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Osteopathy
A system of manipulative medicine primarily concerned with
establishing and maintaining good joint mobility and muscular
balance throughout the body. Techniques used include rhythmic
joint movements, manipulation, soft tissue and some more gentle
techniques unique to osteopathy. Conditions treated
over all musculo-skeletal, limb and many other ailments.
Cranial Osteopathy
By harnessing and gently manipulating a subtle pulsation
generated by the brain (The Cranial Rhythm), Cranial Osteopathy
can be used to treat almost any condition. It allows
easier access to energetic, emotional and neurological levels
in the body than ordinary osteopathy It has been found to
be particularly good for babies, children and during pregnancy.
Osteopaths and Cranial Osteopaths: Tim
Dennis, Sheila
Work, Richard
Twining
Frequently
asked questions
Does Osteopathy hurt? The vast majority of techniques
used in osteopathy are painless. Some of the deep soft tissue
techniques used are painful but very short lived.
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Do I need to see my doctor before having
Osteopathy? No, you do not have to see your GP before
starting osteopathic treatment. (See also under private medical
insurance.)
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Will my medical insurance cover my osteopathic
treatments? Yes, almost all medical insurance schemes
now include provision for osteopathy.
You may need to see your GP BEFORE commencing treatment.
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Is osteopathy safe? Yes, osteopathy is
very safe. As part of your initial assessment your medical
history is carefully analysed for reasons to avoid certain
techniques. There are however virtually no circumstances in
which some form of osteopathic treatment is not possible and
entirely safe.
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Can I have osteopathy while having other
treatments? Osteopathy is compatible with several other
complementary and alternative treatments, physiotherapy and
massage.
Ask your osteopath about combining, as it does affect the
spacing of treatment.
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Can I still take my medication while having
osteopathy? You MUST continue to take all of the
drugs your doctor has prescribed whist having osteopathy.
Osteopathy is safe to have with all drugs. You should be able
to come off all the painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs
quickly after having osteopathy.
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Can I have osteopathy if
I am pregnant? Yes, osteopathy is suitable for woman during
pregnancy and entirely safe. However, we prefer not to treat
during the first trimester if we can avoid it.
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Does it matter what I wear for osteopathy?
For most treatments we like to be able to see and feel
the spine and prefer you to wear sensible underwear. Easily
removed outer clothing is best. Please avoid large or delicate
jewelry.
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Do I need to take time off work after osteopathic
treatment? Following an osteopathic treatment, it is not
normally necessary for most people to refrain from work. However
it is advisable to avoid vigorous or heavy activities for
the rest of that day.
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Can I exercise whilst having osteopathy?
Under most circumstances, especially if you are having
osteopathy for an acute condition, it is best to avoid all
exercise until your osteopath advises otherwise. Under all
circumstances you must not exercise the day of the treatment.
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Is osteopathy suitable for babies and young
children? Yes, cranial osteopathy especially is suitable
for babies and children, right from birth and is absolutely
safe.
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Is osteopathy suitable for older people?
Osteopathy remains suitable for someone throughout their
life. Some techniques may need changing slightly but the benefits
are the same at any age.
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Can osteopathy treat (osteo) arthritis? Arthritis
is a very common condition which osteopathy is suitable for.
Although arthritis is a non-reversable degenerative condition,
many of the compensatory and pain relieving postural adaptations
to it are entirely reversible. This frequently eliminates
all the symptoms, however the underlying arthritic changes
remain.
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How long is an osteopathic session? The
average length of time for an osteopathy session is 30 minutes.
Certain conditions and your initial consultation may take
longer.
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Are there any side effects from osteopathic treatment?
Following your first session of osteopathy you can expect
to feel stiff and sore for upto 48 hours. This is similar
to the feeling after too much unaccustomed exercise. When
very long term problems are released, soreness and stiffness
are also common. Following most treatments you will not be
in pain, but will probably feel more tired/relaxed than normal.
Drink plenty of water and go to bed early. If after a treatment
you are in a degree of pain you or your osteopath didn't expect,
phone to discuss it, there is usually a very straight forward
explanation.
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