Osteopathy: Frequently Asked Questions
What is Osteopathy?
Osteopathy is an essentially natural therapy, that seeks to solve a wide range of problems which result from imbalances in the body's structure and the parts involved in movement; the muscles, joints, ligaments, bones, etc. Instead of treating symptoms, osteopathy seeks to remove the causative factors that can disturb the organism's natural ability to heal itself. ...
Source: www.londonosteopath.co.uk
It is medicine, or more accurately, the art and science of manual treatment whose aim is to reposition the bones, muscles, organs, viscera, glands, i.e., to give them the freedom to function better. A.T. Still, the founder of osteopathy once said, "Structure governs function", which means whenever a part of the body is free to move, it can function correctly.
Source: www.guyvoyer.com
Osteopathy is a form of manual therapy that has been around for over a century that aims at sensing and reestablishing mobility and balance through all the different parts of the body. It is a very gentle but deep approach that looks at the root cause of a problem, rather than simply treating the symptoms.
Source: www.corebasics.com
The maintenance of good mechanical function is essential to good health. Problems in the framework of the body can disturb the circulatory system or nerves to any part of the body, and affect any aspect of health. Thus mechanical problems can lead not only to aches and pains in joints and muscles, but also to disturbances in the internal organs and the way they work. Osteopaths work to restore the musculoskeletal system of the body to a state of balance and harmony.
Source: www.oldhallclinic.co.uk
Osteopathy is an established recognized system of diagnosis and treatment, which lays its main emphasis on the structural and functional integrity of the body. It is distinctive by the fact that it recognizes that much of the pain and disability, which we suffer stems from abnormalities in the function of the body structure as well as damage caused to it by disease. Read more...
Source: www.globalspine.net
Is Osteopathy Regulated?
Osteopathy is regulated by the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC), who maintain a register of practitioners. Only practitioners on the register may practice as an osteopath, thereby maintaining standards and ensuring safety of the public. The GOsC validate Osteopathic schools by granting 'Recognised Qualification' (RQ) status to schools who achieve the required standard. The College of Osteopaths has successfully achieved 'RQ' status, and clinic tutors at the teaching clinic are all registered osteopaths.
Source: www.collegeofosteopaths.ac.uk
The osteopathic profession, in the UK is governed by The General Osteopathic Council (GOsC). Since 2000, the title "osteopath" has been protected by law. This means that it is a criminal offence to describe oneself as an osteopath unless registered with the GOsC. Only practitioners meeting the GOsC's high standards of competence and safety are eligible to join the register, and they must also provide evidence of good health, good character and professional indemnity insurance cover. ...
Source: www.eso.ac.uk
Is Osteopathy painful?
Examination and treatment may involve contacting the site of pain, this inevitably may cause some discomfort. The actual treatment should be a therapeutic experience and pain is rarely a complaint. On occasion after a treatment some soreness may persist for a maximum of 24-48 hours, though at the end of each treatment your practitioner will advice you how to decrease the likeliness of this event. ...
Source: www.gettreated.co.uk
Is osteopathy safe?
A Osteopathic treatment is very safe. When people ask this question - they usually have manipulation in mind. There have been several studies to show that a series of neck manipulations is actually safer than taking a course of non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAID's) over the same period. Yes, these are the aspirin/Ibuprofen based variety that you can buy over the counter in the corner shop. So compared to the drug alternatives that only treat the symptoms it is extremely safe! ...
Source: fp.osteopath.plus.com
A Osteopathic treatment is very safe. When people ask this question - they usually have manipulation in mind. There have been several studies to show that a series of neck manipulations is actually safer than taking a course of non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAID's) over the same period. Yes, these are the aspirin/Ibuprofen based variety that you can buy over the counter in the corner shop. So compared to the drug alternatives that only treat the symptoms it is extremely safe! ...
Source: www.holistic-centre.org
What is Cranial Osteopathy ?
Cranial Osteopathy ( or as it is sometimes called " Craniosacral Osteopathy" ) is a very gentle, yet extremely powerful, system of osteopathic medicine which uses the patient's " Cranial Rhythm" ( also known as the " Primary Respiratory or Involuntary Mechanism" ) for evaluation and treatment.
Source: www.philparker.org
G. Sutherland discovered the intrinsic movements of the cranial membranes, proving there were micro-movements of the cranial bones. The biomechanics of the hundreds of cranial articulations are coherent. The consequences on the sensory organs, cranial nerves and various parts of the brain are obvious. With this in mind, cranial work on babies and children whose cranial bones are still forming should be a priority. However, cranial osteopathy is only useful when it is part of osteopathic therapeutic methodology.
Source: www.guyvoyer.com
What are the origins of osteopathy?
The first Osteopathic medical school was established in 1874 by an MD named Dr. Still. Some twenty years before, three of his children died from meningitis. He was dissatisfied with the medical practices and thinking of his day. Through years of study, he came to the conclusion that people got better from disease, illness, and trauma when dysfunctions in their musculoskeletal system were corrected. He named this holistic approach to medical care Osteopathy.
Source: www.riosteopathy.com
Is cranial osteopathy safe?
Yes it is safe. Probably the most beneficial factors to the apprehensive 'new patient' is that treatment is so gentle it often has a soporific effect whilst tissues/tensions are relaxing. As a result of this, treatment conducted by an inexperienced practitioner becomes ineffective rather than unsafe.>
Source: www.oldhallclinic.co.uk
What is paediatric osteopathy?
