Osteopathy

Osteopathy is an established, recognised system of diagnosis and treatment that lays its main emphasis on the structural and functional integrity of the body.

 

Osteopathy adopts many of the diagnostic procedures used in conventional medical assessment and diagnosis. Its main strength, however, lies in the unique way in which the patient is assessed from a mechanical, functional and postural standpoint and the manual ‘hands on’ methods of treatment applied to suit the needs of the individual patient. Osteopaths use a combination of movement, stretching, targeted deep tissue massage and manipulation of a person’s muscles and joints to improve function, relieve pain and aid recovery.

 

Osteopathic treatment does not target just your pain but treats the parts of the body that have caused the symptoms. Osteopaths have a holistic approach and believe that your whole body will work well if it is in good structural balance.

 

Osteopaths frequently work alongside other health professionals, such as GPs, nurses and midwives as well as alternative medical practitioners. Osteopathy works well to complement other medical interventions including surgery and prescribed medication.

​

The National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) advises that GPs can safely refer patients to an osteopath for treatment.