When asked what they know about osteopathy, many people (if they know anything at all) associate it with the treatment of bad backs and maybe sore necks.

While this is accurate to a point – a lot of patients who come to us, come for these very reasons – it is just the tip of the osteopathic iceberg.

Osteopaths undergo thorough training, which takes at least 4 years. We are qualified to make diagnoses of musculoskeletal issues, as well as recognize more serious illness that may be causing physical discomfort. In these cases, we are trained to understand when it is appropriate to refer you to a GP, or even to A&E in emergency situations.

One of the key principles of osteopathy is the idea that the body, if working properly, is able to heal itself. The aim of osteopathic treatment, therefore, is to improve the function of the body, such that it is able to conduct the healing process.

This aim is achieved by identifying areas of the body that are restricted, and ‘freeing them up’. Techniques used to achieve this may include, among others, massage techniques, active stretching with patient cooperation, passive joint articulation, joint manipulation (the ‘clicking’ or ‘cracking’ that you may have heard about), and exercise programs. There is also a range of more subtle techniques that can be very effective too.

Osteopathic techniques are not limited to only treating backs and necks. Any stiff or tight joints and muscles can be eased with variations of these techniques, which means osteopaths can help with hand/wrist/elbow/shoulder problems, as well as with ankle/knee/hip issues. We are not limited to backs and necks!

Osteopathic treatment has been used to relieve some of the physical stresses of pregnancy and childbirth, both pre- and post-natal. Treatment may benefit people of all ages, from babies to the elderly, and of all activity levels, from elite athletes to those unable to exercise.

At The Malmesbury Clinic, our highly trained osteopaths are supported in clinic by two excellent sports massage therapists, a podiatrist and physiotherapists. Outside of the clinic we also have a network of fitness instructors, yoga classes, pilates and personal trainers. Our goal is to provide the best possible care for our patients so, if we feel that osteopathy is not the best option for you, or that you would benefit from additional help, we will not only refer you to the most appropriate option available, but stay in touch to ensure your complete satisfaction with your recovery.

If you are struggling with pain of any sort, new or old, mild or severe, why not give us a call or pop in to the clinic for a chat? You can book an appointment with one of our osteopaths, where we will discuss your situation with you, and give you an honest opinion as to whether we feel osteopathy may help, or whether we feel some other treatment, or even a visit to your GP, would be better. You are under no obligation to proceed with treatment with us, and will only be charged a small consultation fee if you choose not to proceed with treatment.

Stay tuned for more articles, written or sourced by our team at The Malmesbury Clinic, addressing the wide range of more specific issues that osteopathy, massage and podiatry have been found to help.

By Steve McMullen, M.Ost DO