Osteo means Structure
The word osteopathy came about because its founder (Andrew Taylor Still) wanted to convey that many health problems arise when the body isn’t functioning properly due to problems with the structure (the osteo bit of osteopathy).
For example, tension headaches can arise if the greater occipital nerve is compressed through tight muscles at the base of the skull; or, someone might develop pins and needles in their fingers if the nerves to the arm are irritated as they pass in between the scalene muscles at the front of the neck.
Osteopathy is all about assisting the body to function better using gentle, safe techniques. We often suggest patients do certain stretches that will assist with the healing process.
Your Questions Answered
This is difficult to say. Some people just need a little help, one or two sessions, whereas other people with chronic conditions may benefit from ongoing regular treatment. A lot of people choose to see an osteopath on a regular basis as a way of preventing aches and pains from deteriorating.
Osteopathy is known for being safe, gentle but effective in its approach. Some people do experience soreness for 24-48 hours after a treatment; this is a normal response.
Please wear whatever makes you feel comfortable and relaxed. This is the most important thing. You may be asked to remove your outer clothing so that a full examination can be made – however, if you would rather not do this, it is not a problem.
Yes, the British Medical Association’s guidance is that GPs can safely refer patients to osteopaths, and many do in my experience.
The title “osteopath” is protected in law, which means that each osteopath must have met certain educational standards and keep up to date in their clinical practice. My registration number is 7081 with the General Osteopathic Council, the governing body.
The essence of osteopathy is to reduce people’s pain and improve their function through the skilled application of the osteopath’s hands. Osteopaths are taught how to use their hands to diagnose problems with the human body, and to use various techniques to assist the body back to health. Each person is different, so what is appropriate for one person may not be suitable for another person. To train as an osteopath takes a minimum of 4 years full-time, so you can rest assured that you are in safe hands. Being a safe practitioner is one of the foundations of an osteopath’s training i.e. how to avoid making an injury/condition worse, and knowing when to refer the person to their GP.
Sutton Osteopathy is approved by all the major health insurance companies including
AXA-PPP Healthcare
Bupa
Aviva
Vitality Health
“Nature does not jump from the abnormal back to the normal. Step by step she retraces herself; that is why it takes time for the chronic cases to recover. See that you patients understand this.”