About Osteopathy

Every working day approximately 30,000 people consult osteopaths.

By definition Osteopathy is a system of diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of medical conditions. Osteopathy works with the structure and function of the body, and is based on the principle that the well-being of an individual depends on the skeleton, muscles, ligaments and connective tissues functioning smoothly together. For your body to work well, its structure must also work well.

Osteopaths work to restore your body to a state of balance, using touch, physical manipulation, stretching and massage to increase the mobility of joints, to relieve muscle tension, to enhance the blood and nerve supply to tissues, and to help your body’s own healing mechanisms. Osteopaths may also provide advice on posture and exercise to aid recovery, promote health and prevent symptoms recurring.

Osteopaths train for 4 years full time and are required to undertake regular professional development.

The profession is governed by the General Osteopathic Council: www.osteopathy.org.uk.