What is osteopathy and who is it for?

Osteopathy is a system of diagnosis and treatment, focusing on the structure and function of the human body to restore physical wellbeing. One of the underpinning theories is that restrictions and/or dysfunctions that exist in one area of the body may lead to problems in another area. This might be due to poor compensation patterns or increased strain on an area. For this reason, osteopaths look at the whole person and how the person’s individual circumstances have come about. This approach can be helpful in both the treatment and prevention of musculoskeletal problems. Using this comprehensive approach to assessment and treatment, the osteopathic belief is that the body may heal itself, given the right environment in which to do so. Osteopaths utilise this approach in treating a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including:

• back and neck pain

• sciatica

• joint pain, including hip and knee pain associated with osteoarthritis

• repetitive strain injuries such as tennis elbow

• sports injuries

• shoulder pain, including frozen shoulder

• muscle tension

• headaches that arise from mechanical problems in the neck

People of all ages can visit an osteopath, including children, older people, sports people, manual workers, office professionals and pregnant women.

How much training do osteopaths have?

Osteopaths are healthcare professionals who undertake a 4-5 year degree course to then register with the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC). Osteopathy is statutory regulated which means the standards of the profession are maintained at very high levels and you must, by law, be registered with GOsC in order to call yourself an osteopath.