Osteopathy is a system of diagnosis and treatment suitable for a broad range of individuals and medical conditions. Osteopathic care is delivered through a range of interventions which include manual therapy, exercise therapy, health management advice and if necessary appropriate onward referral. Most people consider osteopaths as ‘back specialists’, however they treat all areas of the body from feet and knees to shoulders and elbows, even the jaw – TMJ.

It can be used for treating Musculoskeletal aches and disorders i.e. muscles, ligaments, bones and joint dysfunctions. Areas of the body that can be treated include:

• Neck, Back & Pelvis
• Headaches (cervicogenic), Migraine prevention, Digestive problems
• Hips, Knees & Feet
• Shoulder and Arm ( i.e. problems arising from associated musculoskeletal conditions of the back and neck)
• Calf & Hamstring pain

Osteopathy can also be used to treat:

• Activity related pain for minor injuries e.g. dance specific, sport specific, occupational
• Assisting in maximising full potential in performance i.e. helping rectify biomechanical restrictions to improve speed, co-ordination and balance
• Improving Posture and General mobility (range of movement)

Osteopathic treatment works with the structure and function of the body, and is based on the principle that the wellbeing of an individual depends on the skeleton, muscles, ligaments and connective tissues functioning smoothly together.

Osteopaths work to restore your body to a state of balance, where possible without the use of medication or surgery. By using a wide range of techniques including massage, joint mobilisation, physical manipulation, acupuncture, and stretching, this breadth of approach allows them to focus on every patient’s precise needs.

Treatment aims to increase the mobility of joints, relieve muscle tension, enhance the blood and nerve supply to tissues, and to help your body’s own healing mechanisms by carefully listening and observing the needs of the individual. Osteopaths may also provide advice on posture and exercise to aid recovery, promote health and prevent symptoms recurring.

Osteopathy is a natural and safe way of treatment that relieves the symptoms of discomfort whilst seeking to identify the cause. Following treatment sometimes you may experience mild discomfort from a technique applied. If this is likely to occur, it will be discussed with you prior to carrying out the technique and you can decline. Should you experience any persistent discomfort longer than expected or you have any further questions please email info@nickyellis.org

For further information about osteopathy and what to expect watch this short animation.

To understand more about the differences between an Osteopath, Physiotherapist and Chiropractor please click on this link brief guide.