Osteopathy is a form of manual therapy that can be an effective treatment, or adjunct to a multi-modal management plan, for many injuries and conditions in people of all ages. Osteopaths work on joints and soft tissues (ligaments, tendons, muscles, fascia), as well as influencing the nervous, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, and lymphatic systems. However, they also look at lifestyle and psychosocial elements contributing to their patient's wellbeing. This can include stress management strategies for headache or migraine sufferers, education on pain science for those living with persistent pain conditions, like arthritis or fibromyalgia, and ergonomic assessments for those experiencing postural-related complaints or repetitive strain injuries.
The body is a complex system with a powerful self-healing capacity, which Osteopathy aims to facilitate by helping patients eliminate restrictions or barriers impeding its' ability to do so. As simple examples, when we have a cut our body naturally produces a scab, when we sprain our ankle it naturally increases circulation to the area to help with tissue healing. Osteopaths do so by effectively diagnosing, treating, rehabbing, and educating patients on self-management and preventative tools to enable them to take control of their wellbeing.
Osteopathy is proven to be an effective treatment for the following;-Arthritic and rheumatic pain
-Circulatory and digestive problems
-Chronic pain states like Fibromyalgia
-Cervicogenic headaches and migraine prevention
-Muscle and joint problems
-Neuralgia such as sciatica or carpal tunnel syndrome
-Minor sports injuries
-Back and neck pain
-Tension, stress, inability to relax
Why do our patients come to see us?- For a specific injury, like an ankle sprain or neck pain.
- For sporting, lifestyle or surgical prehab/rehab, like ACL injuries, joint replacements or improved biomechanics for an upcoming competition.
- For lifestyle advice like working postures, stress/pain managements, return to sport and hyper-mobility syndrome management
- For help managing acute or chronic pain such as arthritic flare ups, disc injuries (note: your discs do not ‘slip’!!), tendonopathies.
- For preventative treatment for helping your body move and function as best it can so you can go from strength to strength!
Most importantly of all, Osteopaths treat YOU. We understand that you are not your condition, which is why all of our patients have personalised treatment plans and consults that take into account unique contributory elements to their pain presentation.
For example stress and dietary factors impact inflammatory levels, neurological signatures from pain experiences influence sensitisation, pre-existing health conditions and lifestyle factors influence recovery, etc.
How do they treat?Osteopaths use a variety of evidence-based treatment techniques, such as;
- Advanced soft tissue therapy techniques
- Mobilisations/Articulations
- Manipulations such as HVLAT/LVLAT (high/low velocity, low amplitude thrust techniques)
- Lymphatic drainage
- Cupping therapy
- Medical Acupuncture
- Taping
- Exercise prescription
We also look at your goals to formulate a treatment plan that works with you, for you. Whether you want to be able to comfortably play with your grandchildren, beat your PB at your next triathlon, or work on improving your breathing mechanics to help manage your COPD, your Osteopath will work alongside you to support you in achieving that goal.