How can Osteopathy help?
Why do people seek osteopathic treatment?
Osteopaths use a holistic approach to treat the body as a whole. We consider the whole person - their symptoms, the stresses and strains placed upon their body through work, sport and other activities, past injuries, postural problems etc. We believe this helps to give us a comprehensive picture of why your body has developed dysfunctional areas, and how best to help your body resolve the issue and restore a state of balance and health. The types of problems and symptoms that often lead to people seeking osteopathic treatment are:
- general, acute and chronic back pain
- sciatica
- neck pain
- joint pain
- neuralgia
- shoulder and elbow pain
- arthritic pain - including hip and/or knee arthritis
- minor sports injuries and tensions
- for migraine prevention
- relief from headaches arising from the neck (cervicogenic headaches)
- fibromyalgia
- cramp and muscle spasms
- an inability to relax
- generalised aches and pains
This is not a definitive list, please contact me if you wish to discuss how osteopathy may be able to help with your symptoms.
I have worked with a wide variety of different people, from a one day old baby to an elderly lady in her 90's! From robust, fit sports men and women, to delicate patients with long-term health issues. Osteopathy really can be adapted for all. There are so many different osteopathic techniques to call on that it is a simple matter to utilise those best suited to the individual needs of the patient. Please don't worry if you've heard osteopaths just 'crack your neck' - this form of manipulation can be very effective but is not suitable for all patients, and indeed some patients simply choose not to have the technique used. There are many other effective ways of releasing a joint in these situations, so don't let fear of one technique hold you back from seeking treatment.
What to expect from a session
During your first appointment I will ask questions about the problem and symptoms you're seeking treatment for. I will also ask questions about your general medical history, previous accidents and injuries, and any medication you're taking.
I will then perform an examination to try and identify the areas of dysfunction and diagnose the source of your symptoms. This normally involves undressing to your underwear, but if you're uncomfortable with this it is possible to examine and treat through loose fitting or stretchy shorts (they must allow full movement in the hips) and a thin t-shirt or vest top.
The examination will involve a standing examination where you will perform some movements and I will observe your posture. I will also examine you sitting and lying down where I will take your joints through their range of movement and I'll palpate your tissues to locate the problematic areas. The examination involves assessing how the whole body is working, as often a problem that presents with pain in one place may be linked to restrictions and dysfunction in another area of the body.
Your diagnosis will then be discussed with you and a treatment plan will be agreed upon. As the treatment is performed I will discuss with you the techniques I wish to use and will gain your consent before proceeding. I will also talk you through any exercises, stretches and advice regarding posture that will help to reinforce your response to treatment. You will also be advised on activities and movements to avoid to help prevent further aggravation of the problem.
It is not uncommon to be sore after the treatment. This usually lasts 24-48 hours, and you will be advised of this during the treatment session.
Why choose osteopathic treatment?
Osteopaths believe that the body is a self-repairing, self-adjusting, self-regulating system, that most of the time helps to maintain health and well-being within an individual. However, osteopaths believe that stresses, strains or trauma - physical, mental or emotional - can create mechanical imbalances that negatively affect the body's ability to maintain this state of health.
Our aim, as osteopaths, is to identify the dysfunctional areas that are interfering in your body's own ability to repair and adjust itself. We believe that if we can use osteopathic techniques to help ease areas of tension, improve mobility and improve the circulation of the blood and lymph, we can help the body to restore health to the dysfunctional area, and therefore restore balance and health in the body as a whole.
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