FAQ(updated)
Do the treatments hurt?
In general, the treatments are designed to restore and encourage into motion the various fulcrums (physiology-biomechanical axes/ pumping mechanisms, et al.) of the body through manual techniques. In cases where there is a significant fixity (i.e. scarring, adhesion), I may dig into the area, but most of the time the treatments are so subtle that most patients report feeling that not much was done. Next-day soreness may occur as a result of the work, but dissipates within a day or two. People may fall asleep during the treatment, but I encourage them to stay awake and be aware of their body.
Does insurance cover the cost of the treatments?
Today, most medical insurers have decided to dictate what medical treatments to cover, as well as to the duration of such treatments. The same goes for non-medical conditions, which I address. I do not participate in any insurance plans as a preferred provider, nor do I submit reimbursement forms for people; however, you may submit your bill for reimbursement as outside-of-network care.
How long might it take to feel change?
The answer can be difficult to gauge, and is based upon the age of the patient, the duration of the current symptoms, and history of traumas. But approximately for younger patients this is 1-2 sessions; for older patients or for severe traumas the sessions needed to feel change is 3-4. This is why the nature of trauma is so intriguing: as the body lives and sustains and restores itself back to the best state of normalcy possible after trauma (emotional & physical), each injury robs a bit of the body's ability to regenerate, and the injuries accumulate in the body.
How long does it take for treatment to be completed (full results)?
For postural work and structural integration a good rule of thumb is 10 treatments. Patients with a history of abdominal surgeries (not a scratch-type) probably can use monthly treatments for a sustained period . Care of severe birth deformities of the plagiocephalic-type or traumatic births (foreceps, vacuum extraction), usually require care of a year, done rigorously; but this varies by the situation, age of patient, etc.
How are your fees determined?
My fees are based on the osteopathic education received and my experience. My session fees are adjusted at least annually, and are on a cash/ check basis. Current prices for osteopathic manual therapy done by a DO-MP (Canada) in Duluth, MN are set at $194 per hour; in the Twin Cities, MN $352 per hour (DO manual practice physician).
Why does it take so long to get to my main complaint!?
The best answer to this comes from Ed Stiles, DO: due to the model of tensegrity (google it) the body's response to injury is for system-wide adaptation. Typically the painful area is the place that has needed to make the most adaptation, and this is often far from the site of the original injury. It is the site of the "greatest area of restriction-hindrance" (Stiles) that MUST be addressed first. This is in the patient's best interest, and likely prevents extended treatment plans.