WHAT IS AN OSTEOPATH AND HOW CAN THEY HELP ME?
What is an osteopath?
An osteopath is a regulated healthcare professional who diagnoses, treats, and helps prevent pain and injury by focusing on how the body’s muscles, joints, nerves, and connective tissues work together. Osteopaths use hands-on techniques and exercises alongside clinical knowledge to improve movement, reduce pain, and support overall health.
What does an osteopath actually do?
Osteopaths assess how your body moves and functions as a whole, not just where it hurts. They look for restrictions, imbalances, or weaknesses that may be contributing to pain or dysfunction.
Treatment is tailored to you and may change over time as your body responds.
How does osteopathy work?
Osteopathy works on the principle that the body functions best when it moves well. When joints, muscles, or tissues are restricted, pain and other symptoms can develop.
By restoring movement and improving circulation and nerve function, osteopathy supports the body’s natural ability to heal itself.
What techniques do osteopaths use?
Osteopaths use a wide range of hands-on techniques depending on your needs and comfort level.
These may include:
- Soft tissue massage
- Joint mobilisation
- Gentle spinal manipulation
- Stretching and movement techniques
- Postural and ergonomic advice
- Rehabilitation exercises
What conditions can an osteopath help with?
Patients often seek osteopathic care for pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility that affects daily life.
Common conditions we treat include:
- Back and neck pain (disc injury and sciatica)
- Shoulder, hip, and knee problems (rotator cuff, impingement, adhesive capsulitis- ‘frozen shoulder’, arthritis, tendonitis
- Headaches and migraines, cervigogenic headaches and Arnold’s neuralgia/greater occipital neuralgia
- Sports and work-related injuries
- Postural pain and stiffness
Do osteopaths treat the whole body?
Yes, osteopaths always treat the body as a whole rather than focusing on one isolated area. Pain in one place may be caused by problems elsewhere in the body.
For example, knee pain may be influenced by hip mobility, foot mechanics, or lower back movement.
Is an osteopath a doctor?
Osteopaths are not medical doctors, but they are highly trained and state regulated healthcare professionals. In many countries, including the UK, osteopaths must complete a recognised degree and register with a state governing body, the General Osteopathic Council.
They are trained to recognise when medical referral or further investigation is needed.
What happens at an osteopathy appointment?
Your first appointment usually includes a detailed case history and physical examination. The osteopath will ask about your symptoms, lifestyle, work, and medical history.
Treatment often begins at the first visit, followed by advice on exercises or habits to support your recovery.
Is osteopathy safe?
Osteopathy is considered a safe and effective treatment when provided by a qualified, registered osteopath. Techniques are chosen carefully based on your health, age, and medical history.
Mild soreness after treatment is common and usually settles within 24–48 hours.
How is osteopathy different from physiotherapy or chiropractic care?
Osteopathy, physiotherapy, and chiropractic care all help with musculoskeletal problems, but they differ in approach.
Osteopathy places a strong emphasis on whole-body assessment, hands-on treatment and activity, and the relationship between structure and function, alongside lifestyle and self-management advice.
Do I need a GP referral to see an osteopath?
No, you do not usually need a GP referral to see an osteopath. Many patients self-refer and book appointments directly.
However, osteopaths regularly work alongside GPs and other healthcare professionals when needed.
FAQs about osteopathy
Is osteopathy suitable for older adults?
Yes, osteopathy is suitable for older adults and techniques are adapted to be gentle and safe. Treatment can help manage joint stiffness, arthritis-related pain, balance issues, and mobility limitations. Osteopaths consider bone density, medical conditions, and medications when planning care.
Can osteopathy help with headaches?
Osteopathy can help with certain types of headaches, particularly those related to neck tension (cervicogenic and Arnold’s neuralgia or greater occipital neuralgia), posture, or muscle strain. Treatment focuses on improving movement in the neck and upper back, reducing muscle tension, and addressing contributing factors such as posture or stress.
How many osteopathy sessions will I need?
The number of sessions varies depending on your condition, how long symptoms have been present, and how your body responds. Some patients feel improvement after one or two visits, while others benefit from a short course of treatment combined with exercises and advice. You Osteopath should be able to give you clear guidance on this.
What should I wear to an osteopathy appointment?
Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move easily. You may be asked to remove outer layers so the osteopath can assess movement and posture. If you’re unsure, fitted sportswear or loose clothing is usually ideal.
Does osteopathy hurt?
Osteopathy should not be painful, though you may feel some discomfort during certain techniques. Osteopaths work within your comfort levels and adjust treatment as needed. Any post-treatment soreness is usually mild and temporary.
Ready to see if osteopathy can help you?
Book an osteopathy appointment today and take the first step toward moving more comfortably and confidently.
About the author:
Written by Kevin Partridge, BSc (Ost) Hons.
Kevin is a registered osteopath at Trinity Practice, specialising in the assessment and treatment of shoulder and upper limb pain. He has extensive experience helping patients return to comfortable movement using hands-on care, rehabilitation and practical advice.
We have three Osteopaths at The Trinity Practice, Kevin Partridge, Emma Childs and Emma (Chip) Chippendale Ceely.
To make an appointment please click on the link below or for more information please visit our website or call us.
BOOK ONLINE www.trinitypractice.co.uk Telephone 01747 851726