tools can help keep us on the move and off our sofas. That’s because they have the ability to:

  • Help you set achievable goals
  • Track activity levels – like counting your steps
  • Give you a nudge when it’s time to ‘get active’
  • Give you incentives to work harder or push yourself
  • Keep you motivated – some even show you what your other fitness friends have achieved
  • Show you progress over time and give you the stats to back it up
  • Track your heart rate

Robin says: “The ability to track your heartbeat is of course an important measure in health of fitness. Especially with the spotlight that coronavirus ** has placed on achieving better cardio health. However, as with anything, balance is required.”

 

Health and Fitness – All things in moderation

Recent stats*** revealed by the Office for National Statistics showed how stress and anxiety levels have soared because of the pandemic.

The stats from 2020 showed that 19 million adults in Great Britain reported high levels of anxiety. This was said to be a result of the challenges of home-schooling, work worries and health – in addition to all of life’s other stressors.

 

The key message to keep in mind

Robin added: “So, instead of focusing on the stats and adding another stressor to your plate, try to focus on the here and now.

“How are you feeling? How does your body feel? Do you feel tired? The key message to keep in mind is that these stats are a far more beneficial tool if you use them alongside your natural intuition. Rather than heading outside because your smart watch says you should, do it because you want to. You are still moving – whether that’s to walk around the block and back or going for a 20-minute run.

“We are all learning to live during this very strange time, so don’t let your apps rule you. Make 2021 the year you take back charge of your health and fitness.”

Osteopath Robin Kiashek has more than 25 years’ experience in the health and wellbeing industry. As a leading osteopath, Robin believes in getting to the root of your problems and restoring, healing and developing the body and mind. Get in touch today to discover how Robin can help.

 

* https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-55318822

** https://www.hriuk.org/health/your-health/lifestyle/covid-19-and-heart-health

***https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/wellbeing/articles/coronavirusandanxietygreatbritain/3april2020to10may2020***https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/wellbeing/articles/coronavirusandanxietygreatbritain/3april2020to10may2020

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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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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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TMJ disorders – Osteopathy can help: here’s how

TMJ disorders

According to a survey 68% of us confirmed that our stress levels have continued to increase over the course of 2020.

And it’s no wonder. This year has tested us all.

As a trained Osteopath with more than 20 years experience in the field, I know that stress can manifest itself in the body in many different ways. More recently, I’ve seen a number of clients suffering from a (TMJD).

What is the main cause of TMJ?

TMJD or TMD is not necessarily a well-known term, but it affects around one in 10 people in the UK.

TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint. This joint connects the lower jaw to the skull (or upper jaw) in front of the ear. A TMJ disorder is a condition affecting that joint and the muscles involved in chewing. It can also importantly affect the Trigeminal nerve, which is situated next the TMJ, giving rise to facial symptoms:

It has no definitive cause but can be brought on by over-clenching of the jaw and teeth, wear and tear of the inside jaw, injury or surgery, and stress, all of which has a physiological relationship to the neck and upper back.

According to Bupa, women tend to develop jaw conditions more often than men. It can occur at any age, but most people have them when they’re between 20 and 40.

TMJD symptoms

Symptoms include:

  • Jaw pain
  • Headaches
  • Clicking, popping and grating noises when chewing or opening the mouth
  • Earache
  • Neck/shoulder pain
  • Difficulty chewing
  • Locking of the joint
  • Facial and eye symptoms (see illustration of Trigeminal nerve distribution above)

It goes without saying that these symptoms can have a significant impact on a person’s lifestyle if left untreated. So, it’s worth seeking medical advice if symptoms are severe or long lasting.

It may be possible to alleviate the symptoms of a TMJD by eating soft foods, avoiding chewing gum and nail biting. The same could be said by completing daily Rocabado exercises, taught by Robin Kiashek, which helps to alleviate TMJ stress.

But Osteopathy can also be effective in easing the pain of TMJD by understanding the factors which may be causing the TMJD. Whether they are physical factors in the patient’s upper back, neck and/or emotional factors. Dental factors should be taken into consideration.

TMJ disorder treatment testimonials

But don’t just take my word for it. I have worked with dentist David Cook, BChD, at the London Holistic Dental Centre for more than a decade. David has referred his clients suffering from TMJ to me to help alleviate the pain.

David says: “I have worked with Robin for over 15 years and his skill and dedication have been demonstrated countless times. I treat a lot of facial pain and TMD and I have found his holistic approach is of enormous benefit to my patients, those that see him can expect a smoother, faster recovery and better long-term stability.

“He is an excellent diagnostician and his knowledge and approachability make him a valued member of my clinical team. As a dentist, I am subject to major spinal strain and can also vouch for Robin’s superb support in keeping my body straight, mobile and pain-free.”

If you’re a sufferer of TMJ, or have been suffering from the symptoms associated with this disorder, please don’t hesitate to get in touch or book an appointment.

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Bigger, brighter and better: the new Robin Kiashek Osteopathic Clinic in Linen Hall

Osteopathic Clinic London

My Central London Osteopath clinic has been based in Linen Hall on Regent’s Street for 14 years.  So, I’m pleased to announce that I’ve recently moved into a much bigger, brighter and roomier clinic in the building.

Osteopath Treatments in Linen Hall

The fabulous new-look clinic provides me with additional space (particularly relevant in the current circumstances) to deliver my full range of Osteopathic treatments and allied therapies.  These include Low Level Laser Therapy and Western Acupuncture.  Also my new Bespoke Ergonomics service.  This is where I review clients’ home working set up via Zoom and provide recommendations for improvements.

COVID-19 health and safety policy

Linen Hall Osteopathic Clinic London is equidistant between Oxford and Piccadilly Circus.  The Crown Estate manages the building as part of a large UK real estate portfolio.  All profits are returned to the Treasury for the benefit of the nation. Linen Hall has a strict COVID-19 health and safety policy in place to ensure the wellbeing of its users.  This includes:

  • Signage reminding people to abide by the social distancing rules
  • Use of face masks inside lifts
  • A sign in and out system
  • Hand sanitiser stations dotted around the building
  • Extra cleaning of all common areas
  • Internal cleaning of the clinic
  • Full sanitisation and disinfection fogging throughout the week
  • Regular deep clean of touch points like buttons, light switches and door handles
  • Patients are no longer required to obtain passes at Reception upon entry but are given a paper visitor’s sticker (to attach to their lapel)

I also continue to follow enhanced health and safety protocols in the clinic to prevent the spread of coronavirus by adhering to government PPE and General Osteopathic Council guidelines.

Life in central London

If you’ve not yet ventured back into town, it’s still very quiet in Central London.  And many shops are still operating reduced opening hours.  But Regent Street pavements have been widened and there are numerous hand sanitiser stations on the street itself.

Get in touch

Robin Kiashek is a London Osteopath and Naturopath with clinics in Central London, Soho and North London.

He is registered with The General Osteopathic Council.  Also The British Naturopathic Association.

If you are suffering with any aches or pains then don’t hesitate to get in touch on 0208 815 0979.  Or you can request an appointment online.

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