Intro

Osteopathy being a Holistic approach to health, means that the focus is on the individual & their circumstance, rather than a particular ‘named condition’. However to answer this question, without individual assessment, it is easier to talk in these general terms.

Back & Neck Pain

Osteopathy is a particularly successful approach to treatment of spinal pain. Most commonly in the low back and neck, but often these can refer pain to the lower and upper limbs respectively. Similarly, stiffness/pain originating in the limbs, such as arthritic, injury (i.e. 'whiplash') or repetitive strain (RSI) conditions may also be helped.

Headaches

Many headaches, sometimes inappropriately diagnosed as migraines, originate from stiffness/tension in the joints of the upper neck and treatment often brings relief.

It is about trying to get to & treat the underlying cause, rather than the symptom! In this case pain that the brain perceives to being in the head.

Pregnancy

Osteopathic treatment can help to reduce the additional stresses and strains associated with pregnancy by helping the body adapt to the changes involved. 

The extra weight at the front tends to pull the lumbar spine forward, which can irritate the small facet joints at the back of the spine. Once aggravated they tend to lock together, causing further pain, muscle spasm & sometimes radiating pain around the waist, into pelvis, buttock or leg.

Kids & Cranial Osteopathy

Cranio-Sacral osteopathy is especially suitable for children and the new born with conditions such as glue ear, colic and the detrimental effects of a difficult delivery. These may also manifest as restlessness, behavioural problems or learning difficulties.

This approach tunes into the subtle, rhythmic Involuntary Movement System that occurs throughout the whole body. The effects of previous or recent trauma can compromise the function of this system and may lead to a reduced ability to compensate for the stresses and strains of daily life.

I should say that this approach is not just for children, but can be used on anyone.

Research

These are given as a few examples, as each person is assessed on their own merits and possible outcomes discussed. 

Ultimately, health is the responsibility of the individual and with the right treatment & advice, all but the most severe conditions may be alleviated. As a very general rule, the more severe or longer you've had the problem - the longer it will take to recover. Having said that, it is not that unusual for, say a 10 year old problem to resolve with a few treatments.

For other conditions - see the A-Z section.