Osteopathy is a therapy system similar to Physiotherapy and Chiropractic and people often ask me what the difference is. In general Osteopaths spend most of their time doing hands on treatment. This includes massage, stretching and mobilisations of muscle, tendons, ligaments, fascia and joints. Osteopaths also do manipulations of joints (where you hear the popping sound). In general Physio’s spend more time advising and checking exercises and Chiropractors do more manipulations of joints (and less treatment of soft tissues).
So why Osteopathy? Well, its a system of diagnosis and treatment that in my experience is very effective in treating all manner of muscle and joint problems. The reason it is effective is that Osteopaths combine lots of hands on work with some exercise and postural advice. This is in my mind the quickest and best way to get rid of pain and back to normal function.
So, in short the reason to choose Osteopathy is that it is specialist, hands on, effective and holistic.
Osteopaths in the UK are regulated by The General Osteopathic Council (GOsC). A GOsC registered Osteopath has had to pass exams that ensure the public’s safety. Only Osteopaths that are registered with GOsC can legally practice Osteopathy in the UK.