Osteopathy

Osteopathy is a gentle form of treatment that can help with a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions and related problems. Osteopaths see the body as a whole, as a unit of body, mind and spirit, and we take all aspects into account when we treat.  Osteopaths aim to improve function (e.g. the mobility of a joint, rib movement, diaphragm tension) as well as structure (e.g. shortened muscles and postural habits from sitting a lot). I have a special interest in Cranial Osteopathy and work with different techniques (cranial, fascial release, stretches and gentle mobilisation and manipulation of joints).

Osteopathy can support healing after an injury (sprained ankle, knee injury, shoulder injury, ...) or help with more chronic conditions like a sore back from heavy physical work, or if you are sitting at a desk a lot. I can also support you during or after pregnancy or when you are suffering from a chronic condition like headaches, arthritis, chronic fatigue, etc. These are just some examples where Osteopathy can help, I am happy to answer any questions before you book an appointment.

Sometimes a past physical or emotional trauma is the cause of a problem, past experiences can be held in the body and cause physical symptoms, these can manifest years after the original event or have been there for a while as a milder problem.

Our body is able to compensate for injuries or strains like postural imbalances for quite a long time, but at one point this compensation might not work anymore, and you experience pain or tightness. Osteopathy as a hands-on treatment can address these problems and also be helpful in finding out how you can help yourself.

If you have experienced emotional or physical trauma Osteopathy can help you process related physical symptoms or help you be more present in your body.

Cranial Osteopathy

Cranial Osteopaths work with subtle changes of tissue quality and tension. They treat the whole body, not just the head as the name might imply.

Patients often say that they feel more balanced and relaxed after a treatment.

Cranial Osteopathy is very suitable for the treatment of babies and children. If your baby does not like lying on their back, suffers from reflux or has problems after a difficult birth, osteopathic treatment can often help.

What happens at your appointment

At your first appointment we will talk about your case history and I will do a physical assessment, including movement tests and palpation, to find the cause of your symptoms. I will explain my findings and suggestions to help you feel better. There will also be time for you to ask  any questions you might have. Cranial Osteopathy is a gentle, hands-on treatment. You will usually be lying down, some techniques might be done sitting. After the treatment we can discuss if it would be beneficial for you to come back for a few more follow-up or regular MOT treatments. If necessary, I can refer you for further tests, e.g. x-ray, blood tests etc.

I can also give you exercises to do at home as well as health advice to support your recovery and longterm wellbeing.

It is best to wear loose fitting clothes or sports clothes. I might ask you to undress to your underwear, as this helps with some tests and parts of the assessment (women might like to wear a sports bra or vest top and men sports or boxer shorts). I will ask if you are comfortable with this, and you can also bring somebody with you to the appointment.

Children under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.