What is Osteopathy

Although osteopaths treat many conditions, most people think of us as ‘back specialists’. Back pain is what many osteopaths treat a lot of the time.

Osteopathic treatment does not target symptoms only but treats the parts of the body that have caused the symptoms. Osteopaths have a holistic approach and believe that your whole body will work well if your body is in good structural balance.

Imagine, for example, a car that has one of its front wheels not quite pointing straight. It may run well for a while, but after a few thousand miles, the tyre will wear out. You can apply this example to the human body, which is why it is so important to keep the body in good balance. We use a wide range of techniques, including massage, cranial techniques (sometimes referred to as ‘cranial osteopathy’) and joint mobilization and this breadth of approach allows us to focus on every patient’s precise needs.

Osteopaths assess and treat people of any age from the elderly to the newborn and from pregnant women to sports people.

What should I expect?

Initially you will be asked for a full history of your symptoms along with information about your lifestyle and general health. You will normally be asked to remove some of your clothing so that a detailed assessment can be made.

This will include observing your posture and movements to assess how your whole body relates mechanically to your complaint. A diagnosis will be made and a treatment plan can then be formulated with you.

Stretches, postural exercise and advice on work positions are usually given during treatment. When appropriate, diagnostic tests such as x-rays and scans can be arranged for you during a course of treatment.

You are welcome to bring along another person to accompany you during treatment.

Your treatment

Osteopaths use a wide range of gentle manipulations, depending on your age, fitness and diagnosis. Treatment is different for every patient but may include techniques such as different types of soft tissue massage and joint articulation to release tension, stretch muscles, help relieve pain and mobilise your joints.

Sometimes, when we move joints you may hear a ‘click’. This is just like the click people get when they crack their knuckles.

We may discuss exercises that you can do to improve your posture and movement in your workplace and everyday life.

Conditions we treat

The most common conditions that we treat are:

• back and neck pain
• shoulder and arm problems
• pelvis, hip and leg problems
• sports and other injuries

However, patients have found osteopathy helpful for many other conditions. If you want to find out more, any osteopath will be happy to talk to you.

Do I need to see my doctor first?

You do not need to see your doctor first if you are paying for your own treatment. However, some insurance companies require you to see your doctor first.  Osteopathy is available on the NHS in some areas – and national guidelines say it should be available everywhere for low back pain.

What should I wear?

As with any medical examination, you will probably be asked to undress to your underwear, so please wear something you are comfortable in.

Can I bring a friend or relative along?

Yes – if you wish, you can have someone present throughout your consultation and treatment.

Does Osteopathic treatment hurt?

Osteopathic treatment is always adapted to the individuals needs and can be very gentle. Some soft tissue treatment may cause discomfort during treatment. Your osteopath will tell you what to expect, and will want you to let them know if you are in pain.  You may feel a little stiff or sore after treatment. This is a normal, healthy response to the treatment.

How many treatments will I need?

In many cases a course of three to six treatments often provides the greatest benefit. If you are suffering from a chronic problem it may take longer to notice an improvement. In some cases occasional maintenance treatment may be advised to keep the symptoms at bay or prevent a relapse.

We aim to keep your appointments to a minimum. Your osteopath will be able to tell you within a short period of time whether they can treat you or if they need to refer you to someone else.