Osteopathy is an established, recognised system of diagnosis and treatment that lays its main emphasis on the structural integrity of the body. It uses many of the diagnostic procedures used in conventional medical assessment and diagnosis. Its main strength, however, lies in the unique way the patient is assessed from a mechanical, functional and postural standpoint and the manual methods of treatment applied to suit the needs of the individual patient.

Osteopaths use their hands both to investigate the underlying cause of pain and to carry out treatment using a variety of manipulative techniques. These techniques range from muscle and connective tissue stretching to high velocity thrust techniques designed to improve the range of movement of a joint.

Gentle releasing techniques are often used particularly when treating children or elderly patients. Osteopathy offers appropriate treatment approaches to patients across the whole age spectrum. For further information about the osteopathic consultation and treatment please take a look at some more details provided by the General Osteopathic Council, the regulatory body for osteopathy in the UK.