What is Osteopathy?
“It depends!” – A phrase we heard far too many times while studying but the longer we work as osteopaths the more true this response becomes!
Osteopathy is a system of investigation, diagnosis and treatment. It is based on the principle that the well-being of an individual depends on the skeleton, muscles, ligaments and connective tissues functioning smoothly together. Working with the structure and function of the body is key because for the body to work well, it should function well. Osteopaths use physical manipulation, stretching and massage to:
- increase joint mobility,
- relieve muscle tension,
- enhance the blood and nerve supply,
- and to help your body’s own healing mechanisms
These treatment aims can have a profound, positive effect on a variety of health conditions.
These aims are achieved through a variety of techniques. Osteopaths are famous, or perhaps infamous, for “back cracking” which is a small part of our treatment if we even use it at all! Osteopaths may also use medical acupuncture, taping and exercises alongside the hands-on treatment depending on further training and qualifications.
Types of Osteopathy
There are four main branches of osteopathy:
- Structural
- Cranial
- Visceral
- Classical
Some osteopaths may incorporate techniques from a selection of these branches or they may have specialised in one area. They may also have specialised in treating a certain group of people, such as the elderly or athletes, or perhaps chosen to focus on a particular condition such as migraines or sport-related injuries. This will usually be highlighted on their website.
To learn more about the different type of osteopathy, click here!
What Type of Osteopathy Do We Offer?
Sam and Holly work primarily as structural osteopaths with elements of visceral techniques combined with medical acupuncture where appropriate. Sam has a special interest in working with patients with chronic pain and experiencing pregnancy/postnatal phase of life; Holly has a special interest in nervous system regulation techniques and peri/menopause support, but both enjoy treating a wide range of patients. Variety is the spice of life, after all!
Sam plans to expand her knowledge in the visceral field and explore further professional development for treating pregnant patients and children, while Holly will be learning massage and acupucture. They both supplement their hands-on treatment with rehab exercise plans generated using quality software, Rehab My Patient, as well as the use of kinesio tape, instrument assisted soft tissue manipulation (IASTM) and sport taping techniques.
