What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a system of holistic healthcare created in the late 19th century by Andrew Taylor Still, an American who had grown skeptical of the medical treatments of the time - mercury was a popular choice back then! He dedicated himself to studying the anatomy and function of the body to find alternative ways to treat disease and promote health, and developed a philosophy of moving and stretching the body to optimise function, improve mobility and reduce pain.   

Today, osteopaths in the UK are considered musculoskeletal specialists. They undergo at least four years of training in anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology and more. They are qualified to diagnose and treat many types of conditions causing muscle, joint and nerve pain, as well as screen patients for more serious problems and refer them to the most appropriate healthcare professional. Student osteopaths spend at least 100 hours before graduation treating real life patients under the supervision of clinic tutors. All osteopaths are by law registered with the General Osteopathic Council, who ensure they adhere to strict standards, are fully insured and maintain a minimum of 30 hours per year of revision and further study. 

Osteopathy is a philosophy rather than a set of techniques - but commonly osteopaths will use a mixture of stretching of the joints and muscles, massage of the muscles, clicking of the joints or gentle techniques like cranial osteopathy. The aim of treatment is always to restore balance in the muscles, ligaments, tendons and fascia that support the skeleton, to ensure good blood supply and drainage so your joints can get the nutrition needed to heal, and support you in feeling confident in movement and every day life.