Osteopathy is essentially a non-invasive, drug-free manual therapy used for health improvement across all body systems. This is done through the manipulation and strengthening of the musculoskeletal framework.
An Oxford Osteopath focuses on the spine, muscles and joints. The aim of this type of treatment is to positively impact the nervous, lymphatic and circulatory systems of the body. The term ‘manual therapy’ means both the diagnosis and treatment are performed with the hands.
As a complementary therapy, osteopathy is used in combination with traditional treatments to enhance health. However, osteopaths are qualified as medical doctors as well. Their training is longer and more comprehensive than naturopaths and other such complementary therapists. They specialise in the area of osteopathy.
What Osteopathy Treats
Osteopathy is used to treat and provide relief for a vast variety of conditions, which include:
• Headaches
• Neuralgia
• Arthritis
• Sciatica, back pain and neck pain
• Ankle, foot, knee and hip pain
• Hand, elbow and shoulder pain
• Golfer’s and tennis elbow
• Postural problems caused by sports injury, pregnancy, driving, digestive issues or work strain
Additionally, an Oxford Osteopath can identify conditions that cannot be treated with osteopathy and refer individuals to other specialists.
What to Expect
The process begins with an osteopathy consultation, which involves the osteopath assessing the health of the patient to determine the type of treatment required during the sessions. He or she ask questions, listen carefully to the answers and take notes. Each session typically lasts for roughly 45 minutes.
It is the responsibility of patients to ensure the osteopathic physician they choose is accredited and is licensed and registered to practice. If not already on display, patients should make a request to see the documentation.
Referral
Primary care physicians can refer patients or the patients may refer themselves. The latter should notify their primary care doctor to ensure consistent, on-going care.
An Oxford osteopath can assist in preventing problems by identifying possible sources of referred pain in a timely manner. These medical professionals may recommend dietary changes and modifications to workplace ergonomics like desk position and seating.