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Osteopathy
Osteopathy is a health care system that lays
emphasis on all structural and mechanical elements of the body. The bones,
muscles and joints are collectively known as the musculo-skeletal system, and osteopaths
are primarily concerned with how this system can function at an
optimal and pain-free level. When the structure of a body is
functioning correctly, there should be a minimal amount of wear and
stress on these tissues.
Our bodies are subject to
many kinds of stress (physical and emotional) every minute of the
day. We are designed to combat these assaults through tissue repair;
a healthy immune system; enough sleep and optimal nutrition. It is
only when the stress is excessive or when the body's normal defence
or repair mechanisms are impaired that symptoms and disease occur.
This is when treatment becomes necessary.
By taking a full and comprehensive case
history and examining the body's structure and function, the Osteopath
first seeks to establish the source of the symptoms. However, treatment will
not only be directed at the symptomatic area, but will also aim to address
the factors that may have pre-disposed the mechanical dysfunction. The body
can then continue its job of self-healing and tissue repair.
Treatment is usually
gentle and should not be painful. Most osteopaths use a combination
of soft-tissue massage type techniques; gentle joint articulation
and mobilisation, and, if indicated, joint manipulation. Advice on
life-style, activities and exercise are also given. We have a good
working relationship with all GP practices and hospitals in our
area, and if a referral or further investigation is indicated, this
is done following consultation, examination and discussion with the
patient. Every patient consultation and treatment session is
strictly confidential, and all registered osteopaths within the
practice abide by a strict ethical code of conduct.
NEW PATIENTS
On the first consultation
the Osteopath will take a case history that will include questions
about a patient's general health, medical history and present
complaint. The patient will then be asked to undress to their
underwear and examined to see if the presenting problem is suitable
for osteopathic treatment. After a diagnosis has been made the
patient will be informed of the proposed treatment plan, including
an estimate of the likely time-scale. If osteopathic treatment is
appropriate it will start at this time. If osteopathic treatment is
considered unsuitable the osteopath will discuss this and the best
course of action.
NOT ONLY BACKS
Although
osteopaths treat many patients with back pain and sciatica, there
are numerous other complaints that can be helped by osteopathic
treatment. These may include postural and traumatic conditions of the neck,
upper and lower limbs as well as the spine. Sports injuries and occupational
stresses often respond well to osteopthic treatment,
as do many post-operative conditions where immobilisation has
occurred (such as joint replacement or fracture repair).
SPORTS INJURIES
The principles of
osteopathic diagnosis and treatment lend themselves particularly
well to the treatment of sports injuries. Emphasis is placed on
rehabilitation and the prevention of injury within the framework of
an early return to sporting activity. At the practice we have
experience in treatment of athletes at local, national and
international levels across a range of sports.
Further information on
Osteopathy, Qualifications and the registration process
can be found by contacting the following
organisations:
BSO - The British School of
Osteopathy
BOA - The British Osteopathic
Association
GOsC - The General
Osteopathic Council
Oundle Osteopaths
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