Osteopathy is a safe and natural system of primary healthcare that focuses on the musculoskeletal system to improve the structure and function of the body.
It was founded in the 1800s by an American medical doctor, Dr Andrew Taylor Still, who believed in and placed great emphasis on “patient centred care” and the promotion of “wellness”.
Osteopathy facilitates the bodies’ natural capacity to heal by influencing the blood vessels, nerves, lymphatic system, and internal organs via the musculoskeletal system which is the supportive network of the body.
Osteopathy regards the body as an integral unit and treatment helps to improve wellbeing and general health as well as reducing pain.
This makes osteopathy a distinct and unique approach to patient care.
Osteopathy is suitable for all ages as treatment varies from very gentle to more vigorous.
Although osteopathy is a very effective way of reducing musculoskeletal pain, the emphasis is on improving the structure-function of the body so that that can cope with the stress placed upon it and pain is not necessarily the main indicator of such dysfunction. As a result patients do not have to be in pain to seek osteopathic treatment and everyone can benefit from it.
- Before, during and after pregnancy
- Babies and children
- Sports, hobbies
- Young adults & Elderly
- Maintenance of health, Posture & Orthotics
Osteopathy is used to treat numerous conditions and symptoms. Treatment is based on a patient’s medical history, symptoms, lifestyle and levels of stress.
Once a diagnosis is formed, a variety of techniques can be used to treat many common conditions and symptoms including :
An osteopathic consultation will involve a detailed case history, including information about past injuries, medical history and lifestyles.
A biomechanical assessment is then carried out along with orthopaedic and neurological tests if necessary.
As primary healthcare professionals, registered osteopaths are aware of underlying pathology and should a patient, warrant further investigations such as blood tests and scans, referral is arranged.
Once a diagnosis is formed a biomechanical assessment is carried out and treatment and rehabilitation plan devised to suit the individual.
For new patients a consultation lasts between 45 – 60 minutes.
Follow up treatments last 30-45 minutes.
Kellie Taylor and Darren Conroy are registered osteopaths with a Bachelor of Science Honours degree in osteopathic medicine. They are affiliated with the Irish Osteopathic Council, General Osteopathic Council and the British Osteopathic Association.
Continuous professional development is a requirement within the practice and the emphasis on learning and developing new skills ensures patients receive the best possible care.
Babies and Children
Babies
The birth process is a very stressful event for a baby and many factors can to contribute the patterns of strain the baby will experience, including :
- Duration of labour
- Position of baby e.g Breech
- Type of delivery e.g. Caesarean section
Many of the strain patterns arise from the pressure placed on the head, spine and pelvis, during the process of delivery.
If these strain patterns are not addresses they can lead to further problems as the child develops.
Osteopathic treatment is a safe, gentle and effective way of treating babies and should symptoms warrant further investigation, referral is arranged.
Throughout the stages of child development, increased weight bearing and activity leads to more force and strain on the body.
They are often involved in various sports and hobbies in which they are expected to perform at high levels, placing great demands on bodies that are venerable as they develop and not yet achieving full adult strength.
Children may not report pain but as they grow and the body becomes more compromised and postural changes can lead to long term dysfunction if not addressed.
Maternity Care
Babies