How an osteopath uses emu oil
Emu oil is increasingly being used in professional practice. We spoke with Sarah Smith, director and osteopath at Beyond in Melbourne, about how she integrated Talyala Emu Oil Capsules into a recent patient’s wellness plan.
Tell us about your patient
Mary, a 65-year-old retired bookkeeper, presented to me with bilateral knee pain. Mary is an avid walker, often travelling overseas and interstate to do bush walks and pilgrimages. Over the years I have treated Mary for ongoing knee pain, which on X-ray findings has shown bilateral osteoarthritis (or degenerative arthritis) in her knees, as well as psoriatic arthritis.
Mary has used a combination of western drugs (NSAIDs and immunosuppressive drugs for pain and inflammation). Although these work, they aren’t a great long-term solution as they take a toll on gut health, and are better used for acute exacerbations of inflammation. For the osteoarthritis in her knees, Mary has tried manual therapy, massage, swimming and strength training. She finds the results are short-lived, apart from swimming, which she enjoys and keeps her mobile.
What was your approach?
I offered Mary osteopathic treatment, aiming to keep her joints mobile, muscles lengthened and relaxed, and to balance her musculoskeletal system, which can enhance her immune system and prevent flare-ups.
Mary joined our small group Pilates sessions, and this as well as gentle strengthening and mobility work, has improved her joint range of motion and pain levels significantly. Along with this I informed Mary about the inflammatory effect of different foods, as well as any supplements that could help her condition.
This is where my recommendation of emu oil capsules came in, after she had spoken with her GP and pharmacist to check for any medication interactions. I advised taking emu oil capsules, as a previous patient had found them great for his osteoarthritis.
What were Mary’s results?
Mary reported less joint pain when walking and on waking in the morning. I would definitely continue recommending emu oil for similar issues, as I’ve seen the benefits in both my patients and my family.