Osteopathic Information
Osteopathy
Osteopaths believe that if every part of the body can move and function normally then the individual will have the best possible chance to maintain good health.
Osteopathic techniques are based on the detailed study of anatomy. In particular the systems of joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments which make up the musculoskeletal system.
Manipulation may be defined simply as the art and practice of moving the joints of the body for therapeutic purposes. Every movable joint should have a range of smooth and unrestricted movement. Qualified osteopaths are trained to assess which conditions will be helped by manipulation and which would be best helped in other ways. See About Osteopathy for further information.
Visceral Osteopathy
As people age they bend forwards rather than backwards. This is an indication of how much tension is stored in the front of the body.
Visceral Osteopathy aims to release tightness in the tissues of the abdomen and chest to allow the organs such as the gut, stomach, lungs and heart to function more easily, relieving many of the symptoms that doctors say we "just have to live with". Many chronic back and neck problems can be helped by visceral osteopathic treatment.
Cranial Osteopathy
Craniosacral Therapy (also called Cranial Osteopathy) is an extremely gentle therapy that can be used in acutely painful or delicate conditions on individuals of any age. It works on a very profound and subtle level, influencing the central nervous system and penetrating to deep-rooted causes.
Craniosacral Therapy is a comprehensive holistic therapy which can effectively treat a whole range of conditions from physical injuries and functional disorders (digestive, menstrual, nervous etc) to emotional disturbances and persistent symptoms of obscure origin. It is also very effective in promoting general improvement in health and energy, balancing and integrating the whole person on many levels, and re-integrating following illness, accident or injury.
Acupuncture
Medical acupuncture is a powerful adjunct to Osteopathic treatment. Very fine needles are used to rapidly and painlessly release muscle spasm or deactivate painful trigger points. Sometimes acupuncture is all that is needed for a cure. At other times it is a very effective way to prepare for osteopathic manipulation. |