Dr. Chaitow points out the implications of one structural problem, a restriction of movement in the upper spinal or rib area that also involves the muscles of that region. The causes of this problem are numerous, and can include occupational or sport-related injuries (including overuse through repetitive activities), emotional tensions, and internal diseases. A person with these restrictions may have a breathing problem, such as asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, or problems relating to a heart condition. Osteopathic treatment can bring more suppleness and mobility to this area, which will ultimately benefit breathing function and help prevent future problems.

  Any mechanical restriction in the physical body can influence entire systems and organs. Restriction of any area of the spine can directly affect the organs and systems related to that area. Dr. Chaitow says, osteopathic care has been able to, if not cure, allow the patient mobility enough to move in the direction of a cure, especially concerning digestive sicknesses (including liver and pancreatic dysfunction), bowel disorders, bladder and menstrual problems, prostate congestion, and a multitude of joint and muscle-related problems.

  The body's largest energy user is the musculoskeletal system. Tension or restriction in this system wastes energy and can cause any number of health problems.

  Dr. Chaitow says, with chronic fatigue syndrome, it has been found that the person affected has a tendency toward hyperventilation (overbreathing) which is always associated with shortened muscles in the upper chest/neck area and with some restriction of mobility of ribs and the spinal joints.

  Osteopathic attention to the ribs and spine combined with physical therapy to retrain the area is probably the most effective method for normalizing a problem like hyperventilation, with all of its devastating consequences (phobias, panic attacks, anxiety, fatigue). This has clearly been demonstrated in London's Charing Cross Hospital's cardiovascular unit, where hundreds of people have been dramatically helped in this way.

  Psychiatrist Michael Lesser, M.D., observes that chronic muscular tensions in the upper spine are a prime cause of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) since these tissues are burning fuel at an amazing rate, creating a constant requirement for glucose which the person may try to meet through sugar-rich snacks and stimulants.