Ever wondered what an osteopath does? What qualifications you need to be an osteo? What does an osteopath treat everyday? You’ve come to the right place. Join us as we chat through our top osteopathy FAQs and answer all of them in the process.
Our top Osteopathy FAQs
What is an Osteopath?
This is a common question we encounter! An osteopath is a government-registered, allied health practitioner who aims to improve a person’s overall health and wellness. We treat the whole person, not just a single condition or area in particular (and not just bones – a common misconception). We take a holistic approach to healthcare, focusing on the relationship between the body’s structure and function, and recognising the capacity of the body for self-healing.
What qualifications do you need to become an Osteopath?
Depending on the country of study, it takes 4 to 5 years of university degree-level education to become an osteopath. Osteopathic students are expected to learn about all areas of the human body, the principles behind osteopathic thinking and treatment, and hands-on techniques. Students go through a range of written and practical assessments each year to help to prepare them to take on the important role of a health practitioner, allowing them to treat injuries, deal with chronic pain, aches and pains, joint problems and so much more.
What conditions can an Osteopath treat?
Osteopath’s can treat a wide range of conditions including:
- Neck and back pain
- Headaches
- Arthritis
- Shoulder and elbow pain
- Pelvic, hip and leg pain
- Tendon injury
- Pregnancy-related pain and postural problems
- Minor sports injuries including ligament and muscle strains
And so much more…
What happens during an appointment?
During a typical osteopathy appointment, osteopaths carry out a clinical assessment, discuss your medical history and symptoms with you, diagnose, and apply hands-on therapy and other treatment techniques. We also provide postural, workplace, diet, exercise, stress-management and lifestyle advice.
What techniques do Osteopaths use?
Depending on your symptoms, some of the treatment methods we may use include:
- Soft tissue massage
- Spinal manipulation
- Articulation and mobility of joints and muscles
- Muscle energy work – encouraging muscles to work against resistance
If you have an osteo question on the tip of your tongue, contact us today to have it answered! Our team will happily answer any queries that you may have before your appointment takes place contact our Rainham or Maidstone clinic today to get started.
