Osteopathy

Osteopathy is a way of detecting, treating and preventing health problems by moving, stretching and massaging a person's muscles and joints.

Osteopathy is based on the principle that the wellbeing of an individual depends on their bones, muscles, ligaments and connective tissue functioning smoothly together.

Osteopaths use physical manipulation, stretching and massage with the aim of:

• increasing the mobility of joints
• relieving muscle tension
• reducing pain
• enhancing the blood supply to tissues
• helping the body to heal

They use a range of techniques, but not drugs or surgery.

When Osteopathy is used

Most people who see an osteopath do so for help with conditions that affect the muscles, bones and joints, such as:

• lower back pain
• uncomplicated neck pain (as opposed to neck pain after an injury such as whiplash)
• shoulder pain and elbow pain (for example, tennis elbow)
• arthritis
• problems with the pelvis, hips and legs
• sports injuries
• muscle and joint pain associated with driving, work or pregnancy

For further information please visit Osteopathy - NHS (www.nhs.uk)