Osteopathy refers to detecting, treating and preventing health problems. This happens through the process of moving, stretching, massaging and manipulating a person's muscles and joints (NHS, 2021). "Osteopathy is based on the principle that the well-being of an individual depends on the bones, muscles, ligaments and connective tissues functioning smoothly together" (NHS, 2021).
This process is to support:
- Increasing the mobility of the joints.
- Reducing pain.
- Encouraging blood supply to bodily tissues.
- Relieving muscle tension.
Many Osteopaths are also trained in Acupuncture. Dry needling may be used to release tension in the muscles.
People can only call themselves Osteopaths if they are registered with the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC). Only then are they allowed to practice Osteopathy.
So, Osteopathy can help support the body in a number of ways, but when is it used?
Osteopathy can support both acute and chronic pain, such as:
- Lower back and neck pain.
- Shoulder pain.
- Elbow pain (such as tennis elbow, or golfer's elbow).
- Arthritis.
- Issues with the hips, pelvis and legs.
- Sciatica.
- Muscle and joint pain associated with your job, driving or pregnancy.
- Sports injuries.
- There are also many other conditions unrelated to the musculoskeletal system that Osteopathy may be effective for, please do get in touch to ask whether Osteopathy may be able to help you.
(If you are pregnant, you should seek advice from a GP or midwife about your symptoms before you see an Osteopath).
What happens during an Osteopathy Appointment?
As a new patient it can be helpful to know what to expect from your first Osteopathy Appointment.
- Your Osteopath will confirm your personal details.
- Your Osteopath will ask you the reason for your visit today and enquire about your medical history.
- Your Osteopath will then assess what is causing you pain, discomfort or concern.
- Your Osteopath will provide hands-on manual treatment, which could include massage, manipulation and stretching. If appropriate, Dry Needling is used to relieve muscle tension.
- Your Osteopath will explain what the next steps are in your treatment. You may be given exercises to help manage your condition and you may require a Follow-up Appointment. This will be discussed with you.
- If your Osteopath believes you require extra support, such as referral to a Consultant, or an MRI, this will be arranged for you.
Osteopathy at Raleigh Park Clinic
As well as providing hands-on treatment, our Osteopath and Clinic Principal Steve aims to educate his patients, allowing them to self manage their condition using simple exercises and by offering occupational and postural advice which is invaluable in keeping them injury free and preventing further problems developing.
In some cases, patients will require extra support from another healthcare professional. Steve has developed a strong network of local healthcare professionals including GP's and consultants, and if required, can arrange for imaging such as an MRI and Ultrasound quickly.
Please do get in contact if you would like further advice or information about how Osteopathy could help you.