Andrew Taylor Still the founder of Osteopathy, was a physician at the time of the American Civil War,he proposed that dysfunction in the musculoskeletal system may reflect physiological changes in the body. Physical treatment was able to 'tone up' or calm down physiology . Additionally manipulating carefully and artfully around strained back joints decreased pain and renewed function.
As a science some of the older methods adopted by the profession are subjective by todays standards, however osteopaths have developed an art in the manipulation of joints which is comfortable and effective. All treatment administered by the modern osteopath aims to be evidence based as much as possible with a hint of the old methods through the art, however consent is sought at all times before proceeding with treatment
Recent research has led to recommendations for manipulation for the treatment of low back pain in addition to exercise therapy and acupuncture. Manipulations carried out by the Osteopath are designed to be applied in a variety of ways and situations. This allows for treatment across the age and ability/disability spectrum.
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In the UK Osteopathy is now self governed through the General Osteopathic Council who regulate Osteopaths and the profession as a whole for development and public protection.
The basic premise of Osteopathy is that 'Structure governs Function' . Continued research seems to validate this relationship; faith in the body as a self healing mechanism constitutes an important part of Osteopathic treatment.
At spinalsolutions we also offer massage sessions and craniosacral therapy which may be supportive to Osteopathic Treatment or can be had as standalone sessions - please phone to enquire.
