How osteopathy can help your sinuses

Over the last few months, I have been seeing a large number of patients who are having sinus issues, either as an acute illness, or failure to fully resolve after an infection. And we have only just entered spring and hay fever season! 

Osteopathic treatment is excellent for helping to clear the sinuses . In fact, just this morning, I got a message from one my patients (who hasn’t been able to breathe properly for months) after her treatment the day before treatment, saying, “ Omg I can breathe. I really can’t believe it. You are magic ” 

So what are the sinuses ?

The sinuses are 4 paired empty spaces in the bones our skull. It is believed they exist to improve nasal function, to act as an aide in the production of nitric oxide, humidify the air and help the immune defences of the nasal cavity. They also act in protecting the skull from damage during trauma to the face.

There are four sinuses , the largest ones being the Maxillary in your cheekbones (on either side of your nose) and the Frontal (just above your eyebrows). Smaller ones are located between the eyes and behind the nose (Ethmoid and Sphenoid). 

The sinuses are lined by mucosal tissue and a thin layer of mucus that normally drains secretions into the nose. Conditions that create obstruction to normal air and mucous flow can predispose the sinuses to inflammation. This can be due to infections, allergies and/or irritants.

Many symptoms can be caused by sinus troubles including:

• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Itchy eyes and nose 
• Stuffy nose 
• Post nasal drip 
• Cough
• Sinus infection which is extremely unpleasant 
• Headaches 
• Facial pressure 
• Bad breath 
• Tiredness
• Fever 

Osteopathic treatment can help to manage the acute phase, as well as, chronic or recurrent issues. The use of gentle osteopathic skills, such as, soft tissue massage, myofascial release, lymphatic drainage and cranial techniques to the head, face and neck can help decrease congestion, thereby promoting normal venous and lymphatic circulation and reducing oedema and inflammation.

Obviously, the cause of infections or allergens will need to be addressed. Seeing your medical practitioner may be appropriate. The Elemental Health naturopaths can also assist with support for this aspect of the problem. Get in touch with us for more information.

And finally for ongoing self-management you can be taught some techniques to help the sinuses drain and reduce congestion.

If you are suffering from sinus pain, recurring sinus infections or any of the above symptoms make an appointment with Vanessa Malone for an osteopathy consultation by calling our reception on (02) 8084 0081 or you can book online.