Osteopathy is a whole-person approach to healthcare, meaning we consider your whole body and your life, not just your symptoms. Osteopathic treatment usually involves manual therapy (gentle hands-on techniques focussed on relieving pain, improving mobility or releasing tension) with exercises and advice designed to help you manage your symptoms, keep active and maintain good health. There are a wide range of hands-on techniques used, from the ‘click’ manipulations to very gentle techniques suitable for the youngest and oldest of patients, and your osteopath can discuss with you the best approach for your specific situation.
Osteopaths in the UK are regulated by law and required to be registered with the General Osteopathic Council to practise as well as holding insurance and meeting mandatory continuous professional development (CPD) to keep their knowledge and skills up to date.
Cranial osteopathy
Cranial osteopathic techniques are at the gentle end of the spectrum of hands-on osteopathic care, and are probably best known for being used in the treatment of babies and small children where light touch is particularly suitable. However they can be effective for any age and are particularly useful in conditions where the body is quite sensitive to treatment, or the issues are long-standing – for example chronic pain, migraine or hypermobility-related issues. Most people feel a sense of relaxation and comfort during sessions which has often been missing for some time!