Osteopathy

Osteopathy is a system of medicine that provides skilled diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of complaints resulting from disturbances of the body's framework and moving parts. Osteopathy is primarily concerned with the structure and function of the body, in particular the bones, joints, muscles, ligaments and connective tissues.

What treatment can an Osteopath provide?

An Osteopath can treat a wide variety of complaints, which commonly include the following:

• Low back/neck pain

• Sciatica (pinched nerves affecting the legs)

• Headaches and migraines

• Postural problems

• Osteoarthritis (wear and tear of the joints)

• Sports injuries -pulled muscles/sprained ligaments

• Injuries to joints such as elbows, knees, wrists, hands and feet

• Pregnancy related pain

• Respiratory disorder

• Digestive problems

Examination and treatment

The process of osteopathic examination and treatment is as follows.

• Initially, an accurate diagnosis is the prerequisite of a successful and safe treatment. On the patient's first visit a case history is taken followed by a thorough physical examination.

• Once a diagnosis has been made, an explanation of the presenting problem is given and appropriate treatment is undertaken.

• Treatment is based on the individual needs of the patient and may involve a range of techniques including soft tissue massage, joint articulation and focussed stretching. All treatment goals are aimed at restoring healthy joints and muscles and full range of painless movement

• Specific treatment may be followed up with home exercises if necessary.

• If further treatment is indicated, requiring one or more further attendances, a detailed treatment plan is set out.

Treatment itself

Treatment is based very much on the individual needs of the patient, some may need a firm stimulatory approach, and others may require gentle relaxing treatment.

A variety of techniques may typically be used from stretching a nd massage of the soft tissues and ligaments to rhythmic joint movement, high velocity thrust (clicking) as well as gentle releasing techniques often used for sensitive, elderly and young patients.

All treatment goals are aimed at restoring healthy joints, muscles and full range of movement.