FAQ

OSTEOPATHY

COMMONLY SEEN CONDITIONS

Headaches

1. Can osteopathy help with headaches?

Yes! Osteopathy offers a natural, hands-on approach to relieving headaches by addressing muscular tension, postural imbalances, and restrictions in the spine and neck. Our goal is to support your body’s healing process with minimal intervention.

2. What types of headaches can osteopathy treat?

Osteopathy can help with:

  • Tension headaches caused by stress or muscle tightness
  • Cervicogenic headaches linked to neck or spinal issues
  • Certain migraines, by improving circulation and reducing tension-related triggers
3. How does an osteopath treat headaches?

We take a whole-body approach to treatment. Our practitioners assess your posture, movement, and lifestyle factors to determine the root cause of your headaches. Techniques may include:

  • Gentle manual therapy to release tension
  • Joint mobilisation to improve movement
  • Soft tissue techniques to enhance circulation
  • Personalised advice on posture, ergonomics, and lifestyle adjustments
4. Are osteopathic treatments for headaches safe?

Absolutely. Our treatments are non-invasive, drug-free, and tailored to your individual needs. We focus on restoring balance naturally while ensuring your safety and comfort.

5. How many sessions will I need?

Healing is a journey, and every patient is unique. Some people feel relief after one or two sessions, while others may benefit from ongoing care to prevent recurrence. Our approach is always personalised to your needs.

Asthma

1. What is asthma?

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition of the airways that causes breathing difficulties. Symptoms can include:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Wheezing
  • Chest tightness
  • Persistent coughing, especially at night or after exercise
2. Can osteopathy help with asthma?

Yes! While osteopathy does not replace medication, it can:

  • Improve rib cage mobility, allowing for deeper, more efficient breathing
  • Reduce muscle tension in the chest, neck, and back that may restrict lung function
  • Enhance circulation and lymphatic drainage, supporting lung health
  • Alleviate stress and anxiety, which are common asthma triggers
3. How does osteopathy support lung function?

Our osteopaths use gentle, hands-on techniques to:

  • Mobilise the rib cage and diaphragm to increase lung capacity
  • Release tight intercostal muscles (muscles between the ribs) for easier breathing
  • Improve postural alignment, reducing strain on the lungs
  • Help regulate the autonomic nervous system, which controls breathing patterns
4. What can trigger asthma symptoms?

Asthma symptoms can be triggered by:

  • Allergens (dust, pollen, pet dander)
  • Cold air or changes in weather
  • Respiratory infections
  • Exercise
  • Stress and anxiety
  • Poor posture affecting lung expansion
5. Can posture affect asthma?

Yes! Poor posture especially slouching or forward head posture can compress the lungs and make breathing more difficult. Osteopathy helps correct posture, allowing for better lung expansion and oxygen intake.

Neck Pain

1. Can osteopathy help with neck pain?

Yes! Osteopathy is an effective, natural approach to relieving neck pain by improving posture, reducing muscle tension, and restoring proper movement in the spine and surrounding structures.

2. What causes neck pain?

Neck pain can stem from a variety of factors, including:

  • Poor posture (e.g. prolonged screen use, slouching)
  • Muscle tension and strain
  • Joint restrictions in the spine
  • Stress and emotional tension
  • Previous injuries (e.g. whiplash)
  • Underlying conditions such as arthritis
3. How does an osteopath treat neck pain?

Our practitioners take a whole-body approach to treatment, using techniques such as:

  • Gentle manual therapy to improve mobility
  • Soft tissue techniques to release muscle tension
  • Postural assessments to identify and correct imbalances
  • Joint mobilisation to restore proper spinal function
  • Personalised exercise recommendations to prevent future pain
4. Is osteopathic treatment for neck pain safe?

Yes, osteopathy is a safe, non-invasive, and drug-free approach. Our treatments are tailored to your needs and designed to support your body’s natural healing process.

