What is Osteopathy? 

Osteopathy is a system of diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of medical conditions. It works with the structure and function of the body, and is based on the principle that the wellbeing of an individual depends on the skeleton, muscles, ligaments and connective tissues functioning smoothly together. 

Who and what do osteopaths treat? 

Osteopaths’ patients include the young, older people, manual workers, office professionals, pregnant women, children and sports people. Patients seek treatment for a wide variety of conditions, including back pain, repetitive strain injury, changes to posture in pregnancy, postural problems caused by driving or work strain, the pain of arthritis and sports injuries.

What to expect when visiting the osteopath 

Your appointment with the osteopath will last approximately 30mins, they will ask you a series of questions about yourself, these will relate to the complaint with which you present, your general health (past and present), medical history (including operations and illnesses) and whether you are taking any medication. Although some questions may seem unnecessary, all of this information helps us to make a diagnosis to decide a suitable treatment plan for you. 

In order to make an accurate diagnosis your practitioner may require you to dress down enabling them to see the troublesome area of your body. If you are concerned about the suitability of clothing please contact us prior to the appointment. 

Your practitioner may ask you to perform certain simple movements in order to understand and assess your condition. Further examination will normally be conducted whilst you lie on the examination couch. This may include various tests such as blood pressure, reflexes, joint mobility and muscle strength. 

A treatment programme will be developed and aimed toward resolving the problem which has been identified, this will help you to progress toward to a good recovery.

Osteopathy is available at our Shefford clinic priced from £43