Osteopathy is a system of medicine which involves the mobilisation of the joints and muscles to detect, treat and prevent health problems.

 

Osteopathy is based on the principle that the wellbeing of an individual relies to some extent on their physical body functioning smoothly, not just their organs. Osteopaths don’t use drugs or surgery but are trained to know if these are required, and will refer you to your GP or for further tests, such as MRI scans or blood tests. Only people registered with the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC) are allowed to practice as or call themselves osteopaths.

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Osteopaths use physical manipulation, stretching and massage with the aim of:

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• increasing the mobility of joints

• relieving muscle tension

• enhancing the blood supply to tissues

• helping the body to heal

 

Most people who see an osteopath do so for help with conditions that affect the muscles, bones and joints, such as:

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• lower back pain

• neck pain

• shoulder pain

• arthritis

• problems with the pelvis, hips and legs

• sports injuries

• headaches

• problems with posture caused by driving, work or pregnancy

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What to expect

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During your first osteopathy session, the osteopath will ask about your symptoms, general health and any other medical care you're receiving before carrying out a physical examination.

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The osteopath will use their hands to find areas of weakness, tenderness, restriction or strain within your body, particularly the spine. With your consent, you'll probably need to remove some clothing from the area being examined, and you may be asked to perform simple movements.

 

Osteopathic techniques

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An osteopath aims to restore the normal function and stability of the joints to help the body heal itself. They use their hands to treat your body in a variety of ways, using a mixture of gentle and forceful techniques. These include:

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• massage – to release and relax muscles

• stretching stiff joints

• articulation – where your joints are moved through their natural range of motion

• high-velocity thrusts – short, sharp movements to the spine, which normally produce a clicking noise similar to cracking your knuckles

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These techniques aim to reduce pain, improve movement and encourage blood flow.

Osteopathy isn't usually painful, although it's not unusual to feel sore or stiff in the first few days after treatment, particularly if you’re having treatment for a painful or inflamed injury.

 

Your osteopath will explain whether you're likely to have any reactions. If you feel any pain during or after treatment, tell your osteopath. You may be given advice on self-help and exercise to aid your recovery and prevent symptoms returning or getting worse.

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When it shouldn't be used

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Osteopathy isn't recommended where there's an increased risk of damage to the spine or other bones, ligaments, joints or nerves.

Therefore, people with certain health conditions may not be able to have osteopathy. These conditions include:

• osteoporosis

• fractures

• acute inflammatory conditions, such as some types of arthritis

• infections

• blood clotting disorders, such as haemophilia

• cancer

• multiple sclerosis (MS)

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TREATMENT DETAILS

 

Fees:

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Adults:

First consultation and treatment - 60 minutes - £50

Follow up visits:

40 minutes - £45

60 minutes - £60

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Children:

First consultation and treatment - 40 minutes - £50

Follow up visits:

40 minutes - £42

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Practitioner:  Janie Reynolds

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