5. How many sessions will I need?

The number of sessions depends on the severity and cause of your neck pain. Some patients experience relief after one or two visits, while others may benefit from ongoing care to prevent recurrence.

Chronic Pain Syndrome

1. What is Chronic Pain Syndrome (CPS)?

Chronic Pain Syndrome (CPS) is a condition where pain persists for more than three months, often without a clear injury or cause. It can affect multiple areas of the body and is frequently linked to conditions such as fibromyalgia, arthritis, or past injuries that never fully healed.

2. How does chronic pain affect overall health?

Chronic pain can impact both physical and emotional well-being, leading to:

  • Muscle stiffness and limited mobility
  • Fatigue and disrupted sleep
  • Anxiety, stress, or depression
  • Reduced quality of life and difficulty with daily activities
3. Can osteopathy help manage Chronic Pain Syndrome?

Yes! Osteopathy offers a holistic, drug-free approach to chronic pain by:

  • Identifying and treating areas of restriction or imbalance
  • Reducing muscle tension and improving circulation
  • Restoring joint mobility and flexibility
  • Supporting nervous system regulation for pain relief
4. What osteopathic techniques are used for chronic pain?

Treatment is tailored to each patient and may include:

  • Soft tissue therapy to relieve tension and improve circulation
  • Joint mobilisation to restore movement and function
  • Myofascial release to ease muscle tightness
  • Gentle cranial osteopathy for nervous system balance
  • Breathing and relaxation techniques to manage stress-related pain
5. Is osteopathy safe for long-term pain conditions?

Absolutely! Osteopathy is a gentle and non-invasive treatment option that focuses on long-term relief rather than temporary fixes. It’s safe for all ages and works well alongside other treatments.

Whiplash injuries

1. What is whiplash?

Whiplash is a neck injury caused by a sudden, forceful back-and-forth movement of the head, often resulting from car accidents, sports injuries, or falls. This can strain muscles, ligaments, and joints, leading to pain and stiffness.

2. Can osteopathy help with whiplash?

Yes! Osteopathy can relieve pain, improve mobility, and support recovery by reducing muscle tension, improving circulation, and restoring proper movement in the neck and spine.

3. What are the symptoms of whiplash?

Common symptoms include:

  • Neck pain and stiffness
  • Headaches (often starting at the base of the skull)
  • Shoulder and upper back pain
  • Dizziness or balance issues
  • Difficulty turning the head
  • Fatigue or trouble concentrating
4. How does an osteopath treat whiplash injuries?

Our osteopaths take a gentle, whole-body approach to whiplash recovery. Treatment may include:

  • Soft tissue therapy to relieve muscle tension
  • Joint mobilisation to restore movement in the spine
  • Postural assessments to prevent future strain
  • Gentle exercises to strengthen the neck and improve flexibility
  • Breathing and relaxation techniques to reduce stress-related tension
5. Is osteopathy safe for whiplash injuries?

Yes, osteopathic treatment is gentle, non-invasive, and drug-free, making it a safe and effective option for whiplash recovery.

Tennis Elbow

1. What is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis Elbow is a painful condition affecting the tendons in the outer part of the elbow, caused by repetitive strain, overuse, or excessive gripping movements. Despite its name, it’s not just tennis players who experience it—it’s also common in:

  • Office workers
  • Tradespeople (e.g. plumbers, painters, carpenters)
  • Musicians
  • Anyone engaging in repetitive hand and wrist movements
2. What are the symptoms of Tennis Elbow?

Common symptoms include:

  • Pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow
  • Weak grip strength, making it difficult to hold objects
  • Discomfort when lifting, gripping, or twisting (e.g. turning a doorknob)
  • Pain that may radiate down the forearm
3. What causes Tennis Elbow?

Tennis Elbow is caused by overuse and repetitive strain of the forearm muscles, leading to small tears and inflammation in the tendons. Risk factors include:

  • Repetitive hand and wrist movements
  • Poor ergonomics in the workplace
  • Lack of proper warm-up or stretching before activity
  • Weak or imbalanced muscles in the forearm and wrist
4. How can osteopathy help with Tennis Elbow?

