What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathic practice is a holistic approach to healthcare that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal issues. It benefits people of all ages and stages, including babies, children, and those during pregnancy and postpartum.

Osteopathy

Osteopathy is a specialised form of manual therapy that emphasises the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders affecting the musculoskeletal system. It is based on the principle that the body’s structure and function are closely interrelated, and that optimal health is achieved when the musculoskeletal system operates harmoniously. Osteopaths utilise a variety of hands-on techniques, including stretching, soft tissue massage, and joint manipulation, to improve mobility, relieve pain, and enhance the body’s natural ability to heal.

The core principle of osteopathy is that the body has an inherent ability to heal itself, and by improving the function of the musculoskeletal system, osteopaths aim to support this natural healing process. Osteopathy is a holistic approach, taking into account not only the physical aspects of a patient’s condition but also their lifestyle, including factors such as diet, exercise, and overall well-being.

What do Osteopaths treat?

- ACUTE AND CHRONIC BACK PAIN

- JOINT PAIN/SPRAINS

- SCIATICA
- ARTHRITIS

- RHEUMATIC PAIN
- NECK PAIN AND STIFFNESS

- MUSCLE SPASM AND STRAINS

- SPORTS INJURES

- SHOULDER, ELBOW AND WRIST PAIN

- POSTURAL DYSFUNCTIONS

- FROZEN SHOULDER

- TENNIS ELBOW

- HIP AND PELVIC PAIN

- KNEE PAIN

- FIBROMYALGIA

- CERVICOGENIC HEADACHES

- MIGRAINE PREVENTION

- GENERALISED ACHES AND PAINS DURING PREGNANCY

- CRANIAL OSTEOPATHY

- PAEDIATRIC OSTEOPATHY, BABIES AND CHILDREN

What to expect from your first appointment

Your initial consultation will begin with a comprehensive case history. During this time, your osteopath will discuss the nature and onset of your symptoms, your overall medical health, and relevant lifestyle factors to gain a thorough understanding of how your condition has developed.

Following this discussion, a physical examination will be conducted. Your osteopath will assess your posture, mobility, and ask you to perform a series of basic movements. Please note that you may be asked to partially undress during the examination to allow for a clear assessment of the affected area. We recommend wearing comfortable clothing, such as a vest and shorts, to ensure you feel at ease.

After reviewing your diagnosis and examination findings, your osteopath will work with you to develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

The treatment plan may include a variety of techniques, such as:

Soft tissue massage and stretching
Myofascial release
Muscle energy techniques
Joint articulation and mobilization
Spinal manipulation
Osteopathic acupuncture
Kinesio taping
Home exercise prescription
Cranial osteopathy

If further testing is necessary, your osteopath will refer you back to your GP for additional evaluation.