Manual Osteopathic Therapy
Manual Osteopathic Therapy in Saskatoon
Manual Osteopathic Therapy (MOT) is a hands-on approach that assesses and treats the whole body to restore balance and function. Instead of focusing only on the area of pain, an MOT therapist investigates the deeper causes — which may be structural, soft tissue-related, or even linked to organ function.
For example, right shoulder pain might be connected to:
Pelvic imbalance — which can drop the shoulder and create strain
Spinal misalignment or nerve irritation — which can refer pain to the shoulder
Liver or gallbladder dysfunction — which can radiate discomfort to the right shoulder
Fluid congestion — where poor drainage causes pain and stiffness
Using gentle techniques, the therapist works with joints, muscles, fascia, and even fluid systems to restore healthy movement and release restrictions. Adjustments are made without forceful thrusts, and soft tissue work is combined with mobilization techniques to bring the body back into alignment.
Many people describe MOT as sitting between chiropractic care and massage — offering structural correction, but with a gentler and more integrative approach.
Book Registered Massage Therapy With:
Ashton Klassen
Your first session is typically 90 minutes and begins with a detailed health history — covering injuries, chronic conditions, lifestyle habits, and current concerns. You’ll then have a physical assessment, which may involve standing, seated, and lying evaluations to check posture, movement patterns, and areas of restriction.
You’ll be asked to bring comfortable clothing (shorts, or shorts and a sports bra) for ease of movement during the assessment and treatment.
The therapist uses a combination of:
Osteo-articular adjustments – gentle joint alignment without forceful cracking
Craniosacral techniques – releasing restrictions in the head, spine, and sacrum
Visceral normalization – improving the motion and health of internal organs
Fascial release – freeing tight connective tissue to restore balance
The touch is precise and intentional, ranging from soft mobilizations to gentle sustained pressure.
Most techniques are very gentle. You may feel light pressure, stretching, or subtle movements, but discomfort is minimal. Some clients feel immediate relief, while others may notice changes over the next few days.
Massage focuses mainly on muscles, while chiropractic care focuses primarily on joints (often with quick thrust adjustments). MOT addresses joints, muscles, fascia, organs, and fluid systems together — all with a slower, more integrative approach.
You may notice reduced pain, freer movement, improved posture, and a sense of lightness or relaxation. Occasionally, mild soreness can occur as the body adjusts to its new balance, similar to post-exercise muscle soreness.
This depends on your condition and goals. Some issues resolve in just a few visits, while chronic or long-standing problems may require a treatment plan over several weeks.
Manual osteopathic therapy is covered by the following insurance companies (consult your plan for coverage details):
Blue Cross, Chamber of Commerce, CINUP, Cooperators, Desjardins, Equitable Life, Green Shield, Group Insurance, Johnston Group, Manulife, Maximum Benefits, Sun Life.