What is Osteopathy
Osteopathy is a primary health care system, complementary to other medical practices. It is suitable for almost anyone and can contribute to the treatment and management of a wide range of conditions. Osteopaths primarily work through the neuro-musculo-skeletal system, mostly on muscles and joints, using holistic and patient centered approaches.
Osteopathic treatment is suitable for most people of any age and can contribute to alleviating a wide range of conditions. It can provide relief for simple mechanical problems and contribute to the management of a range of long-term complaints.
A core principle behind osteopathy is the idea that the body is an integrated and indivisible whole, and contains self-healing mechanisms that can be utilised as part of the treatment. No part of the body works, or can be considered, in isolation. Relevant psychological and social factors also form part of the process of patient diagnosis.
The key tools for osteopathic diagnosis include listening to the patient’s history, examining muscles and joints and observation of the patient’s movements. X-rays, scans and other clinical investigations are also used if required. A wide range of gentle, non-invasive manual techniques such as deep tissue massage, joint articulation and manipulation, are applied therapeutically. Osteopaths may also advise their patients on exercise, posture and diet.
Some patients need only one treatment, but some require a longer course, or may return to their osteopath periodically for the long-term management of a condition.
Click to download a printable leaflet about osteopathy. Click to download a poster for your school or workplace.Osteopathy, Chiropractic or Physiotherapy…what a choice!
Many people ask what the difference is between the three professions. Quite simply not a lot and a huge amount. Each profession takes from the other. What is more important is finding a practitioner you feel comfortable with, hopefully who has been recommended by someone you trust. Personally, we differentiate ourselves by our beliefs and not simply what we do with our hands.
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