Osteopathy is a safe and effective form of prevention, diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of health issues. An Osteopath is a highly trained healthcare professional who specialises in the musculoskeletal system. This includes joints, muscles and the tissues that support them. Osteopaths also understand how these systems work with the rest of the body to maintain overall health.
Osteopaths treat people of all ages, including:
You do not need to see your GP before visiting an osteopath, although some patients choose to discuss their symptoms with their doctor first.
Osteopaths are trained to diagnose a wide range of musculoskeletal problems and recognise when further investigation may be required.
During your first appointment, the osteopath will ask about:
All information is treated as confidential in line with the standards set by the General Osteopathic Council and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
It is normal to feel concerned about your symptoms and their possible causes. Your osteopath will carry out a thorough examination to rule out more serious conditions and will discuss any further steps if needed.
After the assessment, your osteopath will explain your treatment options. Together you will agree on a suitable treatment plan and discuss any associated costs.
Your treatment plan may involve several appointments. Occasionally, further tests or referrals to another healthcare professional may be recommended.
Treatment may begin during your first visit. Some people experience mild discomfort afterwards, but this usually settles within 24 hours.
If you have any concerns about your treatment, you are encouraged to discuss them with your osteopath.
You are also welcome to bring someone with you to your appointment if you wish.
As part of your consultation, your osteopath will examine the area of your body causing discomfort.
They may also perform simple medical tests, such as checking your blood pressure or testing your reflexes.
In some cases, you may be asked to remove certain items of clothing so the osteopath can properly assess the affected areas.
If you would prefer not to undress to your underwear, you can bring clothing such as:
These allow the osteopath to examine movement and posture while keeping you comfortable.
Your osteopath will feel for changes in muscles and joints and assess how your body moves. They may also look at your posture and general movement patterns.
Sometimes the cause of pain is located in a different area from where you feel it. For this reason, the osteopath may assess several areas of your body.
Depending on your symptoms, the osteopath may recommend further tests such as scans or blood tests. They may also suggest that you consult your GP or another healthcare professional if appropriate.
Osteopathic treatment is tailored to the individual patient. Your treatment will depend on factors such as your age, general health, activity level and diagnosis.
Osteopaths use a range of hands-on techniques that may include:
These techniques aim to release tension, improve mobility and support recovery.
Your osteopath may also provide advice to help you manage your condition and maintain good health.
Research has shown that manual therapy, including osteopathic treatment, can help with musculoskeletal problems such as back pain and can support a return to normal movement and activity.
The risks associated with osteopathic treatment are very low. If you have concerns about your treatment, you should discuss them with your osteopath.
In the UK, osteopaths are regulated by the General Osteopathic Council. By law, anyone practising as an osteopath must be registered with this regulatory body.
Registered osteopaths must meet strict professional standards and complete ongoing professional development to maintain their registration.
Osteopaths train to degree level and qualify with either:
Training takes a minimum of four years and includes over 1000 hours of supervised clinical practice with patients.
Osteopaths are recognised by NHS England as Allied Health Professionals and play an important role in the diagnosis, treatment and care of people with musculoskeletal conditions.
Many osteopaths are also members of the Institute of Osteopathy, the professional membership organisation for the profession. The organisation supports osteopaths and promotes high standards of patient care.
We are members of the Institute of Osteopathy, the professional membership organisation for osteopaths, committed to the support and development of the osteopathic profession.
Membership of the Institute of Osteopathy affords assurances to the public, patients and colleagues, that we provide the highest quality service and care, exceeding the minimum requirements of professional regulation.
For more information on the Institute of Osteopathy, visit www.iOsteopathy.org or call 01582 488455
**All information was directly quoted from the Institute of Osteopathy https://www.iosteopathy.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/AboutOsteopathy-6pp-Aug-2018.pdf and includes references from www.nice.org.uk/guidance/NG59 **
