Osteopathy help please.?

Question

what do you benefit from in osteopathy as many answers as possible please good or bad.... thankyou.x

Answer 1

Hi

Osteopathy is a system of medicine primarily concerned with the structure and function of the body, i.e. the bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, and connective tissues. It is essentially a natural therapy, which seeks to overcome the wide range of diseases resulting from the disturbances of the body's framework and moving parts. This treatment uses gentle spinal release techniques, joint mobilisations, soft tissue and neuro-muscular therapy.

What kinds of problems can osteopathy help with?

Whilst back pain is the most common problem seen, osteopathy can help with a wide variety of problems including changes to posture in pregnancy, repetitive strain injury, postural problems caused by driving or work strain, the pain of arthritis and sports injuries among many others. Leaflets explaining many of the common treatments used are available from the Osteopathic Information Service.

What can I expect when I visit an osteopath?

When you visit an osteopath for the first time a full case history will be taken and you will be given an examination. You will normally be asked to remove some of your clothing and to perform a simple series of movements. The osteopath will then use a highly developed sense of touch, called palpation, to identify any points of weakness or excessive strain throughout the body.

The osteopath may need additional investigations such as x-ray or blood tests. This will allow a full diagnosis and suitable treatment plan to be developed for you.

How much do treatments cost?

Treatments are approximately £50-£35 for 45-30 minute session. Often the first session is longer and may cost more.

How many treatments will I need?

Osteopathy is patient centred, which means treatment is geared to you as an individual. Your osteopath should be able to give you an indication after your first visit. For some acute pain one or two treatments may be all that is necessary. Chronic conditions may need ongoing maintenance. An average is 6 – 8 sessions.

Do I need a referral from my GP?

A formal referral from your GP is not necessary, the majority of osteopathic patients self-refer.

How does osteopathy work?

Osteopaths work with their hands using a wide variety of treatment techniques. 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 are widely used, particularly when treating children or elderly patients. This allows the body to return to efficient normal function.

How can I be sure I am in safe hands when visiting an osteopath?

A Registered Osteopath has demonstrated to the General Osteopathic Council via a detailed application process that they are a safe and competent practitioner, that they have adequate malpractice insurance and have agreed to abide by a Code of Practice.

I have noticed many osteopaths have the letters DO and/or BSc (Ost) after their names what does this mean?

These are osteopathic qualifications. The DO stands for diploma in osteopathy the BSc is a degree in osteopathy. The length of training is the same for both, at least four years full-time training. The diploma course has been around the longest but recently some courses have been validated by universities allowing them to offer their students degree passes.

Can I have osteopathic treatment on the NHS?

Most people consult an osteopath privately. Telephone local practices to find out about fees in your area. An increasing number of osteopaths work with GP practices so that it may be possible for your doctor to refer you to an osteopath on the NHS.

Can I have osteopathy on my private medical insurance?

Many private health insurance schemes give benefit for osteopathic treatment. Some companies will reimburse the total fee or pay a percentage of the costs. Contact the helpline of your insurance company who will explain the actual benefits and methods of claim for your individual policy.