About Osteopathy
Osteopathy was founded in America in the 1860’s by Andrew Taylor Still, a physician who was frustrated at the limitations and toxic side effects of the medicines at his disposal when his two young sons became very ill.
Today’s medicines are far safer, but the scope of Osteopathy is so wide that it can help in many varied conditions.
What can Osteopathy help with?
Contrary to popular belief, Osteopaths don't just treat back pain! Osteopathy is an established system of clinical diagnosis and manual treatment in which a holistic approach to the patient and attention to individual needs are of primary importance.
It is suitable for all ages.
Some of the conditions which Osteopathy can help relieve include are:
- Backpain and sciatica, joint pain, muscular aches, pains and strains
- Arthritic pain, mobility problems and shock resulting from falls
- Period pain
- Repetitive Strain Injury
- Shoulder and neck pains
- Symptoms of chronic respiratory infections, colds and coughs
- Neuralgia and sinus pain
- Teeth grinding, jaw pain, headaches and migraines
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Sports Injury, Tennis Elbow and Golfer's Elbow
- Postural problems caused by pregnancy, driving or work strain
- Asthma and respiratory problems
- Scoliosis
- Colic and sleeplessness in babies
What is Osteopathy?
Osteopathy offers a unique contribution to healthcare, by focusing on the importance of the biomechanics and physiology of the musculoskeletal system in overall health.
Osteopaths provide healthcare through touch and manipulation of the body with the aim of improving the structure (and therefore function) of the tissues, to enable a return to health by enhancing or stimulating the body’s own healing mechanisms.
Osteopaths view disease as the failure of the adaptive mechanisms of the body in counteracting day-to-day stresses (for example physical, environmental, chemical and emotional stimuli). It is a system of manual medicine which may be supplementary, complementary or alternative to other healthcare practises.
The treatment revolves around physically manipulating the patients body (usually gently, sometimes more vigorously) in order to remove barriers to motion. Generally, good movement (of joints, muscles, lymph, nerve and blood flow) equals good health.
The method and application of manipulation is tailored to the needs and tolerance of the patient.
There are many different styles and methods of manipulation that osteopaths can draw on to achieve their aim of restoring good mechanical function of the body tissues. The so-called HVT or thrust techniques, usually known to patients as the "clicks" are just one of these (See July 2007 Online Help for more detailed information about HVTs).
It is the osteopath's job to explore the source of the problem and realise the effect on the body in a holistic sense, before using the appropriate method to restore function.
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