What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is an established system of diagnosis and manual treatment that recognizes and promotes the good health of the musculo-skeletal system: the muscles, joints, ligaments and tissue under the skin. Osteopaths take into consideration all aspects of a person's health, rather than limiting themselves to the symptoms.

Osteopaths work with their hands. This allows them to tailor each treatment personally to the patient as they constantly monitor changes in the tissues. Osteopaths treat the cause of the problem and not just the symptoms. Using a specially developed sense of touch they investigate and identify the problem areas throughout the body and then select the treatment technique most appropriate to the individual to encourage and help the body to return to its normal efficient function.

Osteopaths have undergone an extensive four or five year degree course covering anatomy, physiology and pathology of the human body. This enables them to evaluate the best course of action and whether osteopathic treatment is suitable for you.

Osteopathy is recognised by the British Medical Association and in 1993 became the first complementary healthcare profession to be accorded statutory recognition.

How can osteopathy help?

Osteopathy does much more than help relieve low back pain. It is also a very effective treatment for most musculo-skeletal problems found in any age group, including:

• Sports injuries
• Hip, knee and ankle pain
• Repetitive strain injuries
• Whiplash and car accident trauma
• Tennis elbow/ Frozen shoulder
• Osteoarthritic pain
• Pre and post-natal muscle and joint pain
• Headache/migraine

This list is by no means exhaustive and osteopaths usually work on the problem area and try to address other factors that contribute to and prolong the problem.

Your First Visit

During your first visit we will discuss not only your current problem but also your general health and past medical history in order to build up a full picture.

Following the case history discussion, a postural analysis and gentle motion test will be carried out in order to assess how well your body is working – for these you may be required to undress to your underwear.

If it is felt to be necessary, we will, with your permission, undertake more specific clinical tests. After examination, the diagnosis and suitable course of treatment will be discussed with you. Treatment consists of a bespoke set of stretches, massages and manipulations to re-establish postural and tissue balance.