What is osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a system of diagnosis and treatment primarily concerned
with mechanical problems of the body, principally within the musculo-skeletal
systems (ligaments, tendons, muscles and joints). In short, if it
hurts when you move, it is probably treatable with Osteopathy.
Are osteopaths regulated by law
Osteopathy has been regulated by statute since 8th May
2000. This means anyone not registered may not call themselves an
Osteopath - it is a criminal offense to do so. This regulation has
been brought in to protect you. By ensuring all practicing Osteopaths
are competent not only in their Osteopathic skills but also in their
medical diagnosis.
Osteopaths now like doctors and dentists are Primary
Healthcare Practitioners.
What can osteopathy treat?
Osteopathy has perhaps become synonymous with the treatment of
spinal pain perhaps due to lower back pain becoming common in daily
life.
In reality osteopathy also helps pain and dysfunction in other
parts of the body (e.g. ankles, knees, elbows, ribs etc.), as well
as helping the functioning of important areas such as the thorax,
abdomen and pelvis.
Osteopathy covers more than just the fixing of symptoms as it aims
to try and ensure that the symptoms are much less likely to return
in the future.
Do osteopaths understand medical issues?
Osteopathic training includes a considerable amount of training
in medical sciences. While most osteopaths are not doctors, their
training and their registration with the General Osteopathic Council
assures the patient that an osteopath is competent at considering
and identifying 'medical' problems and liaising with the patent's
general practitioner when appropriate.
What treatments are used?
The vast majority of osteopaths treat just with their hands using
a variety of techniques designed to influence muscles, ligaments,
and joints and the nerve and blood supply to those tissues.
The osteopathic profession developed a number of techniques and
approaches now in common use. Examples are cranial osteopathy (particularly
appropriate for babies and small children), muscle energy technique
and - of course - gentle and precise joint manipulation techniques.
Osteopaths normally suggest - to some degree - advice about exercise
and exercises, diet, nutrition, sleep and of course the do's and
don'ts of prevention. Advise is always covered in a way appropriate
to each patient.
Is osteopathy appropriate for any age group?
Yes, osteopathy is appropriate for any age group from infants,
toddlers, children, adolescents, adults through to the elderly.
How long will it take?
