Osteopathic Manual Therapy (OMT) is a hands-on, principles-based approach that looks at how your body's structures and systems work together. At Luminate Co, Katie Ryan uses precise manual techniques to reduce strain, restore mobility, and support your body's natural ability to self-heal and self-regulate.
What is Osteopathy (Osteopathic Manual Therapy)?
Osteopathy is a gentle, hands-on therapy that considers the body as an integrated whole. Practitioners assess how bones, muscles, fascia and joints relate to circulation, lymph and the nervous system — then use precise techniques to reduce strain and improve motion.
Gentle, Hands-On Assessment
Precise techniques to support your body's natural healing
Conditions We Treat with Osteopathic Manual Therapy
Osteopathic Manual Therapy supports relief and healing for a wide range of conditions
Musculoskeletal
- Back and neck pain
- Joint pain and stiffness
- Muscle tension and spasms
- Sports injuries
- Postural problems
- Arthritis
- TMJ dysfunction
Neurological
- Headaches and migraines
- Sciatica
- Nerve compression
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
Digestive
- IBS symptoms
- Bloating and discomfort
- Acid reflux
- Constipation
Pregnancy & Postpartum
- Pregnancy-related pain
- Postpartum recovery
- Pelvic alignment
- Baby feeding positions
Other Conditions
- Sleep difficulties
- Stress-related symptoms
- Sinus issues
- Breathing difficulties
- Chronic fatigue
- Fibromyalgia
Osteopathic Manual Therapy does not diagnose medical conditions or perform internal procedures. It is an external, drug-free, hands-on modality that may complement your existing healthcare.
Our Approach: Assess • Release • Rebalance
A systematic, gentle approach to restore ease and mobility
Assess
History and movement exam; palpation to identify areas of strain, asymmetry and restricted motion.
Release
Gentle techniques such as myofascial release, cranial and visceral approaches, and joint articulation to ease restrictions.
Rebalance
Re-coordinate motion and circulation; simple home strategies to support ease and resilience.
Techniques Used in Osteopathic Manual Therapy
Gentle, precise manual methods to ease restrictions and support healing
Myofascial and soft-tissue release
Articulation and gentle joint techniques
Cranial osteopathy-informed techniques
Visceral mobility techniques
Balanced ligamentous/membranous tension
Lymphatic and circulatory support
Meet Katie Ryan, Osteopathic Manual Therapist
Katie graduated from the Canadian Academy of Osteopathy (CAO), completing a comprehensive 4,200-hour program with over 1,500 hours of supervised, hands-on clinical training. Her care is grounded in classical, principles-based osteopathy and a deep respect for the body's ability to adapt and heal.
She works collaboratively to understand your goals, then designs calm, precise sessions to help reduce strain, improve motion, and restore ease in everyday life.
What to Expect at Your Visit
Complete a brief intake before your first appointment so Katie understands your history, goals and areas of concern.
Your visit includes discussion, movement observation and gentle palpation-based assessment.
Treatment uses external, hands-on techniques only — no forceful manipulation or internal procedures.
Expect a calm, comfortable experience. You can provide feedback at any time about pressure and comfort.
You'll leave with simple at-home strategies to help you maintain ease between sessions.
Coverage varies by insurer. We provide detailed receipts for reimbursement; please check your benefits for Manual Osteopathic Therapy.
Supportive Pregnancy Care
Safe, gentle techniques for all stages of pregnancy and postpartum
What Our Patients Say
Katie's sessions are so precise and calming — my neck and jaw finally feel free.
— A. R.
The gentle approach surprised me — huge change in my mobility after a few visits.
— D. S.
I appreciate how thoroughly she explains what she's feeling and why it matters.
— K. M.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is osteopathy the same as chiropractic or physiotherapy?
They are distinct professions. Osteopathic Manual Therapy focuses on gentle, whole-body assessment and soft-tissue, fascial and joint techniques to ease strain and improve motion. Many people use Osteopathic Manual Therapy alongside chiropractic, physiotherapy and massage.
What conditions can Osteopathic Manual Therapy help with?
People commonly seek Osteopathic Manual Therapy for general aches, postural strain, headaches/TMJ tension, pregnancy-related discomforts and mobility issues. Your therapist will focus on easing restrictions and supporting overall function.
Is osteopathy safe?
When provided by a trained Osteopathic Manual Therapist, Osteopathic Manual Therapy is gentle and non-invasive. Your comfort and consent guide each session.
Do you offer direct billing?
Coverage for Manual Osteopathic Therapy varies. We provide receipts for reimbursement; please check your plan for details.
How many sessions will I need?
This varies by person and goal. Many people feel changes within 1-3 visits; longer-standing patterns may benefit from a short series with spaced maintenance.
Ready to Feel Lighter and Move with Ease?
Experience gentle, principle-based osteopathic care with Katie Ryan at Luminate Co Wellness Centre.