Osteopathy is an established therapy that aims to improve health across all body systems by manipulating & strengthening the musculoskeletal and visceral framework.
Osteopathy recognises that much of the pain, discomfort and loss of function we endure stems from imbalances in the function of body structure, as well as damage caused to it by diseases.
Not only does Osteopathy rely on many of the diagnostic procedures involved in standard medical assessment and diagnosis, it, uniquely, assesses the patient mechanically, functionally and posturally in order to devise a treatment tailored to the individual. Osteopathy is safe and effective, aiming to promote the health of people through the use of manual therapy, exercise and health advice. It not only looks at the physical symptoms but at the wider picture, including lifestyle, attitudes, general health, and medical history. Osteopathy is therefore a patient-centred, not only condition-centred, approach.
Osteopaths are highly-trained healthcare professionals, regulated by law and recognised as one of the Allied Health Professions by NHS England. Osteopathy is suitable for all ages, from babies to the elderly.
Osteopaths help to reduce tissue inflammation, as well as diagnose and treat subtle dysfunctions in the nervous system that can cause hidden problems in muscle function and other aspects of the body that can be hard to uncover by other health professionals not trained to do so. By uncovering these significant underlying causes of pain and dysfunction, Osteopaths are often able to restore normal health and function.
Much long-term, recurrent pain is caused by degenerative changes.
A recent survey conducted by the General Osteopathic Council, the body that regulates Osteopaths, found that 96% of respondents were satisfied or very satisfied with their osteopathic care, and over 50% reported an improvement in their symptoms one week after their first consultation.
This report from the Institute of Osteopathy brings together existing research around the patient experience, clinical effectiveness and safety of osteopathic practice.
You should consider seeing an osteopath when you’re experiencing recurrent pain, discomfort, or stiffness in muscles and joints that affects your daily activities or quality of life. If conventional medical treatment hasn’t provided relief, or if you’re seeking a holistic approach that addresses the body as a whole rather than just treating specific symptoms, an osteopath might offer the solution.
Additionally, if you’re interested in preventive care to maintain flexibility, improve posture, and enhance overall well-being, booking in with an osteopath can be a proactive step towards healthier living.
Osteopathy is especially beneficial in the following conditions:
As your Osteopath may ask you to undress to your underwear, please ensure you are wearing something that you are comfortable with.
For females, we recommend sports shorts and a sports bra. If you are not comfortable undressing, just let your Osteopath know and he or she will work around this.
Before your first consultation, there will be a GDPR and Consent Form emailed to you. Please fill this in before the consultation.
Whatever your pain, the skilled diagnostic and therapeutic techniques of osteopathy often allow you a speedy return to normal activity. If you have had the pain for a long time and other forms of treatment have not helped, osteopathic treatment, with its patient-centred approach, may be beneficial, although it may sometimes require time and patience. The Osteopath will look at how your whole body functions and so be able to reduce strain on the painful area caused by mechanical problems elsewhere.
There are times when your Osteopath may recommend parallel care. Osteopaths frequently work in close co-operation with your doctor.
Aston Clinic London is a third-generation complementary health clinic based in New Malden and serves the local areas of Kingston, Wimbledon, Raynes Park, Surbiton, Thames Ditton, Hampton Court, Chessington, Worcester Park, Sutton, Morden, Richmond, Putney, Teddington, Twickenham and other areas of southwest London and Surrey.
