Osteopathy is a system of treatment that
concentrates on the Musculoskeletal system, bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments,
nerves and connective tissues of the body and the way that this interacts and
effects the body as a whole. It is based on the philosophies and teachings of
A.T. Still, the founder of Osteopathy in C19th, however due to regulation it has
become more medical based and is now a primary health care profession.
Osteopaths and physiotherapists are the group of practitioner who treat
musculoskeletal disorders.
Osteopaths are monitored and regulated by the General
Osteopathic council and must provide treatment in accordance with set guidelines
established by this institution.
Osteopaths have to complete a four – five year degree
graduating with a Masters in Osteopathy. Whilst at College they are taught a
high level of understanding in pathology, physiology, clinical diagnosis,
biochemistry, nutrition to name but a few.
Osteopathy has become synonymous with the
treatment of spinal pain. In reality osteopathy can also help treat joint pain,
sports injury, headaches, occupational injury, arthritic pain to name but a few.
It is suitable for people of all ages.
The effectiveness of osteopathy is a little-researched;
however, the general consensus amongst healthcare professionals is that
osteopathy is a valuable preventive measure as well as a proven means of
reducing pain and improving posture; in turn, these benefits impact positively
upon other areas and systems of the body, creating a better standard of general
health.
The British Medical Association’s guidance for general
practitioners states that doctors can safely refer patients to osteopaths.
Osteopaths very often work along side physiotherapist and
other medical practitioner, like orthopaedic surgeons and Doctors.
