What is osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a system of manual medicine which complements conventional medicine. In health, the body should be able to adapt to the daily demands placed on it but sometimes events occur which are too much for the body to correct itself without assistance. This is where Osteopathy can help.

Most people associate Osteopathy with bones but Osteopaths assess the whole body including the bones, muscles, ligaments, fascia and internal organs. As they do this assessment, they use their well trained eyes and hands to find the problem areas that are causing that individual their pain.

 

By doing this, Osteopaths are looking for and treating the root of the problem rather than just treating the symptoms. 

Gentle techniques including soft tissue, joint mobilisation, articulation, visceral manipulation and cranial manipulation are used to restore function to the problem areas.

Osteopathic treatment will increase the mobility of joints, relieve muscle tension, enhance the blood and nerve supply to tissues, all of which will help your body’s own healing mechanisms. 

 

Remember, Osteopaths are highly skilled and undergo a minimum of four years training. Osteopathic treatment is suitable for babies, children, pregnant women, adults and the elderly.

Osteopaths can also give you advice on management and self-help for your pain.