What is osteopathy?

Osteopaths see an estimated 7 million patients a year throughout the UK for diverse problems such as back pain, sciatica, neck and shoulder pain. In addition, we see patients with sport’s injuries, and also babies and young children who can be treated using gentle techniques such as cranial osteopathy.

Osteopathy considers the body as a whole, looking at the underlying cause of the problem and not just the symptoms. While no two patients are alike, for acute problems which have just occurred, a patient may attend, on average, for between 3–4 treatments. However, many of our patients with an on-going condition, find benefit by continuing with regular maintenance treatment, perhaps once per month.

Osteopathy uses a variety of manual, hands-on techniques to treat the patient. Osteopaths are probably best known for ‘clicking’ or manipulating the joints, particularly of the back. However, osteopaths are also trained to use other, more gentle techniques, such as articulating or moving the joints, massage of the muscles and stretching the tissues, whilst cranial osteopathy is a technique using very gentle pressure to relieve strain. However, all methods of treatment have the same aim; to reduce pain, increase movement, and restore function. Most importantly, the treatment plan is designed for the individual patient; what is suitable for a young fit rugby player would not necessarily be suitable for an older person with osteoporosis. The osteopath is trained to choose the most appropriate treatment for each individual and will explain and agree this with you before commencing any treatment.

Safe in our hands

The General Osteopathic Council ( GOsC) is responsible for the regulation of osteopaths in the UK, in the same way as the General Medical Council is responsible for the regulation of GP’s. Since May 2000 only appropriately qualified practitioners, who have undertaken an approved course of study, (usually a four year degree) and are registered with the GOsC, are allowed to use the title osteopath.