Osteopathy

What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a form of manual medicine which focuses on total body health by releasing tissue tension, thus restoring balance to the musculoskeletal framework. Our professional Osteopaths in Clapham use a combination of massage, stretching and joint manipulation techniques to relieve pain by relaxing muscles, improving circulation and calming nervous system function.

Osteopathy can also include Lymphatic Drainage Massage which aims to use gentle motion to encourage excess build up of lymph fluid to move and drain away from swollen areas.

What do Osteopaths Treat?

Osteopaths treat the whole person, not just the condition. Common conditions that may be helped include:

• Arthritic Pain
• Muscle Spasms
• Aches and Pains
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Frozen Shoulder
• Minor Sports Injuries
• Osteoarthritis of the Hip/Knee
• Acute / Chronic Neck
• Acute / Chronic Low Back Pain
• Rheumatic Pain
• Migraine
• Joint Pains
• Tennis Elbow
• Acute / Chronic Low Back Pain
• Neck Related Headaches or Dizziness (Cervicogenic)
• Knee Pain
• Whiplash associated disorders
• Shoulder Girdle Pain
• Sciatica
• Neuralgia

How safe is Osteopathy?

The Statutory Register of the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC) opened on 9 May 1998. The title “Osteopath” became protected by law from 9 May 2000, and every osteopath in the UK must be registered with the GOsC. Only those practitioners who have been able to show that they are safe and competent Osteopaths have been allowed onto the GOsC register. All Osteopaths are obliged to have medical malpractice insurance and to follow a strict code of conduct.

What happens on my first consultation?

The first session will involve the Osteopath taking a detailed case history, both of the main problem, previous injuries and general health history, followed by a careful physical examination before arriving at a treatment plan. In more complex situations, investigations such as MRI, CT or Ultrasound scans, urine or blood tests may be required to gain full understanding of the problem.

Please bring with you any results of tests, plus details of medication you may be on.

If you are not sure whether your symptoms are amenable to Osteopathic treatment, please feel free to call on 0800 098 8867 to arrange a preliminary chat without obligation.

Will I be asked to undress?

On the first visit to our Clapham based treatment facility, you may be asked to undress to your underwear so the practitioner can view your whole spine. It is important that the Osteopath is able to gather as much relevant information as possible. Gowns are available on request, alternatively please bring a pair of shorts and a vest top.

How long does a course of treatment last?

This depends on the nature and complexity of the problem.

As a general rule things which occurred recently usually resolve fairly quickly: 1 to 3 treatments. Longer term more chronic conditions will take longer. Your Osteopath will discuss your individual situation with you during your first appointment. Be assured that we will be mindful of your circumstances and will not keep you coming longer than necessary.

Timings and Fees

Health Insurance / Cash Plans

Your session could be covered if you are with have a health insurance / cash plan provider, so please give us a call on 020 7720 7933 and we will do our best to help you. We would also recommend speaking with your provider to confirm eligibility beforehand as well.