Osteopathy

Let's find out more about Osteopathy and how it can help you

Osteopathy

Osteopathy is a way of detecting, treating and preventing health problems , this can involve  moving, stretching and massaging a person's muscles and joints.

Osteopathy is based on the principle that the wellbeing of an individual depends on their bones, muscles, ligaments and connective tissue functioning smoothly together.

The aim of an Osteopath is to :

  • increasing the mobility of joints
  • relieve muscle tension
  • reduce pain
  • enhance the blood supply to tissues
  • help the body to heal

They use a range of techniques.

In the UK, osteopathy is a health profession regulated by UK law.

When it's used

Osteopaths help with conditions that affect the muscles, bones and joints, such as:

  • lower back pain 
  • uncomplicated neck pain
  • shoulder and elbow pain including tennis elbow
  • arthritis                 
  • problems with the pelvis, hips and legs
  • muscle and joint pain associated with driving, work or pregnancy
  • sports injuries

Please seek advice from a GP or midwife if you are pregnant prior to seeing an osteopath. You should also make sure you see an osteopath who specialises in muscle or joint pain during pregnancy.

 

At your first osteopathy session, the osteopath will ask about your symptoms, general health and any medical history before carrying out a physical examination

 

Osteopathic techniques

An osteopath aims to restore the normal function and stability of the joints to help the body heal itself.

They use their hands to treat your body in a variety of ways, using a mixture of gentle and forceful techniques.

Techniques are based on the individual patient and their symptoms .

These may include :

  • massage – to release and relax muscles
  • stretching stiff joints
  • articulation – where your joints are moved through their natural range of motion
  • high-velocity thrusts – short, sharp movements to the spine, which normally produce a clicking noise similar to cracking your knuckles

These techniques aim to reduce pain, improve movement and encourage blood flow.

Your osteopath will explain whether you're likely to have any reactions. If you feel any pain during or after treatment, tell your osteopath.

You may be given advice on self-help and exercise to aid your recovery and prevent symptoms returning or getting worse.

In general, the first appointment will last about 45 minutes to an hour. Further treatments last around 30 minutes. Your course of treatment will depend on your symptoms.

To book an appointment with our Osteopath click here.

Content courtesy of the NHS website.

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Saturday 10:00 - 14:00

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5 - 7, Church Hill Road, East Barnet,
Herts, EN4 8SY