Osteopathy takes a whole-body approach to treating Tennis Elbow by:

  • Reducing pain and inflammation through hands-on therapy
  • Improving circulation to promote natural healing
  • Restoring joint mobility in the elbow, wrist, and shoulder
  • Correcting muscle imbalances to prevent recurrence
  • Providing tailored exercises and ergonomic advice
5. What osteopathic techniques are used to treat Tennis Elbow?

Treatment may include:

  • Soft tissue massage to reduce tension in the forearm muscles
  • Joint mobilisation to improve elbow and wrist movement
  • Myofascial release techniques to enhance flexibility
  • Stretching and strengthening exercises for long-term recovery
  • Ergonomic and postural advice to prevent further strain

Postural Problems

1. How does poor posture affect my health?

Poor posture can cause a range of problems, including:

  • Neck, shoulder, and back pain
  • Headaches and tension
  • Reduced mobility and flexibility
  • Muscle imbalances and joint strain
  • Decreased lung capacity and energy levels
2. Can osteopathy help correct my posture?

Yes! Osteopathy helps by:

  • Improving spinal alignment
  • Releasing tension in tight muscles
  • Strengthening weak muscles
  • Enhancing movement and flexibility
  • Providing practical advice on posture, ergonomics, and lifestyle adjustments
3. What causes postural problems?

Common causes include:

  • Prolonged sitting and screen use
  • Poor workstation ergonomics
  • Weak or tight muscles from lack of movement
  • Carrying heavy bags on one side
  • Stress and tension affecting muscle function
4. How does an osteopath assess posture?

Golfer’s Elbow is caused by overuse and repetitive strain of the forearm flexor muscles, leading to small tears and inflammation in the tendons. Risk factors include:

  • Repetitive wrist and finger movements (e.g. golfing, weightlifting, typing)
  • Overgripping or excessive force in activities like racquet sports
  • Poor technique or posture, putting extra strain on the elbow
  • Weak or imbalanced muscles, leading to increased stress on the tendons
5. What treatment methods do osteopaths use for postural issues?

Osteopathic treatment may include:

  • Gentle manual therapy to realign the spine
  • Soft tissue techniques to release muscle tightness
  • Joint mobilisation to improve flexibility
  • Postural retraining to correct habits and movements
  • Personalised exercise plans to strengthen core and back muscles

Golfer’s Elbow

1. What is Golfer’s Elbow?

Golfer’s Elbow is a painful condition affecting the tendons on the inner side of the elbow, caused by repetitive stress, gripping, or overuse of the forearm muscles. It’s not just golfers who experience it—it’s also common in:

  • Office workers
  • Tradespeople (e.g. carpenters, plumbers, painters)
  • Tennis players and weightlifters
  • Anyone performing repetitive wrist and forearm movements
2. What are the symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow?

Common symptoms include:

  • Pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow
  • Weak grip strength, making it difficult to hold objects
  • Pain when bending the wrist or gripping tightly
  • Stiffness and discomfort that may radiate to the forearm and wrist
3. What causes Golfer’s Elbow?

Golfer’s Elbow is caused by overuse and repetitive strain of the forearm flexor muscles, leading to small tears and inflammation in the tendons. Risk factors include:

  • Repetitive wrist and finger movements (e.g., golfing, weightlifting, typing)
  • Overgripping or excessive force in activities like racket sports
  • Poor technique or posture, putting extra strain on the elbow
  • Weak or imbalanced muscles, leading to increased stress on the tendons
4. How can osteopathy help with Golfer’s Elbow?

Osteopathy takes a whole-body approach to treating Golfer’s Elbow by:

  • Relieving pain and reducing inflammation
  • Improving circulation to support the body’s natural healing
  • Restoring mobility in the elbow, wrist, and shoulder
  • Correcting muscle imbalances to prevent recurrence
  • Providing tailored exercises and ergonomic advice
5. What osteopathic techniques are used to treat Golfer’s Elbow?

