Why Osteopathy?

"Manipulative therapy (such as Osteopathy) - plus an exercise programme is the most effective treatment for back pain sufferers, helping them return to their normal activities" as published by the Medical Research Council (2004)

Osteopathy uniquely treats the whole body and more specifically the CAUSE, not just the immediate location of pain. The body has a natural ability to self regulate and repair, and osteopaths rely on this innate healing ability to treat their patients.

Osteopaths use a number of treatment methods ranging from massage, manipulation and stretching to help reduce inflammation, pain and muscle spasms. Our Osteopath at The Surrey Clinic also has particular focus on posture and regularly prescribes exercises to rehabilitate and correct postural imbalances.

Osteopathy can be used for a multitude of health problems from the trauma of birth to arthritis in the elderly.  Osteopathy is a safe and natural approach to healthcare with a recognised system of diagnosis and manual treatment that lays its main emphasis on the structural integrity of the body. 

Osteopathy can be used to treat many conditions; some of the most common are listed below:

What is osteopathy

Osteopathy can help reduce inflammation by a number of methods ranging from massage of soft tissues to manipulation and mobilisation of joints.

This helps to reduce pain, muscle spasm and increase mobility helping to create a healthier anatomical environment in which damaged tissues can heal.

The skilled techniques of osteopathy can allow you a speedy return to normal activity.  Treatment is aimed to reduce pain, discomfort and allow relief from your symptoms.  An osteopath will look at how your whole body functions and so be able to reduce strain on the painful area caused by mechanical problems elsewhere.

There are times when it is wise for you to take medications as well as receiving osteopathic treatment.  Osteopaths frequently work in close co-operation with your doctor.

Remember

Postural problems

Much long-term, recurrent pain is caused by degenerative changes in the body’s framework. Nobody can reverse the process of aging, however osteopathic treatments may often ease pain, reduce swelling, and improve range of joint motion.  Pain control is an important part of treatment and osteopaths give guidance on simple self-help methods to use at home.

Visiting an osteopath

When you visit an osteopath for the first time a full case history will be taken and you will be given an examination
You will probably be asked to remove some of your clothing and to perform a simple series of movements so that the mobility of your body can be evaluated.  The osteopath will identify any points of weakness or excessive strain throughout the body.

Osteopathy and Safe Practice

Osteopathy is recognised by the British Medical Association as a discrete clinical discipline.

In 1993, osteopathy became the first major complementary health care profession to be accorded statutory recognition.  This means only those practitioners satisfying the educational and ethical standards will be entitled to call themselves a registered Osteopath with the General Osteopathic Council.