How Osteopathy helped me overcome severe arm pain
Today we're sharing Susan's personal experience with osteopathy at Yew Tree Clinic. Individual stories like Susan's offer valuable perspectives on health journeys. What follows is Susan's account in her own words.
The pain that took over my life
It all started with severe pain in my arm. The discomfort was relentless, and it even kept me up at night. Lobke, my osteopath, thought it might be tendonitis caused by overuse — likely from my love of knitting and embroidery. It was a repetitive strain injury that had taken over my life.
I’d had osteopathy before in my 40s for back and knee injuries, so I knew it could help. A friend had recommended it, and after doing some research, I decided to give it a try. I’ve always preferred natural treatments, and osteopathy felt like the right choice.
Why I chose osteopathy over traditional medicine
I’ve never been a fan of quick fixes. When I had a frozen shoulder years ago, the only option my doctor offered was steroid injections. I didn’t want that. It felt like a temporary solution. I also avoid painkillers whenever I can. They’re like sticking plasters; they don’t treat the root cause.
Osteopathy appealed to me because it’s natural and holistic. It actually addresses the underlying issues; and that’s exactly what I needed.
The first treatment
After my first session with Lobke, I felt hopeful. She was incredibly thorough and took the time to understand my pain. My arm was sore afterward, but the improvement came quickly. The severe pain that had been keeping me up at night eased significantly, and I was thrilled.
Lobke didn’t just treat the pain; she also gave me practical advice. She suggested I limit the time I spent knitting and gave me exercises to strengthen and support my arm. I stopped knitting for about four weeks, but when I started again, I took it gently. Her guidance made all the difference.
Understanding my body
Lobke always takes the time to explain things clearly. She also didn’t just treat my arm; she also addressed related issues with my neck and posture. She explained how the body functions, what she was doing, and why it would help.
She emphasised the importance of posture, which has helped me become more aware of how I sit when I knit. It’s so easy to sit for hours at night, but now I make sure to get up and do my exercises. This holistic approach has made a huge difference in my comfort and overall well-being.
A serene space
Lobke has such a calming presence. She’s reassuring, pleasant, and genuinely cares about her clients. The atmosphere at the clinic is serene. It’s a place where you can truly relax and focus on yourself.
I’ve had osteopathy before, but this experience has been different. Lobke takes her time and doesn’t rush. She’s thorough, and I always leave feeling empowered. I actually look forward to my sessions because I know I’m in good hands.
Feeling Empowered, Not Just Treated
One of the things I love most about osteopathy is that it’s empowering because Lobke gives me the tools to help myself. The exercises she recommended are now part of my daily routine, and they’ve made a significant difference.
While I initially went to Yew Tree Clinic for my arm, the treatment has also helped me understand how other parts of my body are connected.
What I appreciate most is the time and attention I receive. At the doctor’s office, it often feels like you’re on a conveyor belt, in and out in minutes. But with osteopathy, I feel listened to. Lobke takes the time to understand my concerns and tailor the treatment to my needs.
Give osteopathy a try
If you’re struggling with pain, I’d highly recommend osteopathy. It’s a holistic approach that treats the whole person, not just the symptoms. For me, it has helped me manage my symptoms naturally and allowed me to get back to what I love in no time!
Thank you, Susan, for sharing your story with our community.
If you're interested in finding out more about osteopathy or would like to book an appointment at Yew Tree Clinic, please contact us on 0117 946 6882.