What is Osteopathy?

 
The osteopath at workOsteopathy is a drug-free non-invasive form of manual medicine which recognises the link between the structure of the human body and how it functions. It focuses on total body health by treating and strengthening the musculoskeletal framework which encompasses muscles, fascia, ligaments, tendons, all joints and the spine itself. The aim is to positively affect the body’s nervous, circulatory and lymphatic systems.
 
Osteopaths look beyond treating the problem area alone. Osteopaths use a highly trained sense of touch to diagnose and treat.   A full case history is taken and a physical examination performed to establish each individual patient’s problem and formulate a specific treatment approach appropriate to that patient and their lifestyle. A variety of gentle hands on techniques are used including soft tissue stretching, mobilisation and/or manipulation and cranial techniques where necessary. The intent is to support and encourage the natural healing processes of all the body systems. Self help advice and/or exercises may be prescribed.
 
Osteopaths also work with babiesOsteopathy traces its roots back to Dr. Andrew Taylor Still who established it in the late 1800s in the United States of America. His aim was to use manual techniques to improve circulation and correct altered biomechanics, without the use of drugs.
 
Osteopathy is a four to five-year honours degree course. Senior osteopathic students complete clinical training under the supervision of experienced qualified osteopaths at college teaching clinics .Osteopaths believe in working as part of a health system of health providers and often refer back to the G.P. or another allied health professional where appropriate.
 
What are the benefits of Osteopathy?
 
Whether you are a baby who has undergone a difficult or prolonged birth or a toddler with recurrent ear infections osteopathy can be of benefit working alongside the body’s natural defences to improve lymphatic drainage, boost the immune system thus promoting wellbeing.
 
Whether you are a teenage sportsperson, a student lugging books or a computer game addict, osteopathy can improve function and posture with a variety of approaches.
 
Work injuries are commonplace with lifting ,driving or sitting long hours causing many problems. Complex repetitive strains can cause chronic pain - whether these are job or sport related. Osteopaths can discuss the ergonomics of the workstation and treat/advise accordingly.
The elderly can benefit from gentle osteopathic treatment to reduce the joint stiffness and pain which can accompany the aging process. Techniques are specifically tailored to the patient’s state of health.