Treatment may include:

  • Soft tissue massage to release tension in the forearm muscles
  • Joint mobilisation to improve elbow and wrist function
  • Myofascial release techniques to enhance flexibility
  • Stretching and strengthening exercises for long-term recovery
  • Postural and movement corrections to reduce strain on the elbow

Repetitive Strain Disorders

1. What are Repetitive Strain Disorders (RSDs)?

Repetitive Strain Disorders (also known as Repetitive Strain Injuries, RSIs) refer to pain and dysfunction caused by repetitive movements, poor posture, or overuse of specific muscles and joints. These conditions commonly affect the hands, wrists, elbows, shoulders, and neck.

2. What causes Repetitive Strain Disorders?

RSDs develop due to:

  • Repetitive movements (e.g., typing, using a mouse, playing an instrument)
  • Poor posture or awkward positioning for extended periods
  • Lack of breaks and movement during work or activities
  • Excessive force or strain on certain muscles and joints
  • Weak or imbalanced muscles, leading to compensatory stress
3. What are the symptoms of RSDs?

Common symptoms include:

  • Pain, aching, or tenderness in the affected area
  • Stiffness and reduced mobility
  • Tingling, numbness, or weakness
  • Swelling or inflammation
  • Discomfort that worsens with activity
4. How can osteopathy help with Repetitive Strain Disorders?

Common symptoms include:

  • Pain, aching, or tenderness in the affected area
  • Stiffness and reduced mobility
  • Tingling, numbness, or weakness
  • Swelling or inflammation
  • Discomfort that worsens with movement
5. What techniques do osteopaths use to treat RSDs?

Depending on your condition, treatment may include:

  • Soft tissue therapy to release tension and improve flexibility
  • Joint mobilisation techniques to restore movement
  • Myofascial release to target tight connective tissue
  • Postural re-education to reduce strain on affected areas
  • Stretching and strengthening exercises for long-term relief

Arthritis

1. What is Arthritis?

Arthritis refers to a group of conditions that cause inflammation and pain in the joints, leading to reduced mobility and function. The two most common types of arthritis are:

  • Osteoarthritis (OA): A degenerative joint disease that occurs when the cartilage protecting the joint wears away, causing pain and stiffness.
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the joints, causing inflammation and swelling, which may result in joint damage over time.
2. What are the symptoms of Arthritis?

Common symptoms of arthritis include:

  • Joint pain and stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity
  • Swelling and warmth around the affected joint
  • Reduced range of motion or difficulty moving the joint
  • Fatigue or feeling generally unwell (more common in inflammatory types, such as RA)
  • Deformity in the joints in severe cases (especially in RA)
3. What causes Arthritis?

The causes of arthritis vary depending on the type:

  • Osteoarthritis can be caused by wear and tear due to ageing, overuse, previous injuries, or genetic factors.
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, although the exact cause is unclear. Other risk factors include family history, smoking, and gender (it is more common in women).
  • Other types of arthritis include gout, psoriatic arthritis, and juvenile arthritis, each with its own causes and risk factors.
4. How can osteopathy help with Arthritis?

Osteopathy takes a whole-body approach to treating arthritis by focusing on reducing pain, improving joint function, and enhancing mobility. Osteopathic treatments for arthritis may include:

  • Soft tissue therapy to reduce muscle tension and improve circulation
  • Joint mobilisation and manipulation to restore movement and reduce stiffness
  • Postural and ergonomic advice to minimise strain on affected joints
  • Tailored strengthening and stretching exercises to improve joint stability
  • Heat and ice therapy to help manage inflammation and pain
5. What osteopathic techniques are used to treat Arthritis?

