What is osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a manual therapy based on one principle: a body that can move freely recovers better. Where movement is lost, in a joint, a muscle, connective tissue or around an organ, the body compensates. That compensation often causes pain elsewhere. An osteopath therefore looks for both the complaint and its cause, and treats with the hands.
In Belgium, osteopathy is a separate discipline. Simon Standaert combines training as an osteopath D.O. with an MSc Osteopathy and a master's in physiotherapy specialising in sport (RIZIV 0-5-52595-14-527). That dual background lets him place a problem in its clinical context and treat it manually at the same time.
What happens during a consultation?
A consultation takes 35 minutes and costs €70. A first treatment always follows the same four steps.
Stap 1
Conversation
Simon asks how your problem started and developed, about previous treatments, imaging, medication, work, sport and sleep. That context determines where he looks.
Stap 2
Examination
Active and passive movement tests, palpation of joints, muscles and connective tissue and, where needed, neurological or orthopaedic tests. This shows which structures cause or maintain the problem.
Stap 3
Treatment
Tailored manual techniques: mobilisations, manipulations, muscle and fascia work, visceral or cranial techniques. Possibly combined with Winback (tecar therapy) or Dynamic Tape.
Stap 4
Advice and follow-up
You receive concrete exercises, advice on posture or load and a realistic expectation of the number of sessions. If in doubt or with warning signs, you are referred to your GP or specialist.
Osteopathy, physiotherapy or manual therapy?
The three disciplines overlap, but the approach differs. In short:
- Osteopathy
- A manual approach that looks at the body as a whole. The osteopath looks for lost movement in joints, muscles, connective tissue and organs, also away from the painful spot. Usually a few sessions, no referral needed.
- Physiotherapy
- Often longer series of sessions focused on exercise therapy, strength, rehabilitation and repeated training, usually on a doctor's referral and reimbursed through RIZIV.
- Manual therapy
- A specialisation within physiotherapy focused on joints and the spine. Technically it overlaps with osteopathy, but with a narrower focus.
What problems does an osteopath treat?
- Lower back pain, neck pain and radiating pain
- Tension headaches, migraine and jaw problems
- Tinnitus and dizziness with a musculoskeletal component
- Shoulder, hip and knee problems
- Sports injuries, overuse and recovery after exercise
- Pelvic pain and male pelvic floor problems
- Problems during and after pregnancy
- Tension-related digestive and breathing problems
A full overview of symptoms is on the Symptoms page, and the techniques under Treatments.
Practical questions
Do I need a referral?
No. You can book an appointment directly. A report to your GP or specialist is always possible on request.
How many sessions are needed?
That depends on the problem and how long you have had it. For an acute problem two to three sessions are often enough; chronic or recurring problems sometimes need follow-up over time. After the first examination you will hear what is realistic.
Is osteopathy reimbursed?
Most health insurance funds reimburse part of the consultations. Conditions and amounts are listed under Practical info.
Is treatment painful?
Techniques are adapted to your problem and your comfort. Soreness or tiredness for one to two days is normal and passes on its own.
Osteopathy does not replace medical care. If you have warning signs or persistent symptoms, you will be referred to your GP or specialist. In a medical emergency, call 112.
Have your problem examined
Not sure whether osteopathy can help with your problem? Book a first treatment in Sint-Katelijne-Waver; after the examination you will know where you stand.
Book an appointment