What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is an established, recognised system of diagnosis and treatment that is used for treating a wide range of medical conditions including particularly pain in the lower back, neck ache and the pain of arthritis. Pain in other joints is also often able to be relieved by osteopathic treatment (these are described more fully on ‘Common Problems’ page). The osteopath will take a case history and perform an examination of the appropriate area of the body to make a diagnosis. This is then used to formulate a treatment plan.

Osteopathic treatment is a gentle series of manual techniques including manipulation, stretching and soft tissue. It helps to increase mobility to spinal and peripheral joints, relieve muscle tension and enhance blood and nerve supply to tissues. This in turn helps to reduce the body’s inflammatory responses, thus reducing pain. Advice on lifestyle, posture and exercise may also be given to help prevent symptoms recurring.

Regulation of Osteopathy

All osteopaths in the UK are regulated by the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC). It is against the law for anyone to call themselves an osteopath unless they are registered with the GOsC, which sets and promotes high standards of competency, conduct and safety.