Osteopathy Frequently Asked Questions

Osteopathy Frequently Asked Questions

12th June 2019 01:54 PM

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Here at The Bridge Centre we regularly get enquiries from people suffering with pain, be it in their back, shoulders, arms or legs  - anywhere really! Often in these cases we may recommend Osteopathy as it’s a great all-around treatment for joints, muscles and ligaments.

To help you find out a little bit more about Osteopathy we’ve put together an FAQ:

What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a holistic manual therapy mostly used for clients with spinal pain and joint pains such as shoulders, knees, and hips.

The General Osteopathic Council defines Osteopathy as ‘a system of diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of medical conditions. It works with the structure and function of the body, and is based on the principle that the well-being of an individual depends on the skeleton, muscles, ligaments and connective tissues functioning smoothly together.’

What’s the difference between an Osteopath and a Chiropractor?

This is a question we often get asked when someone is suffering with back pain. An Osteopath will look at the whole body and treat a wide range of issues, using a combination of muscle and soft tissue work, along with manipulation of joints to bring balance to the structure of the body, helping relieve pain and improve movement.  Osteopaths also look at rehabilitation, and will advise on exercises, lifestyle adjustments, working practices, fitness etc.

A Chiropractor will typically focus on spinal alignment to relieve pain, and primarily perform vertebrae adjustments.

Will my back be ‘cracked’?

Joint manipulation is what causes the infamous clicking sound that people associate with back treatment. If appropriate, your practitioner may want to use joint manipulation as part of your treatment, this is usually painless and it’s believed that the noise may be caused by gas bubbles surrounding a joint! Osteopathic treatment without joint cracking is equally effective.

What can I expect from my first appointment?

Your first appointment with an Osteopath will begin with a case history, which will lead onto appropriate tests, including neurological and orthopedic screening tests. During this appointment your practitioner will ask questions about your complaint, your medical history, and any lifestyle factors which may be relevant. Once a working diagnosis and treatment plan has been established, which the osteopath will explain to you, treatment will commence.

Can I see an Osteopath if I am pregnant?

Yes - however please let reception know if you are pregnant, or think you may be pregnant when booking. You will also need to let your Osteopath know so that they can use appropriate techniques. Osteopaths will avoid treating at around 12 weeks of pregnancy (at the end of the 1st trimester).

What may Osteopathy help with?

Osteopathy is a great all-around treatment that may help with a wide range of conditions, including:

• Back and neck pain
• Sciatica
• Shoulder pain
• Headaches
• Muscle and ligament strains
• Pregnancy related pains
• Hip and knee pain
• Wrist pain
• Jaw tension

 

For questions not answered above, or to find out more about Osteopathy, give the Bridge Centre team a call on 01332 521 270.

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Treatments: Osteopathy

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The views expressed in these blogs are those of the blog authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Bridge Centre for Natural Health.