What is Osteopathy?
Simply put, osteopaths work hands on with the muscles, connective tissues, joints and viscera (organs) to relieve areas of tension or to stimulate areas of disfunction. Osteopathy is a safe and effective treatment approach that is suitable for the whole family, from babies to the older population, and everyone in between.
Osteopaths are Allied Healthcare Professionals who are experts in the musculoskeletal system and its relationship with other systems of the body. We use a variety of manual therapy techniques such as, massage, stretching, joint mobilisations and manipulations, gentle cranial or indirect techniques to bring the body back to balance and restore health. We also offer health and exercise advice as required. Osteopaths work together with the patient to create a tailored, whole-person approach to guide patients back to health.
We have three osteopaths here at Atlantic Osteopaths. Cher specialises in Women's Health and Complex Pain. Sally specialises in Cranial Osteopathy and Adam specialises in Acute Pain and Sports Injuries.
Women's Health & Complex Pain
Cher has completed post graduate studies in Women's Health Osteopathy, Female Health Yoga Therapeutics and is a member of WHOMBS Osteopathy, which stands for Women's Health, Obstetrics, Mother and Baby Support. Cher is also interested in treating complex pain and offers a longer treatment option to cover both of these. Her treatments can include soft tissue, myofascial release, joint mobilisations and / or manipulations, visceral release, western medical acupuncture and exercise advice. She is also trained to complete pelvic exams, including internal pelvic floor as necessary.
Cranial Osteopathy
Both Sally and Cher offer Cranial Osteopathy, although Sally specialises in it. Cranial osteopathy is a subtle and refined approach to treatment, the osteopath will use a highly developed sense of touch to feel subtle changes of tension and tissue quality to diagnose areas of strain or dysfunction. In a cranial treatment, the osteopath is deeply connected to the inner world of anatomy and physiology. Here, the body can tell the story of what has happened to it, what trauma (emotional or physical) it has suffered, and how it is trying to cope with the compensatory effects of these traumas.
Diagnosis and treatment are intimately linked as the osteopath works to activate the innate ability of the body to heal. Offering gentle and specific support to bring the tissues back into balance and to restore health. During the treatment, patients often feel different sensations, such as mild aching or sensitivity that gradually eases. A feeling of warmth or an unwinding of tensions. Some patients may not feel anything at all, but rather feel the benefits following treatment.
As cranial osteopathy is such a gentle but effective approach, it is well known in the treatment of babies, and for patients who are unable to tolerate a strong, manual treatment. However, it is suitable for all ages and stages of life.
Sports Osteopathy
What an osteopath can do for sports injuries - A different approach. We look at how your joints, muscles, tendons and nerves are working together - not just the painful spot. Sports osteopathy takes a whole-body view. An injury in one area often reflects a problem elsewhere - perhaps an old ankle injury has changed how you run, or shoulder stiffness has altered your tennis serve mechanics. In your appointment, we don't just focus on where it hurts. We assess movement patterns, joint function, muscle balance, and the compensations your body has developed over time.
What can osteopaths treat?
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Arthritic Pain
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Circulatory Problems
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Cramps
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Digestive Problems
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Fibromyalgia
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Frozen Shoulder
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Shoulder and Elbow Pain
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Tennis Elbow / Golfer's Elbow
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Headache
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Joint Pains
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Osteoarthritic Symptoms
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General acute and chronic back ache / back pain
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Generalised aches and pains
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Migraine Prevention
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Minor Sports Injuries
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Muscle Spasms
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Neuralgia
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Tension and Inability to Relax
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Rheumatic Pain
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Sciatica
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Uncomplicated Neck Pain