How osteopathy can help...
As a new patient, you’ll start by completing our patient intake form, which helps us gather your medical history and details about your presenting concern in advance.
At your first appointment, we’ll review this information together, discuss any points that need clarification, and carry out specific movement and postural assessments to create a personalised treatment plan.
Depending on your needs, treatment may include any combination of the following therapies…
Soft Tissue Massage
Massage relaxes muscle fibres, improving circulation to the area so that the body can bring in nutrients and improve fluid exchange to kickstart the body’s natural healing response.
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The increase in blood flow has the effect of raising skin temperature improving the elasticity of muscles fibres. This results in an increase in range of motion, improving mobility and aiding in relaxation.
Articulation
'Articulation' techniques involve slow, controlled movements which help you relax and reduce the guarding or protective response in your muscles which could be contributing to your pain.
This type of mobilisation can stimulate the recovery of fluids in the local tissues, distributing it effectively and lubricating joint surfaces.
The joint is persuaded through suitable ranges of motion which reduce strain in the overlying tissues and encourage increased mobility.
Muscle Energy Technique
Muscle energy techniques strengthen the muscles around the joint that’s causing pain so that it can better withstand any misalignment, thereby reducing pain in this area. It has the effect of preventing over compression of joint surfaces and further loading of the joint, which could be contributing to your pain.
These techniques contract the muscles, encouraging blood flow, which pumps oxygen and nutrients into the area. This means circulation is improved and releases chemical messengers from the brain (endorphins) which are the body’s natural pain killer. A relaxation response also occurs, achieving an increase in joint mobility and reduced ‘stiffness’.
Harmonic Technique
Harmonic technique uses gentle, rhythmic oscillations to encourage natural movement within the joints and surrounding tissues. These subtle movements can help reduce muscle tension, calm the nervous system, and improve joint mobility without forceful input. By working with the body’s natural rhythms, this approach can ease discomfort and support a gradual return to more comfortable, coordinated movement.
Lymphatic Drainage
Lymphatic drainage gently encourages the flow of lymph throughout the body, helping to remove waste products and reduce fluid build-up.
By stimulating the lymphatic system, it supports the body’s natural detoxification processes and helps regulate fluid balance. This can reduce swelling, ease tension, and promote a feeling of lightness and wellbeing.
Joint Manipulation
Joint manipulation is a precise, hands-on technique used to improve movement within restricted joints and reduce discomfort. It is sometimes accompanied by a brief “click” or “crack” sound, caused by the release of gas within the joint.
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Research suggests many of its effects are neurophysiological, helping to reduce muscle guarding and temporarily increase range of motion. This improvement can then be reinforced through your own active input, such as prescribed exercises and movement strategies. When clinically appropriate and with your consent, it may form part of your personalised treatment plan.
