What sort of conditions and problems do osteopaths treat?

Although osteopaths are best known for treating neck & back pain and yes spinal problems are the mainstay of most osteopathic practices, but many will be surprised by the range of problems that we may well be able to help with.
Pain, unless it's from a recent injury, is often a late indicator that there is a problem and the earlier a problem is caught, then the greater the chances of a full recovery.

A few examples of the problems that people seek osteopathy for:

• Arthritic Pain - The pain of osteoarthritis or common arthritis affects most of us sooner or later.

• Joint pain in general - whether it be tennis or golfer's elbow, frozen shoulder, RSI (repetitive strain injury) of  the wrist, sprained ankle, foot problems (i.e. heel spur, fallen arches), or knee pain, hip or S.I. (sacroiliac) joint pain.

• Headaches - many headaches have their origin in the upper neck & are officially called cervicogenic head pain and the neck itself may not be painful. Other 'hidden' upper neck problems may also contribute to disturbance of balance, vertigo, jaw problems, earache/ pain, scalp tenderness or numbness, sinus pain (commonly confused with sinusitis), brain fog - the inability to focus or think clearly, etc.

By treating the structural and mechanical problems of the body pain can be relieved, the risk of wear and tear reduced and general health restored. Osteopathy can address conditions caused by injury, sporting activities and long-term postural or occupational stress, as well as symptoms in babies.

Half suffer low back trouble
Most back pains result from mechanical disturbances of the spine - postural strains, joint derangement and spinal disc injuries. Osteopathy, with its comprehensive approach to health care, is a particularly successful approach to treatment.

Over half are women

Many women are working mothers and both aspects of their lives can give rise to problems, from the perennial headache to severe musculo-skeletal disorders.

Many headaches originate from stiffness and tension in the neck and osteopathic treatment can often bring relief. Pregnancy can put a strain on the low back and osteopathic treatment can help the body to adjust.

A quarter are in their forties

Many patients are losing fitness at this stage in their lives and are more prone to injury. Osteopaths consider all the factors, examining posture and the strength and flexibility of muscles, ligaments and tendons. Treatment is designed to alleviate current problems and to help prevent recurrences.

Many are elderly

Painkillers are not the only solution for the aches and pains associated with ageing. For more permanent relief it is necessary to eliminate the underlying causes of pain. Osteopathy can also help in reducing pain and stiffness in the less acute stages of arthritis.

Many problems relate to work

Work, whether it be at a computer terminal or in heavy industry, can give rise to disorders of the muscles, tendons and joints, particularly in the back, hands and arms. The most common work related condition is repetitive strain injury (RSI). Osteopaths treat many conditions relating to the workplace and can give remedial advice and preventative exercise.

Sports Injuries

Most of us have suffered, at sometime or another, various sporting injuries, whether on the track, road, on  the court, in the gym or on ski slopes. These injuries are usually minor in the form of  sprains and strains or occasionally more serious like fractures. Osteopathy aids recovery from these injuries, allowing people to get back to normal more quickly.

Some of the conditions/symptoms we treat

Aches and pains

Arthritic pain

Asthma

Back pain

Constipation

Cramp

Digestion problems

Frozen shoulder

Headaches

Irritable bowel syndrome

Joint pains

Local circulatory problems

Menstrual pain

Sports injuries

Muscle spasms

Muscle tension

Neck pain

Neuralgia

Rheumatic pain

RSI

Sciatica

Tension

And many more…