OSTEOPATHY
WHAT IS OSTEOPATHY?
Osteopathy is a branch of medicine based on the simple concept that if the structure of the body is in trouble the body itself cannot function properly.
The osteopath is a body mechanic whose aim is to gently restore the patient’s frame to what functions best for them. This usually involves carefully working on structures such as muscles, ligaments, bones and nerves to relieve tension and unlock joints.
An osteopath will look at your body in a holistic way, to work out the cause of your pain. Osteopaths believe that everything in the body is there for a reason, and is underpinned by three philosophies:
1. The body is an integrated unit of body, mind and spirit.
2. The body possesses self regulatory mechanisms, with the capacity to defend, repair and remodel itself.
3. Structure and function are reciprocally interrelated within the body.
Why might I go and see an osteopath?
Even though the first thing that may spring to mind is that “osteopaths treat backs” – which they certainly do, osteopaths also help conditions such as minor sports injuries, circulatory problems, cramp, frozen shoulder, neuralgia, rheumatic pain and more:
- MECHANICAL NECK PAIN
- ACUTE & CHRONIC BACK PAIN
- SCIATICA ARTHRITIC PAIN
- HEADACHES ARISING FROM THE NECK
- JOINT PAINS
- POSTURAL PROBLEMS
Restricted joints can not only produce stiffness, pain and arthritic changes locally but also irritate neighbouring structures such as nerves and blood vessels leading to problems in more distant parts of the body. Low back problems can result in sciatica and constipation, neck and upper back problems can play a part in headaches and pins and needles in the hands.
What TO EXPECT?
During your first treatment a case history will be taken. This involves asking you questions about how your injury/pain occurred, when it occurred, which things make it worse, and which things make it better. Questions about the type of work you do and hobbies that you do that might affect your condition could be asked. Your previous medical history will asked about, such as serious illnesses, or previous similar problems.
After this, with your consent, Kay will do a physical examination. This includes looking at your muscles and bone structure, posture, and checking your range of movement. Kay might ask you to bend, side-bend, or rotate to check how mobile your joints are. Your muscles and joints will be felt to determine how tight they are.
Once the examination is complete, Kay discusses with you what the diagnosis is, and how the condition is most effectively treated. Assuming that no further tests or examinations are required, treatment will then commence, and usually involves manual hands-on therapy and some prescribed exercises to do at home using www.rehabmypatient.com.
What about treatment?
The techniques that the osteopath uses depend on the condition and the patient. Structural osteopathy treatment involves gentle, manual techniques - easing pain, reducing swelling and improving mobility. Often, this involves manipulation, which can result in an audible 'crack' which is simply the sound of gas bubbles popping in the fluid of the joints.
Cranial osteopathy is a subtle type of osteopathic treatment that encourages the release of stresses and tensions throughout the body, including the head. Cranial treatment is a gentle yet extremely effective approach and may be used in a wide range of conditions including for babies and children.
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