Osteopathic treatments for arthritis may involve:

  • Gentle joint mobilisation to improve flexibility and ease stiffness
  • Muscle energy techniques to relieve tension and reduce pain
  • Myofascial release to improve mobility and relieve tight muscles
  • Stretching and strengthening exercises tailored to your needs
  • Advice on lifestyle changes, including diet, activity levels, and ergonomics

Back Pain

1. What causes back pain?

Back pain can arise from various factors, including:

  • Poor posture from prolonged sitting or improper ergonomics
  • Muscle strain due to overuse, incorrect lifting techniques, or sudden movements
  • Herniated or bulging discs placing pressure on nerves
  • Osteoarthritis or spinal degeneration, leading to stiffness and discomfort
  • Sciatica, caused by nerve compression in the lower back
  • Stress and tension, resulting in muscle tightness
  • Underlying health conditions, such as osteoporosis or inflammatory disorders
2. How can osteopathy help with back pain?

Osteopathy is a gentle and effective approach that helps restore balance to the body by improving movement, reducing pain, and preventing future issues. Treatment may include:

  • Soft tissue therapy to relieve muscle tension and enhance circulation
  • Joint mobilisation and manipulation to restore movement and flexibility
  • Postural assessments to identify and correct imbalances
  • Exercise recommendations to strengthen muscles and improve stability
  • Lifestyle and ergonomic advice to help prevent recurring pain
3. What osteopathic techniques are used to treat back pain?

Osteopaths use a range of techniques to help relieve back pain, including:

  • Spinal mobilisation and manipulation to improve joint function
  • Myofascial release to ease muscle and connective tissue tightness
  • Stretching and muscle energy techniques to restore mobility
  • Core strengthening exercises to support the spine
  • Breathing and relaxation techniques to reduce tension-related pain
4. Can osteopathy help with chronic back pain?

Yes! Chronic back pain often results from postural imbalances, long-term strain, or underlying conditions. Osteopathy focuses on:

  • Identifying the root cause of persistent pain
  • Restoring spinal alignment to reduce pressure on nerves and muscles
  • Enhancing mobility to improve movement and flexibility
  • Providing long-term strategies to prevent flare-ups
5. How many osteopathy sessions will I need?

The number of sessions varies depending on the severity of pain, underlying cause, and individual response to treatment. Some patients experience relief after just a few sessions, while others may benefit from a longer-term management plan.

Shin Splints

1. What are shin splints?

Shin splints, or medial tibial stress syndrome, refer to pain and inflammation along the shinbone (tibia) caused by repetitive stress on the lower leg. They are common among runners, dancers, and individuals who participate in high-impact activities.

2. What causes shin splints?

Shin splints develop due to excessive strain on the shinbone and surrounding muscles, often resulting from:

  • Overuse or sudden increases in activity (e.g., running longer distances too quickly)
  • Improper footwear lacking adequate support
  • Flat feet or high arches causing uneven weight distribution
  • Weak or tight calf muscles placing stress on the lower leg
  • Hard or uneven surfaces increasing impact on the shins
  • Poor biomechanics or running technique
3. How can osteopathy help with shin splints?

Osteopathy takes a holistic approach to treating shin splints by reducing pain, improving movement, and preventing recurrence. Treatment may include:

  • Soft tissue therapy to release tension in the shin and calf muscles
  • Joint mobilisation to improve ankle and foot function
  • Biomechanical assessment to identify movement imbalances
  • Exercise prescription to strengthen the lower legs and prevent future strain
  • Advice on footwear, running technique, and activity modification
4. What osteopathic techniques are used to treat shin splints?

Osteopaths use various hands-on techniques to promote healing, including:

  • Myofascial release and massage to reduce muscle tightness
  • Stretching techniques for the calves and shins to relieve tension
  • Joint mobilisation to restore proper foot and ankle movement
  • Postural and gait analysis to correct biomechanical imbalances
  • Rehabilitation exercises to strengthen weak muscles
5. Can osteopathy help prevent shin splints from coming back?