Osteopaths who have undertaken a further two year's training and study, to specialise in treating babies and children, practise paediatric osteopathy. Just as a qualified doctor would train to be a paediatrician, ensuring a level of expertise appropriate to the patient, so those osteopaths who have undertaken this additional training are qualified to treat babies and children. On training and qualification, paediatric osteopaths receive their Diploma in Paediatric Osteopathy (DPO). ...
Source: www.occ.uk.com
What is Traditional Osteopathy?
It is a distinctive way to practice medicine. It uses all the best modalities in medicine and surgery, but prefers to use the body's natural healing first. The philosophy of A.T.Still, the founder of Osteopathy, plays a central part in patient care, "There is a unity of the body’s systems with the mind and spirit, so that a disease in one area can affect all areas. The body has an inherent ability to heal itself, and it has all it needs contained within it. ...
Source: www.dohealth.org
What is the initial cost for Osteopathy?
Initial treatment = $129.00
Subsequent treatments = $99.00 (treatment is 45 minutes, 25 minute remedial massage followed by a manipulation of the spine)
Source: complementaryhealth.com.au
How long is the treatment for Osteopathy?
Initial treatment for Osteopathy takes 1hr & 15 minutes. You will first need to fill in a form about your condition. This is followed by a 25 minute remedial massage from a qualified massage therapist and after your muscles are relaxed, the osteopath will manipulate your bones (much like cracking your knuckles, but on the spine and joints).
Source: complementaryhealth.com.au
IS OSTEOPATHY A REGULATED PROFESSION?
Yes. After undergoing a five year degree course of thorough clinical and practical study, osteopaths become registered with the General Osteopathic Council (www.osteopathy.org.uk) , who monitor and maintain high clinical and professional standards. They may be contacted on 0207 357 6655.
Source: monicafranke.com
Is Osteopathy effective with athletes?
Yes. With respect to maintenance in order to normalize a part of the body and help develop it in the way the sport requires. Yes. With respect to emergency therapy as in replacing an articular subluxation, for example.
Source: www.guyvoyer.com
Is Osteopathy always enough ?
Osteopathy is one element in a variety of therapies. An osteopath could never replace a dentist, surgeon, medical doctor or psychiatrist. Competent Osteopath DOs must recognize their limitations and direct patients to another therapist if necessary.
Source: www.guyvoyer.com
Is osteopathy recognized now?
Yes. Now that all osteopaths must be registered with the General Osteopathic Council, the profession is safety regulated. Osteopathy is recognized by all the major private healthcare companies – BUPA, PPP, WPA, Norwich Union etc. if your are making a claim for your treatment please tell us when you book your own appointment, as some companies require a GP referral. ...
Source: www.osteopathnewcastle.co.uk
Is Osteopathy Officially Recognised?
Yes, Osteopathy enjoys full State recognition and from the 8th of May 2000 it became illegal to practise as an osteopath unless properly trained and registered with the General Osteopathic Council. All osteopaths in this practice meet these criteria. Most reputable medical insurance companies will now cover osteopathic treatment.
Source: www.petersadler.net
It is officially recognised in the UK, where it is regulated by the General Osteopathic Council . In Spain it is not recognised or regulated, although osteopaths may practise freely. There are a number of voluntary registers which afford self-regulation of their members, such as the Registro de los Osteopatas de España .
Source: en.osteopatica.net
IS OSTEOPATHY ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE?
A recent parliamentary report described Osteopathy as "a distinct system of manual medicine in its own right". It is illegal to practice as an Osteopath unless properly trained and registered with the General osteopathic Council.
Source: www.clayhallosteopaths.com
How does osteopathy work?
Osteopaths work with their hands using a wide variety of treatment techniques which allow the body to return to efficient normal function. These may include soft tissue techniques, rhythmic passive joint mobilisation or the high velocity thrust techniques designed to improve mobility and the range of movement of a joint. Gentle release techniques can also be used, particularly when treating children or elderly patients.
Source: www.integralhealthclinic.com
Does osteopathy hurt ?
Treatment is usually pain free, and the gentlest appropriate technique is always used. However there may be some transient aching (most usually after the first treatment) as the body settles into its rebalanced state.
Source: brightonandhoveosteopath.co.uk
What is the role of osteopathy?
Visceral osteopathy is for a great deal one of the pillars of Etiopsychologie®. It allows for the reduction of organic depressions and restores basic movements of intestines and organs.
Source: www.etiopsychologie.com
What is a Doctor of Osteopathy?
These doctors are fully trained in the scope of medicine including emphasis on treating musculo-skeletal disorders. They perform surgery and treat medical disorders in the same manner as M.D.s. D.O.s can also relieve painful musculo-skeletal problems with manipulation and massage.
Source: www.medscape.com
Is osteopathy available on the NHS?
Yes, it is in some areas. You'll need to ask your GP about this, but please bear in mind that there are some GP's that are still sceptical about osteopathy and they may not be fully aware of the wide range of conditions that osteopathy could help with. You could always ring a local osteopath and ask if they are aware of any local provision for osteopathy on the NHS.
Source: fp.osteopath.plus.com
