Osteopathy is form of assessment, diagnosis and treatment aimed at a range of tissues in the body called the musculoskeletal system. This is comprised of a range of tissue shown to the right.
We work in the same world as physiotherapists but we approach pain and dysfunction in a very different way. We explore the cause of the symptoms in more detail rather than treating the sore area.
The experience you receive from an Osteopath is much more hands-on to a physiotherapist. We aim to mobilise joints and tissues in a range of areas we feel are causing issues. We also can give you exercises and stretches to supplement our work.
In a similar way to GPs Osteopaths are trained to screen for issues with the heart, brain, lungs, liver etc... to ensure your reason for visiting is being caused by these structures.
Osteopathy dates back to over 100 years ago with it's origins based in the medical school of the USA. Since expanding to the UK Osteopathy is recognised by the NHS (Allied Health Practitioner) and works alongside physiotherapists, GPs and Orthopaedic surgeons.
What to expect
A detailed case history is taken to understand your current symptoms and any wider health issues or factors that may be influencing your pain or discomfort.
Next is a physical examination that firstly screens for more serious health issues, then focuses on active and passive movements to understand the wider issue of why pain is present and not resolving.
Before you receive treatment your osteopath will explain their diagnosis and jointly agree on an appropriate treatment plan.
Osteopaths use a wide range of hands on techniques.
Treatment varies depending on your age, fitness and diagnosis, but often focuses on releasing tension, stretching muscles and mobilising joints.
Exercises and stretches can be discussed to enable you to continue with your care outside of treatment sessions.
How many appointments you may need will depend on your symptoms, lifestyle and influencing factors, but this will be discussed at your first appointment and reviewed as your treatment progresses.
We will assess what progress has been made and follow or adjust the agreed treatment plan to enable your body to function as effectively as possible.
The overall health risks associated with having osteopathic treatment are extremely low.
If you have any concerns about the safety of your treatment please feel free to discuss this as needed.
At times some soreness can be experienced from treatment the next day; however your Osteopath will discuss these as appropriate.
What to bring
It helps your initial assessment if you can change down to your underwear, however, if it is more practical to wear a pair of shorts or leggings and a comfortable vest top, then that is fine too.
Gowns are available on request; please feel free to ask your Osteopath for one.
If you have any x-blood tests, x-rays or other information regarding your health please feel free to bring these with you as it may be useful to your Osteopath.