When you visit the Osteopath for the first time a medical history will be taken and you will be given a musclo-skeletal assessment usually involving posture and movements both actively (performed by the patient) and passively (the patient's joints and muscles moved and examined by the practicioner). This assessment is considered alongside factors such as work and leisure to enable a full diagnosis and treatment plan to be determined.
Osteopaths use their hands both to discover the underlying causes of pain and to carry out treatment using a variety of techniques including soft tissue stretching, massage, rhythmic passive joint movements or high velocity thrust techniques. Gentle release techniques are often used, particularily treating children and elderly patients.
The aim of all treatment is to improve the quality and range of movement of muscles and joints, so that the musclo skeletal system works as efficiently as possible for the individual.
Emphasis is placed on explaining to patients what has been diagnosed so that they are aware how they may aid their recovery and avoid future injury or pain.