Osteopathy safely and gently balances the whole body
Osteopathy is a system of diagnosis and treatment for the wide range of medical conditions. It is based on the principle that the well-being of an individual depends on the skeleton, muscles, ligaments and connective tissues functioning smoothly together to improve blood and nerve supply to any given structure. Osteopaths use touch, physical manipulation, stretching and massage to increase the mobility of joints, to relieve muscle tension, and to enhance blood and nerve supply to tissues, to enhance the body’s natural healing ability
Advice on posture and exercise are provided to aid recovery, promote health and prevent symptoms recurring
Back pain is the most common complaint presenting in clinics across the country, with over 90% of the population suffering from it at some point in their life. Osteopathy is in a very good position to help manage this complaint as it includes manual treatment (manipulation, mobilisation and massage, along with exercise and acupuncture and tips on lifestyle) is recommended in NICE guidelines (specifically for non-specific lower back pain of more than 6 weeks duration, and less than 1 year). Further details available in the clinic.
Osteopaths
are highly qualified having completed a four year full-time course. Osteopathy as with Doctors, Nurses, Dentists and Opticians are governed by Statutory Regulation (which means that a bill has been passed through parliament to establish standards that all osteopaths must adhere to). They are Governed by The General Osteopathic Council (GOsC). You may contact them here for further information
Osteopathy may help the following conditions:
- Joint & Arthritic Pains
- Acute & Chronic Backache/Pain
- Sciatica
- Simple Mechanical Neck Pain
- Headache arising from Neck
- Migraine Prevention
- Frozen Shoulder
- Shoulder & Elbow Pain
- Circulatory Problems
- Neuralgia
- Digestion Problems
- Cramp & Muscle Spasms
- Fibromyalgia
- Inability to Relax & Tension
- Minor Sports Injuries
If you are unsure if Osteopathy could help you then why not book a free 30 minute assessment. Designed to give you time to meet with an osteopath, to ask questions and have a thorough examination.
What to expect:
At your initial consultation the osteopath will ask you detailed questions about your condition along with an overview of your medical history. To help the osteopath to gain a clear picture of your history it is very helpful if you are able to bring any X-ray/MRI scan results you may have along with any prescribed medications that you take.
A thorough examination then follows which usually includes your blood pressure being taken. You will be asked to undress to your underwear, but if you feel more comfortable you may wear a pair of shorts and a bikini top etc. There is a blanket available for your modesty or warmth.
The treatment varies depending on your age, condition and the practitioner. It may include stretching and massage, physical manipulation or gentle unwinding and cranial techniques. Cranial Osteopathy is particularly effective in acute conditions and sensitive individuals, especially babies, children and the very elderly. Functional/Fascial unwinding techniques are used similarly and are often substituted for manipulations. Rachel uses both the latter two techniques alongside the more traditional techniques.
At any time you may be referred to your GP for further tests.
You are more than welcome to bring a family member or friend to your treatment session or ask for a chaperon.