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Osteopathy is based on an established system of clinical diagnosis & hands-on treatment. Osteopathy applies itself to the body's biomechanical problems. Central to the osteopathic concept is that much of the pain & disability affecting people stems from abnormalities in the function of the musculoskeletal system rather than any identifiable or discernible pathology.
Osteopathy uses some of the diagnostic procedures used in a conventional medical assessment and diagnosis. The patient is uniquely assessed from a mechanical, functional and postural standpoint. The manual methods of treatment are applied to suit the needs of each individual patient.
Contrary to popular belief, Osteopathy is not just for bad backs. Virtually any region of the body, from the jaw to the big toe, may be amenable to treatment. Many other conditions have been helped by Osteopathy & your local osteopath will be glad to deal with your enquiry.
A full medical history will be taken. You will normally be asked to remove some of your clothing and to perform a series of active movements.The osteopath will then use their sense of touch to identify any problematic areas. Other tests/examinations may be required to reach a diagnosis. Your problem & a proposed plan of treatment will be explained to you. If treatment is inappropriate, you will be told & referred on if necessary.
The treatment itself is non-invasive, usually gentle & generally painless. A variety of techniques may be used. These include muscle and connective tissue stretching, rhythmic joint movements called articulation & high velocity thrust techniques. Gentle releasing techniques are often used, particularly when treating children or elderly patients.
Most osteopaths undergo a four-year, full-time degree course. This includes all the basic medical sciences & pays detailed attention to the musculo-skeletal system. Practical experience is gained from learning technical procedures which are practised on one another. The clinics run at the training colleges enable students to gradually gain knowledge & experience of treating patients.
We are thoroughly trained to recognise any contra-indications to treatment.
A survey in 1986, published in Which magazine, showed nearly 90% of patients consulting an osteopath reported having had their condition cured or improved.
There are currently over 3000 osteopaths working all around the U.K., treating more than 20,000 patients every day – that`s well over 5 million consultations a year!
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