Osteopath

Abdel Chimal

In 2018, after working as a physiotherapist for ten years, I fulfilled a long-cherished wish: I started studying Osteopathy at the International Academy of Osteopathy (IAO). This decision did not happen overnight. I had only been working as a physiotherapist for four years when I came into contact with osteopathy through a colleague. I was familiar with the term, but I didn’t know what the profession exactly entailed. After I realized what you as an osteopath could do for a patient, I knew that I wanted to become an osteopath. There was some time between knowing and doing. I became the father of two beautiful daughters and in the same period I started a physiotherapy partnership in Amstelveen.

The holistic approach within osteopathy really appeals to me. I have always experienced this as a shortcoming in physiotherapy and within the various specializations. As an osteopath I approach people as a whole: physically, mentally, energetically and spiritually.

Body tissues that are not harmoniously connected with each other cause limitations. These can occur locally and/or elsewhere in the body. As an osteopath I look for the source of the limitation and treat it. This makes the profession so beautiful and meaningful: we do not treat symptoms. This method eliminates the cause of the problem and I work towards a sustainable result. This gives me and my patients a lot of energy.

I know Ilona from the internships I did with her in Amsterdam-Oost & Zwolle. During my training at the IAO in Zeist and during the internships, my enthusiasm for the profession only increased. The enthusiasm translated into even more motivation to successfully complete the course. I experienced my internships as a pleasant and educational period. Especially seeing how people got rid of their complaints (sometimes after a long time) after a few visits to the osteopath, made a deep impression on me. The working atmosphere is pleasant and the colleagues are friendly and helpful. I am happy to now also be part of the team in Amsterdam.

As a (sports) osteopath, I now pay close attention to people as a whole and I examine the body both clinically and emotionally. In collaboration with the patient, I strive to eliminate or reduce complaints.