Osteopathy is a safe and effective form of manual medicine that is primarily concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal conditions. Founded upon the ideology that all of the body’s systems are related, Osteopathy works by improving the relationship between the moving body, its organs and the nerve and blood supply to achieve better health.
Osteopaths use their enhanced knowledge of human anatomy and the information they gain from your medical history, to help diagnose the root cause of your symptoms. Once a diagnosis has been established, the Osteopath will propose a specific treatment plan to address your complaint.
As Osteopaths, we understand how structure and function are interrelated; from the smallest cell to the largest bone, there is a constant movement as it functions. Each tissue/structure in the body has a specific role in order for the body to function efficiently and effectively. If this movement is altered in any way, the tissues will not function as they should and pain will result.
Here at Edge Osteopathy we treat people of all ages and choose specific osteopathic techniques which are most appropriate for you and your condition.
What we treat:
This list is not exhaustive. Please get in touch with us on [email protected] to see how we can help you.
What to expect on your first visit
Your first appointment will generally last 45 minutes to an hour. We will start by asking about your problem as well as details of your medical history and lifestyle. This is very important as this will help to make an accurate diagnosis and suggest an appropriate treatment plan.
This will then be followed by a physical examination. Your Osteopath will need to examine the area(s) of your body causing discomfort, which may be in a different location to the symptoms. We may ask you to do some simple movements to observe your mobility. We will examine your joints, muscles and carry out any relevant orthopaedic tests. We may need you to remove some of your clothing, please let us know if you are uncomfortable with this. If you are uncomfortable with any part of this, you have the right to ask them to stop at any stage without prejudicing your future treatment. You can also ask a friend or relative to accompany you throughout the session(s). We will then make a diagnosis and discuss a treatment plan with you. If Osteopathic treatment is not suitable for your condition, we will advise on the best alternative course of action.
Is treatment painful and what to expect after?
Osteopaths use a wide range of techniques such as massage, articulation and manipulation, some of these techniques may cause discomfort, however throughout the treatment your osteopath will be asking for feedback, so if anything is causing discomfort they will adapt their approach.
Because of the physical nature of the treatment, it is not unusual to sometimes feel sore in the first 24-48 hours after your treatment. Your osteopath will explain any likely reactions they may expect you to experience at the time of your treatment. If you are concerned about your pain you should contact your osteopath, we would always prefer you to let us know how you feel after an appointment.
Booking an appointment
You do not need a referral to see any of our Osteopaths and you can book directly using our online booking system. However, if you have private medical insurance, please check that you are covered prior to making an appointment as some insurers may require you to see a doctor first.
Training and Regulation
You can be confident that your osteopath has the highest level of training and expertise, and will provide a safe and effective diagnosis and treatment for you. In the UK, the osteopathic profession is regulated by the General Osteopathic Council and all osteopaths are trained to degree level.
Osteopaths are also recognised by the NHS as Allied Health Professionals and play a critical role in the diagnosis, treatment and care of people of all ages.
All Osteopaths at Edge are registered with the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC) and Institute of Osteopathy.
