What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a "whole body" system of manual therapy, aimed at restoring an individual’s natural ability to heal, by using a combination of biomechanical correction, lifestyle improvements, and healthy nutrition. 

Osteopathy began in the 1870’s in America by a Doctor named Andrew Taylor Still.  Since then osteopathy has progressed to the point where it is now widely recognised throughout the world as a scientifically validated and effective form of "complementary" therapy.

Osteopaths view the way the human body operates in much the same way as a machine operates, with all parts interrelated, and with structure and function being closely related. As with machines, injury or disease to one part of the human body can cause problems elsewhere in the body.

Furthermore, Osteopaths believe that the human body has the ability to attain, and maintain, optimal health. An in-built repair system if you like which enables us to recover from disease and injury.

As with any system in the body, this in-built repair system functions best when the machine is operating soundly. Osteopaths use techniques that promote blood flow to help maintain optimal function of the internal organs.  This is turn promotes and maintains the body’s balanced production of natural chemicals.

As part of the holistic, or ‘whole person’, approach to optimal health, osteopaths also consider exercise programs, a healthy diet and nutrition, and emotional well being as important factors in your treatment, and will devise a plan according to your needs.