A form of hands-on manual therapy, regulated by the General Osteopathic Council, osteopathy works with the musculoskeletal system, our bones, muscles and joints, to improve the health and wellbeing of patients.
Based on a thorough knowledge of the human anatomy and physiology, osteopathy recognises the importance between the structure of the human body and the way it functions. Osteopaths are trained to use the same diagnostic techniques used by your GP, but also diagnostic tests specific to our profession. Crucially, osteopaths take time to listen to their patients, considering problems that may seem unrelated to pain but which may, in fact, be central to that person’s wellbeing.
Treatments are bespoke to each individual patient, so particular methods involved will differ from one patient to the next. However, osteopaths tend to use a variety of joint mobilisation, manipulation and gentle stretching techniques to improve joint movement and promote good circulation. This helps the body to facilitate the healing process.
Osteopathy is a drug-free treatment and osteopaths do not prescribe medicines. Osteopathy is safe to use during pregnancy, and a suitable treatment for people both young and old.
Common conditions often helped by osteopathy include back pain; neck pain; headaches and migraines; whiplash injuries; shoulder and neck stiffness; joint pain, stiffness and arthritis; repetitive strain injuries (RSI); postural problems including changes during pregnancy; nerve pain (including sciatica); and sports injuries.
If you are unsure whether osteopathy will be able to help in your particular case, please don’t hesitate to contact me and I will be happy to advise. Please get in touch to arrange a free 15 minute consultation.
On your first visit, my aim is to find the root cause of the problem. This will involve asking questions about how and when when your symptoms started, what it feels like, timing, daily pattern and what makes the pain better or worse. It is natural to worry about what may be causing your symptoms, and we can discuss any concerns during your appointment.
I will also ask about any issues with other joints, your health in general, and any significant events in the past such as accidents or surgery.
I will then observe your joint movement, within your pain limits, making note of any tightness, limited movement or pain. I may also perform orthopaedic tests to assess the condition of the nerves, joints, muscles and ligaments. It may be necessary to ask you to remove some clothing so we can assess the areas of your body causing concern. If you are uncomfortable undressing to your underwear, you can bring clothing such as shorts, t-shirt or close fitting garments that will enable us to work effectively without making you feel uncomfortable.
Once I have established a working diagnosis, I will explain what I have found what I think is going on. I can then let you know how I can best help, and whether we need to make any referrals. We will normally begin your treatment at your first appointment. Treatment will be bespoke to each individual patient, so particular methods involved will differ from one patient to the next. However, I tend to use a variety of gentle hands on techniques that focus on releasing tension, stretching muscles and mobilising joints. You may experience mild discomfort afterwards, but this is a normal part of the healing process and will usually resolve within 24 hours.
During the session, I will also provide information, advice and exercises designed to help you relieve or manage your pain, keep active and maintain the best of health. Treatment may require several visits, during your first appointment, I will let you know how many visits is recommended. You are welcome to bring someone else with you to your consultation.
Please download this poster, which provides things to consider, ahead of your consultation; 591c8ea7-a2c6-487f-8667-37a36e9b72d7
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