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Osteopathy
Osteopathy is a health care system that lays
emphasis on all structural and mechanical elements of the body. The bones,
muscles and joints are collectively known as the musculo-skeletal system,
and osteopaths are primarily concerned with how this system can
function at an optimal and pain-free level. When the structure of a
body is functioning correctly, there should be a minimal amount of
wear and stress on these tissues.
Our bodies are subject to many kinds of stress
(physical and emotional) every minute of the day. We are designed to
combat these assaults through tissue repair; a healthy immune
system; enough sleep and optimal nutrition. It is only when the
stress is excessive or when the body's normal defence or repair
mechanisms are impaired that symptoms and disease occur. This is
when treatment becomes necessary.
By taking a full and comprehensive case
history and examining the body's structure and function, the Osteopath
first seeks to establish the source of the symptoms. However, treatment will
not only be directed at the symptomatic area, but will also aim to address
the factors that may have pre-disposed the mechanical dysfunction. The body
can then continue its job of self-healing and tissue repair.
Treatment is usually gentle and should not be
painful. Most osteopaths use a combination of soft-tissue massage
type techniques; gentle joint articulation and mobilisation, and, if
indicated, joint manipulation. Advice on life-style, activities and
exercise are also given. We have a good working relationship with
all GP practices and hospitals in our area, and if a referral or
further investigation is indicated, this is done following
consultation, examination and discussion with the patient. Every
patient consultation and treatment session is strictly confidential,
and all registered osteopaths within the practice abide by a strict
ethical code of conduct.
NEW
PATIENTS
On the first consultation the Osteopath will
take a case history that will include questions about a patient's
general health, medical history and present complaint. The patient
will then be asked to undress to their underwear and examined to see
if the presenting problem is suitable for osteopathic treatment.
After a diagnosis has been made the patient will be informed of the
proposed treatment plan, including an estimate of the likely
time-scale. If osteopathic treatment is appropriate it will start at
this time. If osteopathic treatment is considered unsuitable the
osteopath will discuss this and the best course of
action.
NOT ONLY
BACKS
Although osteopaths treat many patients with
back pain and sciatica, there are numerous other complaints that can
be helped by osteopathic treatment. These may include postural,
traumatic and arthritic conditions of the neck, upper and lower
limbs as well as those of a developmental nature. Sports injuries,
occupational stresses and whiplash-type injuries often respond well
to osteopathic treatment, as do many post-operative conditions where
immobilisation has occurred (such as joint replacement or fracture
repair).
SPORTS
INJURIES
The principles of osteopathic diagnosis and
treatment lend themselves particularly well to the treatment of
sports injuries. Emphasis is placed on rehabilitation and the
prevention of injury within the framework of an early return to
sporting activity. At the practice we have experience in treatment
of athletes at local, national and international levels across a
range of sports.
CHILDREN
We have experience of treating children of all
ages (from neonates to adolescents) for a wide range of conditions
including colic, glue ear, post operative problems and disability.
There are many conditions that are amenable to osteopathic
treatment. Should you have any questions about the treatment of
children, an osteopath will be happy to discuss this with you prior
to making an appointment.
PREGNANCY
There are a number of conditions
associated with the postural and hormonal changes that occur during
pregnancy. Osteopathy can offer a drug free approach to help alleviate the symptoms
of conditions such as backache; sciatica, heartburn and pubic symphysis
pain.
Further information on Osteopathy,
Qualifications and the registration process can be found by
contacting the following organisations:
BSO - The British School of
Osteopathy
BOA - The British Osteopathic
Association
GOsC - The General
Osteopathic Council
Kettering Osteopaths
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