Yes! Osteopathy focuses not only on relieving pain but also on preventing recurrence by:

  • Identifying and correcting movement imbalances
  • Improving flexibility and strength in the lower legs
  • Providing advice on proper footwear and training techniques
  • Guiding you on progressive training to avoid overuse injuries

Knee Pain

1. What causes knee pain?

Knee pain can result from various factors, including:

  • Overuse injuries (e.g., runner’s knee, patellar tendinitis)
  • Acute injuries (e.g., ligament sprains, meniscus tears)
  • Osteoarthritis (wear and tear of knee cartilage)
  • Poor posture or biomechanics affecting knee alignment
  • Muscle imbalances in the legs, hips, or lower back
  • Repetitive stress from sports or work-related activities
2. How can osteopathy help with knee pain?

Osteopathy takes a whole-body approach to treating knee pain by identifying the root cause and improving overall movement. Treatment may include:

  • Soft tissue therapy to reduce muscle tightness around the knee
  • Joint mobilisation to restore proper knee and hip movement
  • Postural and gait assessment to identify movement imbalances
  • Strength and stability exercises to prevent future injuries
  • Lifestyle and ergonomic advice to support recovery
3. What osteopathic techniques are used for knee pain?

Our osteopaths use various gentle, hands-on techniques, including:

  • Myofascial release and massage to reduce tension in the surrounding muscles
  • Joint mobilisation to improve knee, hip, and ankle function
  • Stretching techniques to increase flexibility and reduce strain
  • Corrective exercises to strengthen weak muscles supporting the knee
  • Advice on movement patterns and posture to prevent further pain
4. Can osteopathy help with osteoarthritis in the knee?

Yes! While osteopathy cannot reverse osteoarthritis, it can help manage pain, improve mobility, and reduce stiffness by:

  • Improving joint function and reducing strain on the knee
  • Strengthening surrounding muscles to provide better support
  • Enhancing circulation to promote natural healing
  • Offering lifestyle guidance to maintain an active life with minimal discomfort
5. Can knee pain be caused by other areas of the body?

Absolutely! Knee pain is often linked to issues in the hips, lower back, or feet. If your body is out of alignment, it can place excess strain on your knees. Osteopaths assess the whole body to correct imbalances and ensure long-term relief.

Wry Neck

1. What is wry neck?

Wry neck, also known as acute torticollis, is a condition where the neck becomes stiff, painful, and tilted to one side. It often develops suddenly and can make it difficult to turn or straighten your head.

2. What causes wry neck?

Wry neck can develop for various reasons, including:

  • Muscle spasms – sudden contractions of the neck muscles
  • Poor sleeping posture – sleeping awkwardly or on an unsupportive pillow
  • Sudden movements – quick or jerky motions that strain the neck
  • Prolonged poor posture – looking down at a phone or computer for too long
  • Joint irritation – minor misalignments or inflammation in the cervical spine
  • Infections – in rare cases, viral illnesses can cause muscle stiffness
3. How can osteopathy help with wry neck?

Osteopathy focuses on treating the root cause of wry neck, not just the symptoms. Our approach includes:

  • Gentle manual therapy to relieve muscle tension and improve movement
  • Joint mobilisation to restore normal neck alignment
  • Soft tissue techniques to ease spasms and reduce pain
  • Postural corrections to prevent recurrence
  • Stretching and strengthening exercises to support long-term recovery
4. What osteopathic techniques are used for wry neck?

Our osteopaths use safe and effective hands-on techniques, including:

  • Soft tissue massage to release tight neck muscles
  • Gentle joint mobilisation to improve spinal function
  • Myofascial release to reduce tension in surrounding muscles
  • Stretching techniques to improve flexibility and mobility
  • Postural advice to prevent future episodes
5. How long does wry neck last?

Most cases of wry neck improve within a few days to a week with proper care. Osteopathic treatment can help speed up recovery and reduce discomfort. Chronic or recurrent cases may require longer-term management to address underlying posture or spinal issues.

