Sinusitis and osteopathy

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses, the cavities around the nasal cavities. It can be acute or chronic, and often manifests itself as headaches, nasal congestion, facial pain and a feeling of pressure. When conventional treatments aren't enough, or when a complementary approach is sought, osteopathy can offer significant relief. In this article, we'll explore how osteopathy can help treat sinusitis.

Acute sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses that usually lasts less than four weeks. It is often caused by a viral, bacterial or fungal infection. Symptoms include:

• Nasal congestion
• Facial pain
• Purulent nasal discharge
• Reduction or loss of sense of smell
• Headaches
• Fatigue

Subacute sinusitis lasts between four and twelve weeks. Symptoms are similar to those of acute sinusitis, but persist longer. This form of sinusitis may result from unresolved infection or prolonged inflammation.

Chronic sinusitis is characterized by sinus inflammation lasting more than twelve weeks, despite treatment. Symptoms may be less severe than those of acute sinusitis, but they are persistent. This condition can be caused by repeated infections, allergies, nasal polyps or structural problems in the sinuses.

Recurrent sinusitis is defined as several episodes of acute sinusitis occurring several times a year. Each episode lasts less than four weeks, but recurrences are frequent.

Maxillary sinusitis affects the maxillary sinuses located in the cheeks. Symptoms include pain in the cheeks, upper teeth and sometimes increased sensitivity in these areas.

Frontal sinusitis affects the frontal sinuses above the eyes, in the forehead. Symptoms include pain and pressure in the forehead, often aggravated by bending forward.

Ethmoidal sinusitis concerns the ethmoidal sinuses, located between the eyes. Symptoms include pain around the eyes and nose, and a feeling of pressure in this area.

• Viral infections, such as the common cold, are the most common cause of acute sinusitis. Viruses cause inflammation and swelling of the mucous membranes, leading to sinus obstruction.
• Bacterial infections: If a viral infection is prolonged, or if symptoms worsen after a few days, a secondary bacterial infection may develop. Bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis are often involved.
• Fungal infections: Fungal infections are less common, but can affect people with weakened immune systems. Fungi can cause sinusitis, especially in humid environments.

Allergies, such as allergic rhinitis (hay fever), can cause inflammation and swelling of the sinuses. Common allergens include pollen, dust, dust mites and animal hair.

Exposure to cigarette smoke, air pollution, chemicals and other irritants can cause inflammation of the sinuses. These irritants can damage mucous membranes and impede sinus drainage.

• Deviated septum: A deviated septum can block the nasal passages, preventing sinus drainage and predisposing to infections.
• Nasal polyps are benign growths of the nasal mucosa that can obstruct the sinuses and nasal passages, leading to chronic sinusitis.
• Anatomical anomalies such as enlarged turbinates or underdeveloped sinuses can also contribute to sinus drainage problems.
• Trauma to the face can damage nasal and sinus structures, causing drainage problems and increasing the risk of sinusitis.

• Humidity : Humid environments favor the growth of molds and other allergens that can trigger sinusitis.
• Dry air can dry out nasal mucous membranes, making sinuses more vulnerable to infection.

Managing sinusitis involves a combination of medical treatments, natural remedies and lifestyle modifications. If symptoms persist or worsen, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and a suitable treatment plan.

• Salt water rinses: Use a saline solution to rinse nasal cavities and reduce congestion.
• Steam inhalation: Add essential oils such as eucalyptus or peppermint to hot water and inhale the steam to relieve congestion.
• Plants like echinacea and ginger: have anti-inflammatory properties and can help boost the immune system.

• Hydration: Drinking plenty of water helps thin mucus and keep nasal passages moist.
• Use a humidifier: it keeps the air in your home moist, which can help prevent dry nasal mucous membranes.
• Avoid cigarette smoke and pollutants: Reduce exposure to irritants that can aggravate sinusitis.

• Antibiotics: Used for bacterial sinusitis. They are not effective against viral infections.
• Antihistamines: Used for sinusitis caused by allergies.
• Nasal corticosteroids: Help reduce sinus inflammation. Available as nasal sprays (e.g. fluticasone, mometasone).
• Decongestants: Used to relieve nasal congestion (e.g. pseudoephedrine). Short-term use to avoid rebound effect.
• Antifungals: Prescribed for fungal sinusitis.

• Sinus drainage: For severe or chronic cases where medication is ineffective.
• Polypectomy: Removal of nasal polyps if they obstruct the sinuses.
• Endoscopic sinus surgery: To correct structural anomalies or remove obstructive tissue.

Osteopathy treats sinusitis using a holistic, manual approach to improve sinus function and reduce inflammation. Here's how osteopathy can help treat sinusitis:

The osteopath begins with a thorough assessment of the patient to understand the origin of the sinusitis and identify areas of tension or restriction that may be affecting the sinuses. This assessment includes an examination of posture, cranial mobility, muscle tension and other factors that may be contributing to sinusitis.

Osteopathy can be an effective approach to treating both acute and chronic sinusitis. Using specific manipulations, the osteopath mobilizes the bones of the face and skull, facilitating drainage and ventilation of the sinuses. These techniques are gently applied to the face and palate, offering significant relief from the pain and pressure felt by the patient during attacks.

It is important to note that osteopathy does not directly treat allergies or inflammation. The focus is on resolving mechanical blockages that contribute to sinus obstruction during consultations.

Osteopathic work on the ear, nose and throat (ENT) system helps to relieve sinus congestion and can also have a positive impact on the respiratory system, particularly when the nasal passages are not functioning properly to drain the sinuses. Factors such as breathing pattern (nasal or buccal), tongue placement and swallowing process play a crucial role in the management of sinusitis and its tendency to become chronic. By optimizing these aspects, the osteopath helps to reduce symptoms and prevent recurrences of sinusitis.