Osteopathy is a complementary Medicine that focuses on the musculoskeletal system and its importance in the health of the individual.
Osteopaths apply the philosophy of treating the whole person to the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of injuries and illness using manual and physical therapies.
Philosophy of Osteopathy
Manual medicine techniques such as those performed by osteopaths today have been documented for over 4000 years. But it was not until the 19th century that medical physician Andrew Taylor Still proposed the theory and practice of Osteopathic medicine.
His basic philosophy can be broken down into five principles:
- The body is a unit. Simply stated, you can not have a problem in one area of the body without it affecting other musculoskeletal regions or other bodily systems.
- The healing power of nature. Our bodies have all the things necessary for recovery from disease and health maintenance. The role of the Osteopath is to enhance this inherent capacity for health.
- The somatic component of disease. Andrew Taylor Still believed that the musculoskeletal system was an integral part of total body health. For complete recovery from disease or injury, problems within the musculoskeletal system must be addressed.
- Structure and Function are interrelated. Osteopaths strongly believe in the relationship between body structure and its ability to function. If a body’s structure is balanced, then it can function to its full capacity.
The use of Manipulative Therapy. Osteopaths use manipulative therapy to restore optimal body function and when and if necessary.
When you have your next treatment with your Osteopath give a thought to its wide reaching benefits, not just in the musculoskeletal system but in all other systems of your body.
How do we treat today?
Osteopaths pride themselves on their expertise using hands-on techniques.
Our treatment methods are considered one of the safest and most gentle amongst all medical professions that treat back pain, injuries and other health concerns.
A typical consultation includes comprehensive history taking, a thorough examination, hands-on treatment based on our renowned holistic Osteopathic principles, and advice on further management of your condition which could include stretching, strengthening, and posture and lifestyles changes.
We use a range of gentle treatment techniques which include:
- Deep tissue massage
- Articulation / mobilization – the movement of joints to restore functioning
- Manipulation – a quick but gentle form of mobilization
- Fascial Release – deeper unwinding techniques
- Functional – holding and balancing of individual joints or whole structures
- Osteopathy in the Cranial Field / Biodynamic Approach – gentle release of all structures using the fluid forces of the body.
All techniques aim to restore movement to areas of the body identified as being tight and restricted in movement. This enables the body to function at its optimal level which in turn allows healing to occur.
Who can benefit from treatment?
People seek osteopathic treatment most commonly for muscloskeletal problems such as:
Headaches and Migraines
- Postural and/or mobility problems
- Back and neck pain
- Arthritis
- Joint and muscular pain
- Sports injuries
- Sciatica
- Injuries from work or road accidents
Treatment can also help:
- Breathing difficulties such as asthma
- Digestive problems
- Gynecological problems
Lowered immune response after illness.
