Osteopathy
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Osteopathy is a way of detecting, treating and preventing health problems by moving, stretching and massaging a person’s muscles and joints.
Osteopathy is based on the principle that the well-being of an individual depends on their bones, muscles, ligaments and connective tissue functioning smoothly together.
Osteopaths use physical manipulation, stretching and massage with the aim of:
- increasing the mobility of joints
- relieving muscle tension
- enhancing the blood supply to tissues
- helping the body to heal.
They use a range of techniques, but not drugs or surgery.
In the UK, osteopathy is a health profession regulated by UK law.
Although osteopaths may use some conventional medical techniques, the use of osteopathy isn’t always based on scientific evidence.
Common uses
Most people who see an osteopath do so for help with conditions that affect the muscles, bones and joints, such as:
- lower back pain
- uncomplicated neck pain (as opposed to neck pain after an injury such as whiplash) ...
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