Heel Pain

1. What causes heel pain?

Heel pain can arise from various factors, including:

  • Plantar fasciitis – inflammation of the tissue connecting the heel to the toes
  • Achilles tendinitis – irritation of the Achilles tendon at the back of the heel
  • Heel spurs – bony growths caused by prolonged strain on foot muscles
  • Bursitis – inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the heel
  • Stress fractures – tiny cracks in the heel bone due to repetitive impact
  • Poor foot biomechanics – flat feet, high arches, or improper walking patterns
2. How can osteopathy help with heel pain?

Osteopathy focuses on treating the root cause of heel pain rather than just the symptoms. Our approach includes:

  • Manual therapy to relieve muscle tension and improve circulation
  • Joint mobilisation to restore proper movement in the foot and ankle
  • Soft tissue release to reduce inflammation and ease pain
  • Postural and gait assessment to correct biomechanical imbalances
  • Rehabilitation exercises to strengthen the foot and prevent recurrence
3. What osteopathic techniques are used for heel pain?

Our osteopaths use gentle, hands-on techniques, including:

  • Soft tissue massage to reduce tension in the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon
  • Joint mobilisation to improve foot, ankle, and lower limb function
  • Stretching techniques to increase flexibility and relieve strain
  • Corrective exercises to strengthen the foot and lower leg muscles
  • Postural adjustments to support proper weight distribution and movement
4. Can osteopathy help with plantar fasciitis?

Yes! Osteopathy can help reduce pain, inflammation, and stiffness in the plantar fascia by:

  • Improving foot biomechanics to reduce strain on the fascia
  • Releasing tight calf and foot muscles that contribute to the condition
  • Enhancing circulation to promote natural healing
  • Providing lifestyle and footwear advice to prevent flare-ups
5. How long does it take to recover from heel pain with osteopathy?

Recovery depends on the severity and underlying cause of the pain. Some patients feel relief after a few sessions, while chronic cases may require a longer treatment plan. Your osteopath will create a personalised recovery timeline based on your condition.

Sports Injuries

1. What are common sports injuries that osteopathy can help with?

Osteopathy can effectively treat a wide range of sports-related injuries, including:

  • Muscle strains & sprains (e.g., hamstring pulls, calf strains)
  • Tendon injuries (e.g., Achilles tendinitis, tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow)
  • Ligament injuries (e.g., sprained ankle, knee ligament issues)
  • Shin splints and stress fractures
  • Shoulder injuries (e.g., rotator cuff strain, frozen shoulder)
  • Back and neck pain caused by sports impact or poor posture
  • Overuse injuries from repetitive movement
2. How does osteopathy help with sports injuries?

Osteopathy goes beyond just symptom relief—it targets the root cause of the injury, ensuring full recovery and prevention of further damage. Our approach includes:

  • Soft tissue therapy to reduce muscle tension and improve circulation
  • Joint mobilisation to restore mobility and reduce stiffness
  • Myofascial release to release tension in deep connective tissues
  • Biomechanical assessments to identify movement imbalances
  • Exercise rehabilitation plans to strengthen weak areas and prevent re-injury
3. Can osteopathy speed up recovery from sports injuries?

Yes! Osteopathy promotes faster healing by improving blood flow, reducing inflammation, and enhancing mobility. We also focus on optimising movement patterns to ensure the injury heals correctly, reducing the risk of chronic pain or recurring injuries.

4. Do I need to stop playing sports while recovering?

It depends on the injury. In some cases, rest is necessary to allow proper healing, while in others, modifying your activity can help maintain strength and mobility without worsening the injury. Your osteopath will provide personalised guidance on when and how you can safely return to sports.

