Osteopaths are best known for treating problems related to the spine, though the scope of practice is much wider than this. The majority of our patients consult us with low back or neck pains, which may be due to strains or tears in some of the muscles or ligaments which support and move the spine, or to injuries affecting the intervertebral discs which separate each spinal bone. These disc injuries may in turn lead to compression of the spinal nerves causing the familiar Sciatica or Brachial Neuritis.

 Because of the complexity of the small nerves and blood vessels associated with the spinal cord, many other systems of the body may become disrupted, especially when there are long term postural or repetitive strains present. Injuries and problems with the limbs also fall within the osteopath's remit.

The osteopath will take a detailed case history of your current complaint and past medical history at the first consultation. You will then be examined physically, which usually means undressing to your underwear, so that your total structure, as well as the specific complaint may be observed.  You will then be advised whether osteopathy can help you, and given an indication of the likely time span.

Treatment usually consists of gentle stretching and manipulation of the various joints and muscles of the body. Sometimes a more forcible "High Velocity Thrust" may be employed to free off stiffer joints of the body, but this is always explained beforehand, and only carried out with consent. You may be given exercises, or advised on exercise classes to help your recovery, and in some cases you may be advised to return for a more regular treatment session to maintain your progress.

If your condition is of such a nature as to require further investigation, you will be referred back to your GP or a specialist, or for tests such as MRI scanning as appropriate