Exploring the Different Types of Osteopathy

Osteopathy is a holistic healthcare approach, focusing on the musculoskeletal system and its relationship with overall health and using touch to assess tissue health and function and usually also to provide treatment.  By addressing structural imbalances and improving movement, osteopaths aim to enhance the body's natural ability to heal.  Within those parameters though diagnosis and treatment approaches can vary widely  and it is important that you choose an osteopath who will give you the care you are expecting .  

​Below, we highlight the various types of osteopathy, with the emphasis on   structural osteopathy, currently the cornerstone of care at our practice.

1. Structural Osteopathy Structural osteopathy is central to what we do. This approach targets the body’s structural components, including muscles, bones, and joints, to alleviate pain and improve mobility. Techniques we use include:

• Soft tissue work: Releasing tension in muscles and fascia.  Techniques may include    stretching, massage, medical acupuncture or inhibition to trigger points and muscle energy techniques
• Joint articulation    and manipulation: Restoring range of motion and reducing discomfort.  Articulation techniques are repetitive, aiming to gradually increase range of motion, manipulations are usually fast movements  delivered with an impulse that  override inappropriate muscular guarding and are often accompanied by an audible pop or click.  Other techniques may include functional technique or balance ligamentous tension where the aim is to find and support a position  where the joint can unlock itself
• Exercise prescription:   We will ask you about your exercise regime and where relevant will  provide you with exercises to  help your recovery
  
• Lifestyle advice: Exercise  for your whole body and as part of your usual routine is more important than rehabilitation exercises and we will try and advise on what would suit you and adaptations you can make .    We're not here to nag you about smoking, drinking or diet are here to support you  with small nudges!
  
• Posture:  This is a tricky one.  Significant postural change is usually a very long term objective and requires a 7 day a week commitment but we can support you as you  make those changes yourself and can advise on such issues as desk/work setup and provide some linited advice on orthotics, wrist splints etc 
  

Structural osteopathy is particularly effective for resolving and managing conditions such as:

• Back and neck pain.
• Joint injuries, including sprains.
• Sports-related injuries and performance optimization.

At our practice, we prioritize individualized care, tailoring treatment plans to each patient’s unique needs.

2. Cranial Osteopathy Cranial osteopathy is a gentle technique focusing on the subtle movements of the skull and its influence on the central nervous system. It is often used for:

• Chronic headaches or migraines.
• Stress-related tension.
• Pediatric care

We don't curently offer cranial osteopathy

3. Visceral Osteopathy Visceral osteopathy addresses the body’s internal organs and their connections to the musculoskeletal system. 
We don't currently offer visceral osteopathy

4. Classical Osteopathy Classical osteopathy builds on the foundational principles of osteopathy as developed by its founder, Andrew Taylor Still. It emphasizes treating the whole body as a connected unit, focusing on balance and harmony. Practitioners use a combination of structural techniques and rhythmic movements to:

• Encourage the body’s self-healing mechanisms.
• Address a wide range of systemic issues.
• Enhance overall vitality and wellness.

This approach is holistic and comprehensive.  Although we don't  currently have any  classically trained osteopaths we do tend towards a very holistic approach in our treatment and we may treat more boradly than some other osteopaths

5. Paediatric Osteopathy   Paediatric osteopathy is designed for infants, children, and adolescents, addressing their unique developmental needs. 
We don't currently offer paediatric osteopathy

Why Structural Osteopathy is key at our clinic,
structural osteopathy is our primary focus because it offers practical, effective solutions for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. By restoring the body’s structural balance, we help patients reduce pain, improve movement, and enjoy a better quality of life.

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