Osteopaths are trained, over a 4 year full time degree course, in anatomy, physiology, pathology and very specific manipulative techniques. This skill set is then applied to the Osteopathic approach to healthcare.
Alongside the theoretical approach to diagnosis, Osteopaths use a well developed sense of touch to investigate the underlying causes of pain and to treat using a variety of manipulative techniques. Treatment may include muscle and connective tissue stretching, rhythmic joint mobilisation, cranial techniques and high velocity thrust to improve the joint mobility.
The key tools for osteopathic diagnosis include listening to the patient’s history, examining muscles and joints and observing movements. X -rays, scans and other clinical investigations are also used if required. A wide range of gentle, non-invasive manual techniques such as deep tissue massage, joint articulation and manipulation are applied therapeutically.
Cranial Osteopathy
Cranial osteopathy is a subtle type of osteopathic treatment that helps the release of stresses and tensions accumulated in the body and the head. The 26 bones making up the skull are intricately joined in such a way as to permit very slight motion (involuntary motion). When body tissues are subjected to trauma such as accidents, this involuntary motion is disrupted. If the trauma is mild, then the body can dissipate the effects and no permanent damage is caused. However, if severe enough, the tissues may not return to their previous state, and a permanent record of trauma remains. This is palpable to trained hands.
Cranial osteopathy can be very helpful in re-balancing the body post trauma whether that be following a difficult birth, changes during adolescence or an accident later in life.
Rates
First Appointment – £70
Follow up – £65
Areas covered
Notting Hill, Kensington, Chelsea, Holland Park, Bayswater, Westminster
