Osteopathy is a hands on form of treatment that cares for the health of the whole person. It is a safe, natural and non-invasive treatment tailored to the individual patient. Osteopathic treatment is based on the relationship that the structures and systems of the body and the effect they have on the overall function of the person.

A Registered Osteopath is highly qualified in musculoskeletal medicine i.e. injuries to the joints, muscles, ligaments, bones, nerves, fascia etc.

All Osteopaths have to belong to The Osteopathic Council which operates under the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act 2003 (HPCA Act). The Act was passed on 18 September 2003.The purpose of the Act is to protect the health and safety of members of the public by providing mechanisms to ensure that health practitioners are competent and fit to practise in their professions.

Unitec in Auckland runs a 5 year course in Osteopathic Medicine.

The registered Osteopath receives a conventional medical training similar to doctors, including anatomy, physiology and pathology. Students are trained in the use of pathological tests and the reading of x-rays. While studying subjects such as pharmacology, the emphasis is placed on a detailed practical understanding of the musculoskeletal system.

All Osteopathic schools have outpatient clinics attached to them so that over 1,500 hours of supervised practical experience are gained prior to qualifying.

• Headaches
• Stiff Neck
• Sciatica
• Chest Pain
• Slipped Disc
• Migraines
• Rib Pain
• Fibrosis
• Jaw Problems

Osteopathic treatment operates as a tool to enable the body's tissues to work towards health. It aims to restore to normal those tissues that have become tight, congested or irritated and have been preventing the body from functioning properly.

If on examination the cause is found to be outside the scope of osteopathy, further tests or an appropriate specialist will be advised.

A number of gentle hands on techniques are employed. The techniques utilised depend very much on the severity of the problem, fragility of the tissues, age and anxiety of the patient. Massage, pressure to tender areas in the muscle, traction and mobilisation are all examples.

Manipulation is the application of the minimal amount of force necessary to free up 'jammed' spinal joints. A small click may be heard which is non-painful.

Before beginning treatment the Osteopath will establish a case history of past and present conditions. This is followed by a physical examination to help establish the cause of current symptoms.

The examination will include orthopaedic and neurological tests. The pain free range of movement will be assessed both actively and via the use of palpation (sensitive touch). When necessary you may be referred for bloodtests, urine tests or x-rays.

A thorough training in the bodies biomechanics enables the osteopath to relate problem areas to possible work, exercise or lifestyle stresses.

As health is considered to be far more than simply resolving structural problems other factors are discussed, and advice given on areas such as stress management, exercise and diet.

The clinic is keen to find ways in which you can self manage the injury. Depending on your condition this may range from simple stretches to a full rehabilitation programme utilising swissballs, therabands, dumbbells etc. Sport specific exercises may be suggested or relevant classes such as the hot pools aquarobics, yoga, walking/running groups etc. may be advised.

You may also discuss lifting techniques, bed, posture etc and made aware of potential aggravating factors in your everyday lifestyle.

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