Osteopathy is a "whole body" system of manual therapy, based on unique biomechanical principles, which uses a wide range of techniques to treat musculo-skeletal problems , and other functional disorders of the body. It was developed in America in the 1870’s by a Missouri Doctor, Andrew Taylor Still.
Osteopaths are primary care practitioners, and are trained to be able to recognise conditions which require medical referral. They are also trained to carry out standard medical examinations of the cardiovascular, respiratory and nervous system.
Osteopathy treats a wide variety of musculo-skeletal problems .It also has a role to play in the management of a number of other conditions. The most common complaints for which patients consult Osteopaths include:
- back and neck pain,
- sciatica,
- headaches,
- pains in peripheral joints such as shoulders, knees and ankles, tendonitis and muscle strains,
- work-related and repetitive strain injuries, and
- sports-related injuries.
