Osteopathy

*Remember - you can book an online appointment with an osteopath for the next day.*

Osteopathy is a system of treatment based on the structure and function of the body. The aim is to establish good function that will help the blood and nerve supply to the effected area improving the healing rate or activity of the area in question. This may be achieved using a combination of Osteopathic treatment techniques as well as advising on lifestyle activities and exercise.

We treat all ages from children to adults with a sensitive approach to the patient , ensuring that the patient understands the diagnosis and how the treatment aims to improve their symptoms. We have 4 Osteopaths who each have their own specialties and interests, i.e. Sports injuries, arthritis, cranial osteopathy etc. If you think that your condition is particularly related to an activity or that you would like a specific Osteopath to treat you please ask at the time of booking your appointment. For example you may prefer a male or a female Osteopath.

We aim to provide appointments on the day providing you contact us early in the day, although at holiday times this may not be possible.

In audit we have established that you will require between 1 and 5 treatments for an acute condition (2.8 treatment sessions was the statistical figure). There are conditions that require ongoing treatment, what we call maintenance such as osteoarthritic changes to a joint such as the hip or lumbar spine. In a situation such as this the treatment is aimed at improving the function of the joint, unfortunately due to the fact that the joint is irreparably damaged the joint will reduce its function over a period of time. This time period will depend on the degree of damage to the joint and the activity it is subjected to, i.e. swimming or tennis put different loads on the joint.

When you see an Osteopath a detailed case history will be taken. You may think that some of the questions are not related to your condition however it is important in the case history to rule out all causes of the pain to ensure that Osteopathy is the appropriate course of treatment i.e. chest pain can be the result of a musculo-skeletal strain or of an infection such as pleurisy. So to establish the nature, way it started and progressed are all very important along with any predisposing factors to the condition such as asthma or smoking.

An examination will then follow that will normally require the removal of some items of clothing, if you are uncomfortable with this please inform the Osteopath. You can wear shorts or a crop top etc.