Osteopathy is a form of healthcare that emphasizes the treatment of the whole person, rather than focusing solely on symptoms. It is based on the principle that the body's structure (musculoskeletal system) and function are closely interconnected and that the body has an inherent ability to heal itself when properly supported.

What to Expect:

Initial Consultation and Case History:

This includes a discussion about:

• Medical history: Past injuries, illnesses, surgeries, and treatments.

• Current symptoms: Pain, stiffness, or other concerns.

• Lifestyle: Diet, exercise habits, stress levels, and sleep patterns.

• Health goals: What you hope to achieve through treatment.

Physical Examination:

This can include the following examinations depending on the person:

• Observation: Examining your posture, gait, and body alignment.

• Palpation: Using hands to feel for areas of tension, stiffness, or restricted movement in muscles, joints, and tissues.

• Range-of-motion tests: Guiding you through movements to assess flexibility and mobility in specific areas.

• Neurological or circulatory checks: If needed, to rule out serious underlying conditions.

Discussion of findings:

Explaining the assessment which often includes:

• The possible causes of your symptoms.

• How osteopathic treatment may help.

• The techniques they plan to use during the session.

• Any additional lifestyle or exercise recommendations.

Treatment:

Osteopathic treatment is hands-on and may include a combination of the following techniques:

• Soft Tissue Manipulation: Massaging muscles to release tension, improve circulation, and reduce pain.

• Joint Mobilization: Gently moving joints through their range of motion to improve flexibility and relieve stiffness.

• High-Velocity Low-Amplitude (HVLA) Thrusts: A quick, precise manipulation to release joint restrictions and modulate the nervous system (sometimes producing a "popping" sound).

• Myofascial Release: Targeting the connective tissue (fascia) to alleviate tightness and improve movement.

• Cranial Osteopathy: Gentle manipulations of the head, skull and sacrum, sometimes used for stress, headaches, or babies with birth-related issues.

• Visceral Manipulation: Techniques focused on the abdomen to improve organ function.

  Holistic aftercare advice:

Tailored and personalised recommendations to support your recovery, such as:

• Stretching or strengthening exercises.

• Ergonomic advice for posture or work habits.

• Lifestyle adjustments, like improving sleep or reducing stress.

Why Osteopathy?

Osteopathy has been shown to:

✔️ Reduce stress and anxiety
✔️ Reduce pain
✔️ Modulate nervous system activity
✔️ Improve posture & mobility
✔️ Support physical recovery ✔️ Improves digestive issues such as IBS
✔️ Helps ease pregnancy related discomfort