OSTEOPATHY

An osteopath seeks to restore the body’s normal function. The manual therapy-based approach sees Osteopaths use hands-on techniques to manipulate the body and promote self-healing. An Osteopath will never claim to “fix” a patient’s problem, they will, however, restore the body to an optimal functioning state, remove potential barriers to healing and allow the patient to be in a better state to recover.

Osteopaths have the skills to treat a range of acute and chronic conditions associated with muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, fascia, and nerves.

Most Osteopaths are considered structural Osteopaths and can treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. Some Osteopaths will also specialise in specific modalities such as Cranial, Visceral, Obstetrics and Paediatric Osteopathy and as such are able to manage a wider range of health issues.

Osteopaths are more widely known for treating the spine, namely the neck and back, however they can in fact treat any musculoskeletal disorder, sports injury, or postural deficiencies.

Both Osteopaths and Chiropractors work with the goal of helping the patient to manage their symptoms however the principles which inform their treatment decisions do differ.

Typically, Chiropractic appointments are shorter and tend to focus on manipulation of the peripheral joints and the joints of the spine. They may also take some x-rays on the first treatment to help with their form of diagnosis. Osteopaths, however, employ joint manipulation techniques when appropriate, but they also use more gentle techniques to ease the joints into a position of comfort. Osteopathy appointments are typically around 30 to 40 minutes.

Within each therapy type, the treatment will vary according to the specific practitioner. It is important to find the therapist and approach which works best for you.

An Osteopath will carry out a detailed case history and assessment to identify what is causing the Sciatica. Once the root of the symptoms is established, an Osteopath can then provide manual treatment, prescribe exercises, and give advice on lifestyle changes which may help to manage the Sciatica symptoms. An Osteopath may also refer their patient for further investigation with other health care practitioners, should this be required.

Osteopaths specialise in the treatment and management of back pain. Following a detailed assessment, they will carry out treatment to help the recovery of acute injuries, such as disc herniation, muscles strains, whiplash, and ligament sprains. They can also provide support and treatment for chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis, spinal stenosis, spondylosis, scoliosis.

In the UK, Osteopaths are not doctors, they are a regulated health care professional, as is also the case with Physiotherapists in the UK. Some Osteopaths may further their education and achieve a PhD or doctorate in a related field.

 An Osteopath will complete a 4-year degree, where they learn in-depth knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and other clinical sciences. They are trained to assess all body systems including musculoskeletal, respiratory, cardiovascular, abdominal, and nervous system. This training provides the Osteopath with a high level of knowledge and understanding to treat patients safely, or in some cases, know when to refer their patient for further investigations.

 Osteopaths in the UK are required to be registered with the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC). This registration ensures that they have completed their training through a recognised university or college, participates in annual training to keep their skills up to date, and adheres to a strict code of practice.

When attending an Osteopathic appointment, we would recommend wearing loose comfortable clothing. You may prefer to bring some clothing to change in to, such as shorts and a vest top. Your Osteopath may ask you remove an item of clothing if they need to work on a specific area, or if you have bulky or restricted clothing on. In this instance, a towel will be provided to protect your modesty.

An Osteopath can treat sport injuries in any area of the body including the spine, shoulder, ankles, knees, hips, wrists and even fingers and toes. These structures may include ligament sprains, muscles tears, strains, fractures, and bursitis. If the injury requires immediate medical attention or is beyond their scope, the Osteopath will refer for further investigation through a GP, sports medicine doctor, or an orthopaedic consultant. For any immediate medical attention that is required, the Osteopath may refer the patient to their local A&E.