Osteopaths use a wide range of techniques including soft tissue work (stretching and massage); mobilisation (rhythmic joint movement), pressure, cranial work and manipulation. The use of manipulation is tailored to the individual and their complaint and Osteopaths sometimes avoid manipulation altogether - for example when treating children.The aim of treatment is to correct the imbalances in the musculoskeletal system.By doing this the Osteopath can often provide immediate and long term relief from pain.The most common problems treated by Osteopaths are neck and back pain. However as body functions are closely related to the musculosleletal structure, Osteopaths also treat a wide range of other ailments including headaches, asthma, respiratory disorders, digestive, gynaecological dysfunction and chronic fatigue.
Some Osteopaths practise a technique known as 'Osteopathy in the cranial field'. These Practitioners use gentle techniques (often on the bones of the skull) which can correct certain dysfunctions in the body.For acute conditions one or two treatments are often sufficient. For long term chronic conditions you may need more regular treatments over of longer period of time.
