WHAT IS IT?
Osteopathy is a patient centred system of healthcare where Osteopaths try to “Find the Health” in each patient. They use their hands to work on the soft tissues and joints of the body to reduce tension, and affect the circulatory, nervous and endocrine systems. They help to reduce pain and stiffness, improve mobility, and restore health and balance
Osteopaths are able to facilitate the body’s natural ability to heal itself by using gentle stretching, mobilising and manipulation techniques; as well offering advice on exercises, hydrotherapy, posture, and lifestyle to maintain health and prevent problems recurring
During a consultation the Osteopath will take a full case history, and then carry out a structural and medical examination in order to be able to make a full assessment – some of the structural assessment will involve making a few simple movements to assess the range of mobility and degree of restriction; the medical examination might include some standard tests such as reflexes and blood pressure. The Osteopath will then discuss their findings with you and explain how they would like to treat the problem and – if needed – discuss alternative treatments or referrals which might be more appropriate for you. Self help and prevention advice, normally, would also be offered.
WHAT WE TREAT?
- Generalised aches and pains
- Joint pains, including hip and knee pain from osteoarthritis as an adjunct to core OA treatments and exercise
- Arthritic pain
- General, acute & chronic backache, back pain (not arising from injury or accident)
- Uncomplicated mechanical neck pain
- Headache arising from the neck / migraine prevention
- Frozen shoulder/ shoulder and elbow pain/ tennis elbow arising from associated musculoskeletal conditions of the back and neck
- Circulatory problems
- Digestion problems
- Muscle spasms
- Inability to relax
- Rheumatic pain
- Minor sports injuries and tensions