FAQ’s

What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a way of detecting, treating and preventing health problems by moving, stretching and massaging a person’s muscles and joints. Osteopathy is based on the principle that the well-being of an individual depends on their bones, muscles, ligaments and connective tissue functioning smoothly together. You can find out more about Osteopathy here.

Who can Osteopaths treat?

Osteopaths can treat anyone and everyone. Osteopathy can be used in treatment for children, adults and the elderly. We do ask that anyone under 18 has a parent or guardian to accompany them.

What can Osteopaths treat?

Osteopaths can treat an array of conditions including, back pain, neck pain, shoulder injuries, headaches, knee injuries, TMJ, tendonitis and more.

What is the difference between an Osteopath, a Chiropractor and a Physiotherapist?

This is always a difficult question to ask and the answer may differ depending on who you ask, but generally…

Osteopathy is a primary healthcare profession, focusing on the diagnosis, treatment, prevention and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders, and their effects on the patient’s general health.

Chiropractic is a primary healthcare profession, specialising in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of neuromusculoskeletal disorders and their effects on the function of the nervous system and general health. It is especially related to the spine.

Physiotherapy is a primary healthcare profession, aiming to restore movement and function to the fullest potential when someone is affected by injury, illness or disability.

What training does an Osteopath go through?

The title ‘Osteopath’ is protected by law and you have to be registered with the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC) to practise in the UK. An Osteopath needs to complete a 4-year bachelors degree with at least 1000 hours of clinical training. All our Osteopath’s at The Osteopathic Consultancy have completed this training fully and are registered with the GOsC.

Is Osteopathy safe during pregnancy?

Osteopathic care during pregnancy helps to relieve or prevent symptoms enabling women to feel pain-free, relaxed and energetic. Pain in pregnancy is common but NOT normal and CAN be treated effectively and usually quite quickly.

When there are previous stresses or strains on the body prior to pregnancy the body may not be able to adapt to the extra demands so easily, resulting in symptoms such as back pain, sacroiliac pain, pubic or groin pain, rib pain, indigestion, or shortness of breath.

Osteopathy can be helpful throughout all stages of pregnancy. It is important that you advise us if you are or think you may be in the early stages of pregnancy. The first trimester of pregnancy (up to 12 weeks) carries a naturally high risk of miscarriage. While there is no proven link between osteopathic treatment and an increase in the incidence of miscarriage, osteopaths take great care when treating pregnant women and adapt their treatments appropriately. Manipulation of the lumbar spine is avoided until about 14 weeks gestation but other techniques can be used. Osteopathy is a very safe and effective treatment for the aches, pains and discomfort of pregnancy and many women find it invaluable in the later stages when the pregnancy places tremendous strain on the body.

Do I need a referral?

Most patients ‘self-refer’ to an osteopath. Although referral by a GP is not necessary, you are encouraged to keep your GP fully informed, so that your medical records are current and complete. This will ensure you receive the best possible care from both health professionals.

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