What Is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a manual therapy which focuses on the framework of the body consisting of the bones, ligaments, muscles and connective tissues. Osteopathy treats the body as a whole and considers many aspects of the patient’s lifestyle. An important principle is the recognition of the body’s natural self-healing mechanisms.

Primarily, osteopathic treatment aims to create the optimal conditions to allow the body to restore healthy function. Osteopathy recognizes that the body works as a system, which functions best when all parts are in good structural balance. When the body’s structure is in balance, it will function with the minimum of wear, stress and energy loss. This results in less restricted movement, less pain and more energy.

Osteopaths are well known for treating back problems. However, many other conditions can be successfully treated with osteopathy.

Common Reasons for Consulting an Osteopath

Joint pain, upper or lower back pain, neck pain, headache, frozen shoulder, tennis elbow, sports injuries, hip, knee or foot pain, stiffness or tension, arthritic pain, jaw and face pain, sciatica
All levels of athletes looking to diagnose and treat an injury, aid recovery, and potentially improve performance
Expectant mothers wanting to relieve aches and pains associated with their pregnancy
Babies with colic, irritability, feeding and sleeping issues

Osteopathy and the Musculoskeletal System

The musculoskeletal system forms the framework that carries the body's network of nerves, blood vessels and lymphatics. It also physically supports the internal organs. The health of the musculoskeletal system therefore has a direct effect on the health of the rest of the body. It is because of this that osteopathy is often very helpful in treating headaches, joint problems, sports injuries and postural strains, but may also be helpful for breathing disorders like asthma, digestive problems like IBS, circulatory issues such as cramps and many nervous system conditions such as anxiety, “trapped nerves” and sciatica.

What do Osteopaths do?

The first consultation usually takes one hour and involves taking a full case history, a thorough postural and movement evaluation (biomechanics) and, if appropriate, treatment. Once a diagnosis is reached, your osteopath will discuss with you the most appropriate options relating to your care. If osteopathic treatment is felt to be appropriate, with your consent, a wide range of gentle manual techniques may be used. This may include massage, stretching and the movement of joints via gentle joint articulation or mobilization. Patients generally find osteopathic treatment to be pleasant and relaxing.

Treatment is tailored specifically for the individual and advice is given about how you can best help yourself to improve the problem and alleviate symptoms. Stretching, strengthening or mobility exercises may be prescribed, as well as advice on posture, diet, ergonomics and lifestyle.