Menstrual pain? Osteopathy can help you. Interview with Dr. Lupi

We asked Dr. Lupi to explain how osteopathy can help combat intense and difficult period pain.

Menstrual pains have always affected fertile women of all ages, to a greater or lesser degree. When they are excessive and debilitating, we speak of dysmenorrhea, which affects 50% of women and interfere with normal daily activities, negatively affecting the woman's well-being.

Osteopathy can offer a natural and beneficial approach for women suffering from these pains. We discuss this with Dr. Valentina Lupi, an experienced osteopath.

Dr. Lupi, it is believed that the main cause of menstrual pain is pelvic congestion due to constriction of blood flow to the endometrium. How can osteopathy intervene in this situation?

Osteopathy can play an important role in improving blood flow to the uterus and ensuring proper functioning of the muscles involved. The diaphragm, for example, plays a key role in regulating arterial and venous blood flow in the body and influences the mobility of the pelvic organs. Through manual techniques, osteopaths work to improve lymphatic and venous drainage away from the pelvis, thus relieving pelvic congestion. This is achieved through maintaining good mechanics of the sacro-iliac joints, hips, sacrum, lumbar spine, thoracic spine, ribs and pelvic floor.

In addition to improving blood flow, how can osteopathy affect the nervous system and control of uterine muscles?

Osteopathy can also help restore the balance of the nervous system that provides innervation to the uterus. These nerves are derived from the lower thorax region, the upper lumbar region (T12 + L2) and the sacral region (S2-4), and regulate the contraction and dilation of the uterine muscles and blood vessels. Osteopaths work on these areas to ensure their optimal functioning.

Can an osteopath also provide advice on exercise, stretching, and posture related to dysmenorrhea?

Osteopaths work with patients to develop targeted exercise and stretching programs that can help prevent and address the cause of menstrual pain. Muscle tension and lack of joint mobility during the menstrual period can worsen discomfort. Therefore, the osteopath can recommend specific exercises and postural corrections to address these issues.

Finally, how can osteopathic manipulative techniques help reduce menstrual pain?

Osteopathic manipulative techniques are critical in reducing muscle tension, improving mobility of the involved joints, and promoting increased drainage of blood and lymphatic fluids. This helps reduce inflammation and nerve irritation, which contribute to the painful symptoms associated with dysmenorrhea.