What is Osteopathy?
Put very simply osteopathy is a mechanical system of medicine that views the body as a unit. Where movement is restricted this will result in changes in blood flow, nerve signal or mechanical forces which often result in pain. By freeing restrictions the body's mechanical balance is restored and the symptoms are reduced.
Osteopaths consider the body as a whole; quite often a problem will arise slowly without pain to eventually cause problems in a different part of the body. For example stiffness between the shoulders caused by driving may cause headaches or pain in the upper neck. To understand the cause of the problem we have to consider all the factors which have led the body to this state of dysfunction. This includes the previous history of trauma, the intensity and type of physical work or exercise undertaken as well as the individual's posture and emotional state.
Although Osteopathy is primarily a hands on therapy, there are often lifestyle issues which need to be adressed to help the injury recovery and prevent reoccurence. This is where the patient can learn to help themselves.