5. Can osteopathy help prevent sports injuries?

Absolutely! Prevention is key for athletes and active individuals. Regular osteopathic care can:

  • Improve joint flexibility and muscle strength
  • Enhance posture and movement efficiency
  • Identify imbalances or weaknesses before they cause injury
  • Reduce muscle tension and tightness that may lead to strain
  • Provide sports-specific exercises to keep your body strong and resilient

Sciatic Pain

1. What is sciatica?

Sciatic pain (or sciatica) occurs when the sciatic nerve—the longest nerve in the body—becomes irritated or compressed. This often leads to:

  • Sharp, burning, or shooting pain down the leg
  • Numbness or tingling in the lower back, buttocks, or legs
  • Weakness in the affected leg
  • Pain that worsens with sitting, bending, or prolonged standing
2. What causes sciatic pain?

Sciatica can be triggered by various conditions, including:

  • Herniated or bulging discs pressing on the nerve
  • Spinal misalignment or joint dysfunction
  • Piriformis syndrome, where the muscle compresses the sciatic nerve
  • Degenerative disc disease leading to nerve irritation
  • Postural imbalances that put stress on the lower back
  • Pregnancy-related changes affecting spinal alignment
3. How can osteopathy help with sciatic pain?

Osteopathy addresses the root cause of sciatic pain by improving spinal alignment, reducing muscle tension, and enhancing nerve function through:

  • Spinal and joint mobilisation to relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve
  • Soft tissue techniques to reduce muscle tightness and inflammation
  • Postural correction to prevent strain on the lower back
  • Exercise recommendations to strengthen supporting muscles
  • Nerve mobilisation techniques to improve sciatic nerve function
4. How long does it take to recover from sciatica with osteopathy?

Recovery time depends on the severity of the condition and how long it has been present. Many patients experience significant relief within a few sessions, while chronic cases may require ongoing treatment and lifestyle adjustments. Your osteopath will provide a personalised recovery plan tailored to your needs.

5. Can osteopathy prevent sciatica from returning?

Yes, regular osteopathic care can help prevent recurring sciatic pain by:

  • Improving spinal mobility and posture
  • Strengthening core and back muscles to support the spine
  • Identifying and addressing movement imbalances
  • Providing ergonomic and lifestyle advice to minimise strain on the lower back

Infantile Colic

1. What is infantile colic?

Infantile colic is a condition characterised by excessive, frequent crying and discomfort in an otherwise healthy baby. It typically occurs in infants under three months old and can be recognised by:

  • Uncontrollable crying, often for more than three hours a day
  • Crying that occurs at the same time each day, usually in the evening
  • Clenching of fists, arched back, or pulling knees to the chest
  • Difficulty settling, even after feeding or changing
  • Signs of abdominal discomfort, such as bloated tummy or gas
2. What causes colic?

The exact cause of colic is unknown, but potential factors include:

  • Digestive discomfort due to an immature gut
  • Trapped wind or reflux causing irritation
  • Tension or tightness in the baby’s body from birth trauma
  • Oversensitivity to stimulation or an immature nervous system
  • Feeding difficulties, including swallowing air during feeds
3. How can osteopathy help with colic?

Osteopathy takes a gentle and holistic approach to ease discomfort and support the baby’s overall well-being by:

  • Releasing tension in the head, neck, and spine, especially after a difficult birth
  • Encouraging better digestion by improving mobility in the diaphragm and abdomen
  • Reducing discomfort from reflux and trapped wind
  • Calming the nervous system, helping babies settle more easily
  • Supporting breastfeeding and feeding posture to minimise swallowing air

Osteopathic techniques are very gentle, safe, and non-invasive, tailored specifically for newborns and infants.

4. Is osteopathy safe for babies?

Yes, osteopathy is very safe for babies. Our osteopaths use extremely light and gentle techniques, ensuring your baby’s comfort at all times. Treatment involves soft touch and subtle movements to encourage relaxation and better function.

5. How many sessions will my baby need?

Every baby is different, but many parents notice improvements after just one or two sessions. The number of treatments depends on factors such as birth history, feeding patterns, and overall health. Your osteopath will discuss a personalised plan based on your baby’s needs.

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT

By Appointment Only. An appointment can be made using the link below, calling us or by text on WhatsApp.