What is Osteopathy?

What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a whole body system of diagnosis and hands on treatment, developed in the 1870’s by a Missouri practicing physician and surgeon, Andrew Taylor Still. Dr Still became critical of the medical system at his time as he saw many people die of serious illness, including his 3 children. He developed a branch of medicine that took into account the following principles, which Osteopathy today is still based upon:

• The body is a Unit.
• Structure and function within the body are intimately related. If the body’s structure is affected by injury, illness or stress, this will have a large effect on how it can function.
• The body possesses self-healing mechanisms. In a healthy individual these are constantly at work effectively. In an individual who is unwell or injured, Osteopathy can help restore structural, and therefore functional, integrity.

The World Health Organisation recognises the Osteopathic concept of somatic dysfunction as being scientifically proven, and the British Medical Association also recognises Osteopathy as a discrete medical discipline. Osteopaths are trained in anatomy, physiology, pathology and general medical diagnosis, as well as Osteopathic diagnosis and technique. They are qualified to perform standard medical examinations and recognise conditions that require further medical referral. If on presentation to the Osteopath, your condition is not appropriate for Osteopathic treatment, you will be advised and referred to your GP or an appropriate alternative.