Osteopathy is a primary health care system, complementary to other medical practices. It is suitable for almost anyone and can contribute to the treatment and management of a wide range of problems. Primarily osteopaths work through the neuro-musculo-skeletal system, mostly on muscles, joints and fascia, using a holistic and patient-centred approach.
A core principle behind osteopathy is the idea of the body being an integrated and indivisible whole, containing self-healing mechanisms that can be utilised as part of the treatment. No part of the body works, or can be considered, in isolation. Relevant bio-pyschosocial factors also form part of the process of patient diagnosis.
The key tools for osteopathic diagnosis include listening to the patient’s history, examining muscles and joints and observing movements. X-rays, scans and other clinical investigations can also be used if required. Osteopaths use a wide range of gentle, non-invasive manual techniques such as deep tissue massage, joint articulation and manipulation are applied therapeutically.
Osteopaths study for 4 to 5 years on a degree course, this is similar to a medical degree with the emphasis on anatomy and musculoskeletal medicine. training includes anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, nutrition, bio-mechanics and more than 1000 hours of clinical training with patients.
Osteopaths must be registered with the General Osteopathic Council in order to practice and call themselves an Osteopath. Patients may be referred by their doctor, or may opt to see an Osteopath independently.