An Osteopathic Approach to Lyme Disease

by Maria Rickert Hong

We interviewed Tom Moorcroft DO about an osteopathic approach to Lyme disease. Dr. Tom was featured in our book Brain Under Attack: A Resource for Parents and Caregivers of Children with PANS, PANDAS, and Autoimmune Encephalitis. You can watch the replay below. Please note that you will be asked to enter your email address at the 30-minute mark to continue viewing.

In This Webinar

In this webinar, Dr. Tom offers a unique approach to treating Lyme disease: osteopathic medicine, which offers physical manipulative treatments as well as unique insights into the cause of the illness. An osteopath understands the dynamic inter-relationship between muscles in the back and internal organs and also knows that we look the way we do in order for our bodies to function as they should.

In the current era of less-than-optimal diets, Dr. Tom has found that many of his patients have underdeveloped airways, crooked teeth, open bites, mouth breathing and obstructive sleep apnea. All of these can lead to decreased oxygen getting to their developing brains. He has discovered that many children with night sweats, tic disorders and behavioral abnormalities realize dramatic improvements, if not complete resolution of symptoms, when their oro-facial structural abnormalities are addressed.

Instead of antibiotics and IVIG, these children work with a functional dentist, a myofunctional therapist (essentially a physical therapist for the mouth and tongue) and an osteopathic physician who specializes in osteopathic manipulative treatment. These patients may also need other interventions, such as antimicrobial treatments and dietary modifications, but addressing their underlying structural issues improves oxygenation and eases physical strains on their developing brains, which in turn leads to less inflammation, less symptoms and improved overall health and development.

Key Discussions

The Importance of the Autonomic Nervous System

The autonomic nervous system, particularly the role of the parasympathetic branch (including the ventral vagus nerve) in rest, recovery, and social engagement, is vital for maintaining a healthy immune system. Activating the ventral vagus through positive emotions like love and gratitude can improve heart rate variability and overall health, highlighting the connection between emotional state and physical health.

Mind-Body-Spirit Interconnectedness

There is a profound interconnection between the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of an individual’s health. Addressing only one aspect neglects the complexity of the human experience. Approaches that concurrently manage these dimensions, including osteopathic manipulation, can enhance healing and provide more comprehensive care for conditions like Lyme disease.

Impact of Mindset on Healing

The beliefs and attitudes that individuals hold can significantly influence their physiological responses and health outcomes. This is exemplified by the placebo and nocebo effects. Promoting a positive mindset and minimizing negative thoughts can improve resilience against illness and bolster one’s capacity for recovery.

Integrative Approaches to Chronic Illness

Conventional treatments, such as antibiotics, can be effective but may not be sufficient when treating complex chronic illnesses like Lyme disease. Integrative approaches that address various factors, including bacterial load, immune system modulation, detoxification, and structural issues, can be more effective. Providers should consider a patient’s entire clinical picture and incorporate treatments that stimulate the body’s natural healing mechanisms, such as with osteopathic practices.

Timestamped Overview

00:00 CHIRP™ and FLIGHT™ studies
30:45 Emphasizing need for rest and recovery.
46:01 Study on nuns and monks’ brain scans.
53:53 Sustained effort leads to better outcomes.
01:03:06 Repeated pain can lead to chronic cycles.
01:17:16 Maintain body wellness with natural herbal support.
01:31:58 Nerve ganglia in mouth affect health stimulation.
01:37:55 Natural compression is necessary for the birthing process.
01:46:05 Osteopaths in the U.S.
01:57:52 Evidence shows Lyme treatment can improve white matter disease.
02:06:45 Weekly Q&A on Lyme disease and more.

About Tom Moorcroft DO

Dr. Tom Moorcroft is a global leader in solving complex medical mysteries. He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Vermont before attending the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine (UNECOM). While at UNECOM, Tom was selected to complete a one-year fellowship in Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine.

Tom completed his residency training in Family Medicine at Middlesex Hospital in Middletown, CT. He is also board certified in Family Medicine and Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment.

He is a co-founder of Origins of Health, an Osteopathic wellness center, focused on solving the riddles of chronic illness to enable their patients to regain their health and regain their lives.

Dr. Moorcroft specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of chronic tick-borne illness, mold illness and Infections-Induced Autoimmune Encephalitis in children and adults. Learn more about Dr. Moorcroft at www.OriginsOfHealth.com

Disclaimer

This webinar is not a substitute for medical advice, treatment, diagnosis, or consultation with a medical professional. It is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be relied on to make determinations related to treatment of a medical condition. Epidemic Answers has not verified and does not guaranty the accuracy of the information provided in this webinar.

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