Osteopathy

Osteopathy;

Osteopathy is a tailored form of hands on manual therapy. Osteopathy incorporates a wide range of techniques to focus on improving mobility, reducing tension in the soft tissues to help optimise the function of the body. In order to do this, osteopaths will treat the part that is problematic as well as assessing the rest of the body to check for any influencing factors. Osteopathy is suitable for people and animals of all ages, fitness levels and occupations.

 

Osteopaths commonly help reduce symptoms of;

Low back pain

Neck and shoulder pain

Sporting injuries

Work/posture related pain

Hip and knee pain

Arthritis

Headaches

 

We use and adapt techniques to suit each patient. These can include;

• Soft tissue massage – this can be quite light or firm pressure to aid in relaxing tight muscles and stretching through fascia

 

• Muscle energy techniques (MET) – this technique involves the patient contracting a muscle against resistance to help in relaxing and lengthening tight muscles. It also helps to improve range of movement through a joint

 

• Articulation - this involves the practitioner mobilising joints using repetitive movements to improve movement through the joints while the patient fully relaxes

 

• High velocity, low amplitude (HVLA) techniques – This is a technique used to mobilise restricted joints. You may hear a “pop” or “crack”. This will only be performed as long the techniques are suitable for the patient and they are comfortable with it. The noise that can occur from this type of technique is not putting the bones back into place, as some people do get told. Some studies using MRI have found that when joint surfaces are suddenly separated and there is no more fluid to fill the gap, a cavity is created and this is what causes the ”crack” that is sometimes heard.

 

After treatment we usually advise the patient to try and avoid any excessive exercise (gym, heavy lifting, no heavy shopping, housework etc) for 2-3 days and drink plenty of water. Most patients feel some sort of relief straight away, however, some can feel sore for 24-48 hours after treatment, feel tired or have a headache. These are all perfectly normal reactions but if you are ever worried then you can get in touch with your practitioner for further advice. 

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