Osteopathy

Osteopathy is the study of normal function and alignment of the many joints and muscles in the body. Our skill of palpation helps us to detect many misalignments and malfunction of the joints and tissues and by applying gentle techniques, correct these problems where possible.

The practice of Osteopathy focuses on structural elements of the body, including bones, joints and muscles. Our bodies are made up of bones which are joined to their adjacent neighbours by joints. These joints normally have a strong cartilaginous bearing surface, with ligaments surrounding the joints to hold them together and increase the joint strength. Muscles also add additional support and strength to the overall joint structure.

The skeleton is a mass of levers, hinges and pulleys (bones, joints and muscles) to provide us with the movements and locomotion we take for granted every day. To work efficiently, the skeleton like any machine, needs to be in good alignment. The delicate joints in the body can often become slightly out of position, resulting in 'joint misalignment' and can cause discomfort and pain.

Misalignment

Misalginment and impaired function within the skeletal structure may occur as a result of many different incidents, including accident, fall, sprain, repetitive sport injuries, poor posture, occupational posture, pregnancy or emotional stress.

Misalignment within the skeletal structure, especially the spine (which has many small joints), may lead to undue tissue stresses in the joints and muscles, resulting in some dysfunction. Undue tissue stress may also cause inflammation and weakness within the joint and ultimately some painful symptoms. Symptoms may develop insidiously and intermittently over several years, resulting in the current painful episodes. The misalignments need only be very slight to be the root cause of symptoms and may take several years to become symptomatic.

Current pain is often the result of a recent minor strain or injury, which is 'the last straw', on what has been a progressively weakened and stressed area, due to a long-standing misalignment.

Symptoms

Constant stress on joints may cause arthritis, inflammation and stiffness = PAIN.

Constant stress on muscles may cause spasms, fibrositis, contracture and tendonitis = PAIN.

Constant stress on spinal joints may cause joint weakness and worn or slipped discs. Joint and disc weakness may become inflammed and irritate the spinal nerves causing neuritis, sciatica and trapped nerves = PAIN.