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Osteopathy
Osteopathy is an established and recognised system of diagnosis and treatment with its main emphasis on the structural integrity of the body.
The pain and disability we suffer often stems from the abnormalities in the function of our musculoskeletal frame, as well as damage to it caused by disease.
Osteopathy is holistic in its approach. For optimum health, our skeleton, muscles and ligaments must be functioning smoothly together, which in turn promotes health in the circulatory and nervous system. Osteopaths recognise that the body has to be in balance on a physical, emotional and psychological level for full health to be expressed.
Osteopathic assessment and diagnosis uses a variety of procedures to determine areas of strain or weakness that may be leading to pain and discomfort. Each patient is assessed from a mechanical, postural and functional standpoint.
Since 9th May 2000 all osteopaths must be registered with the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC). This means they have undergone recognised training and are bound by government regulations, just like doctors and dentists, with patient welfare, their prime concern.
Visiting an Osteopath
When you visit an osteopath for the first time, a full case history, including medical history and any past traumas, will be taken. Next a postural examination and mobility tests will be performed. For this, it is usually necessary to undress to your underwear. However, if you are uncomfortable with this please wear loose clothing or bring shorts and/or a t-shirt.
Osteopaths use their highly developed sense of touch (palpation) to detect areas of strain or weakness and to determine the mobility of the joints. Occasionally additional tests may be required such as blood tests, such as neurological testing, evaluation of your circulatory system or muscle testing may be carried out by the Osteopath to enable them to make a detailed diagnosis. If the Osteopath feels it is necessary to refer you for further examinations such as blood tests, x-rays or scans, they will discuss this with you.
You do not need permission from your GP before consulting an osteopath. However, if you wish to claim using your medical insurance you usually require such referral before your first consultation.
How Does Osteopathy Work?
Osteopathy is a manual treatment. Using soft tissue massage and stretching alongside manipulation, osteopaths aid the blood and nerve supply to the tissues and improve mobility and flexibility in muscles and joints. This form of treatment also encourages the body to heal itself through its own self-regulatory mechanisms.
Occasionally, exercises are given to supplement osteopathic treatment and to prevent recurrence of symptoms. Osteopaths also give advice on how to manage your symptoms both at home and at work.
Some Symptoms That Osteopathy Can Help...
- Back Pain & Sciatica
- Headaches/Head Pain
- Neck Aches/Stiffness
- Facial Pain (including jaw & sinus problems)
- Shoulder Pain (including frozen shoulder)
- Rib Pain
- Tennis/Golfers Elbow
- Wrist Pain/Stiffness
- Hip/Knee Aches & pains
- Ankle Strains & Foot Pain
- Arthritic Pain
- Muscle Spasms
- Sports Injuries
- Digestive Problems
- Pain During Pregnancy
- Problems Following Childbirth
- Crying & Irritability in Babies and Children
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