Osteopathy is a primary care profession, focusing on the diagnosis, treatment, prevention and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal disorders, and the effects of these conditions on patients' general health.

Using many of the diagnostic procedures applied in conventional medical assessment, osteopaths seek to restore the optimal functioning of the body, where possible without the use of drugs or surgery.   Osteopathy is based on the principle that the body has the ability to heal, and osteopathic care focuses on strengthening the musculoskeletal systems to treat existing conditions and to prevent illness. 

Osteopaths' patient-centered approach to health and well-being means they consider symptoms in the context of the patient's full medical history, as well as their lifestyle and personal circumstances.   This holistic approach ensures that all treatment is tailored to the individual patient.

At the first consultation, the osteopath will compile a full case history of your symptoms, as well as asking for information about your lifestyle and diet.   The osteopath may also observe you making some simple movements to help them make a diagnosis.   You will usually be asked to remove some clothing near the area of the body to be examined.

Osteopaths are trained to examine areas of the body using a highly-developed sense of touch, known as palpation, to determine conditions and identify the body's points of weakness or excessive strain.   Osteopathy is a 'package' of care that includes skilled mobilising and manipulative techniques, reinforced by guidance on diet and exercise. 

The osteopath will discuss with you the most appropriate treatment plan, estimating the likely number of sessions needed to treat your condition effectively.   If the osteopath thinks that your condition is unlikely to respond to osteopathic treatment, you will be advised about how to seek further care.   Osteopaths are skilled in diagnostic techniques and trained to identify when a patient needs to be referred to a GP. 

When young, the body adapts easily to the stress and strain it is put under.   As it grows older it begins to lose some of the elasticity which gives the body the flexibility to cope and adapt.

In particular this applies to the discs between the vertebrae and the joint cartilage.  These require regular movement to ensure their maximum range and thereby increase local circulation and nutrition to the surrounding tissues which slows down the degeneration process.

As the muscles lose compliance, they are more prone to injury and stiffness, unless they are regularly stretched, and local strains treated to ensure speedy healing.

As the efficiency of the muscles and joints becomes compromised over time, more effort is required to move or to sit upright at a desk – even the breathing mechanics can be affected.   Any areas of injury are guarded by the muscles and compensated for elsewhere in the body.   All of which takes energy.

The water content in our muscles and connective tissues becomes depleted over time, so functioning can be helped by keeping hydrated.   As well as drinking plenty of water, regular stretching, and gentle daily exercise can encourage endorphins and a good night’s sleep, and therefore greater energy during the day.

The spine is one of the most important and specialised parts of the body.   Not only does it function to protect the delicate spinal cord, but it also allows for extreme flexibility and strength due to each vertebra articulating with the next, and forming a point of attachment for muscles, ribcage, shoulder/hip girdles and skull.

Nerves to all parts of the body branch out from the spinal cord carrying messages to and from the cord and the brain.   It’s no wonder that when something goes wrong with the spine we certainly know about it.   What is truly amazing, is that most of the time it performs all its functions so well!

If you have questions or are ready to book an appointment, don’t hesitate to contact us at www.AnnaStainerOsteopath.co.uk.  Our friendly team is here to guide you through the process and answer any queries you may have.  We look forward to helping you achieve your health goals.