Osteopathy is a form of manual medicine which uses a "whole body" approach to manual therapy. This is achieved by focusing primarily on how the skeleton, joints, muscles, nerves, circulation, connective tissue and internal organs function as a holistic unit. Osteopaths recognise the important link between the structure of the body and the way it functions. They are trained to gently manipulate the body back into balance to facilitate the body's natural healing ability. Osteopaths are skilled in the evaluation and diagnosis of musculoskeletal and functional disorders of the body and a wide range of hands-on techniques are used for treatment.
Who founded Osteopathy?
Osteopathy was developed in America in the 1870's by a Missouri Doctor named Andrew Taylor Still. Since then, Osteopathy has developed into a profession that is now widely recognised throughout the world as one of the most scientifically validated and effective 'complementary' therapies.
How is an Osteopath trained?
Osteopaths are government registered practitioners who complete a minimum 5-year full-time university degree which encompasses osteopathic technique, anatomy, physiology, pathology and general medical diagnosis. Osteopaths are primary care practitioners and are trained to recognise conditions which require medical referral.
