Osteopathy

Osteopathy was founded in the United States by Dr A.T. Still in the late 19th century. It focuses on improving motion and mobility in the body through a variety of methods, which can be manipulations to the spine and other joints, mobilisations, soft tissue massage and gentle energy techniques. Practitioners have varied approaches but all share an appreciation for the body’s inert capacity for healing. They activate this by removing restrictions in the body’s tissues. They can focus on the musculoskeletal system, as the majority of osteopaths do in the UK and Australia, as well as help support the viscera (organs) and craniosacral system. The aim is to restore balance in the body, for the nervous system and vessels to flow. Since Osteopathy is a primary healthcare profession, practitioners form diagnoses and may offer health and lifestyle recommendations. While they work outside of national healthcare, they do, on occasion, refer the patient to a medical practitioner. Specific osteopathic support can be offered for all ages, conditions and life stages including during pregnancy.