Osteopathy is a form of manual healthcare which focuses on your neuro-musculoskeletal system - the bones, muscles, nerves and other tissues that support your body and control its movements.
Osteopaths take a thorough medical history and do a comprehensive clinical examination to assess the problem areas and make a diagnosis to work out the best treatment plan for you.
Each condition is unique, so treatment will vary from person to person. Osteopathy takes a holistic approach to treatment, so your practitioner may look at other parts of your body, as well as the area that is troubling you.
For example, if you have a sore knee, your osteopath may also look at your ankle, pelvis and back.
Depending on your condition or any concerns you have raised, your osteopath may require some further tests or referral to another health practitioner or your GP.
Osteopathic treatment uses hands on techniques such as stretching, massage, myofascial release, muscle energy techniques, trigger point inhibition, for general treatment of the soft tissues (muscles, tendons and ligaments) along with articulation and mobilisation of specific joints.
Craniosacral techniques may also be used as part of or as a whole treatment.
Your osteopath may also provide education and advice to help you manage your condition between appointments.
This may include giving you advice on posture, ergonomics or exercises to do at home or work.
The most common complaints for which patients consult Osteopaths include:
- Back and Neck pain and stiffness
- Sciatica
- Headaches
- Joint pain
- Tendinitis and muscle strains
- Work-related and repetitive strain injuries
- Sports-related injuries
- Arthritic conditions
- Whiplash
- Postural problems
Osteopathy can also be of value in reducing the severity of musculoskeletal symptoms which can often be associated with conditions such as asthma, gynaecological dysfunction, digestive disorders and headaches.
Osteopathy is also excellent as a preventative treatment - don't wait until you are in pain!
Practitioners: Vanessa Malone
Read what our patients say - What is a Osteopath
