Osteopathy
Osteopathy was founded in the 1870s by Dr A T Still, who discovered that by treating patients with manual techniques he could affect the blood flow, lymphatic drainage and nerve supply to all parts of the body. In essence by providing good circulation the body is more than capable of healing itself.
In 1993 Osteopathy became the first complementary healthcare profession to gain statuary recognition with the passing of the Osteopaths Act 1993. This act is regulated by the General Osteopathic Council which ensures all osteopaths are registered and competent practitioners.
Osteopathy does not treat conditions – it treats patients. By balancing the body, symptoms will be alleviated. Osteopaths usually give advice on lifestyle to support treatment and reduce risk of further problems.
Osteopathy is rarely painful, the patient is treated using a range of techniques including articulation, soft tissue massage, manipulation and gentle cranial techniques. These are applied to specific body tissues within the context of the whole person. As techniques are individually applied we are able to tailor them to any age from new born babies to patients of advanced years.
Cranial osteopathy is a subtle form of osteopathy utilising the rhythmic motion of the nervous system to influence affected or injured areas of the body. Because of its gentle nature, this treatment is particularly applicable to babies and patients who are in acute pain.