What do we do

What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a unique healthcare system of diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. Osteopaths believe that structure-governs-function and that the body has its own medicine chest, i.e. the body have amazing capabilities of self-healing, but if the structure is not at its most favourable then how can it function efficiently. Thus osteopathic treatment can help the body�s self-healing mechanisms to reduce pain and improve function.

What do we treat?

Osteopathy is best known for its benefit of chronic low back pain, which is also one of the recommended therapies by The National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE). But osteopathy can be beneficial for many other ranges of ailments and complaints, including: joint and muscle pain, spinal, shoulder, elbow, hip, knee, foot and ankle complaints, arthritic pains and general mobility problems.

Osteopaths are also trained to know when it is not appropriate to treat and in that case would refer to the appropriate practitioner.

How do we treat?

Osteopathy is a gentle and controlled hands-on therapy. Techniques used include: massage, stretching, mobilisation and manipulation. Some techniques may require involvement from the patient. At Wellmead Osteopathy we also use Western Medical Acupuncture when appropriate. Self-help advises concerning stretching, exercise and health, to improve and maximise effect of treatment, may also be given.

What to expect?

At your first appointment he Osteopath will start by taking details about the presenting problem, followed by a thorough medical history and information on any medication you may be taking. Then you are asked to dress down as necessary, generally to your underwear, for a physical examination and evaluation. The Osteopath will make a diagnosis considering all the information and discuss a treatment plan with you. It is important that you fully understand and feel comfortable with this, and you are free to ask questions and we can discuss options. If appropriate, treatment will commence and/ or you will be advised on the suggested course of action. After treatment you may be advised on stretches or exercises to complete at home, this will facilitate your progress towards getting better.

Most complaints resolve in 3 � 6 treatments, but generally the older the complaint, the longer it will take to resolve. Many patients also come for a regular maintenance treatment to help prevent complaints occurring.

First appointments will last between 45 � 60 minutes, with follow-up appointments lasting around 30 minutes.

Although Osteopaths aim to work within a pain free range, occasionally you can expect some soreness during or following treatment; this is similar to the ache following a good workout. This should improve over a day or two, and generally symptoms are reduced.

If at any stage you are at all concerned or unclear about the process, the Osteopath is always open for questions.

To book an appointment, or for more information please call us on 01372 897497 or email us at info@wellmeadosteopathy.co.uk