Osteopathy
Osteopathy works with the structure and function of the body, and work is based on the principle that the well-being of an individual depends on the skeleton, muscles, ligaments and connective tissues functioning smoothly together.
For your body to work well, its structure must also work well. So Osteopaths work to restore your body to a state of balance, where possible without the use of drugs or surgery. Osteopaths use touch, physical manipulation, stretching and massage to increase the mobility of joints, to relieve muscle tension, to enhance the blood and nerve supply to tissues, as well as helping your body’s own healing mechanisms. They may provide advice on posture and exercise to aid recovery, promote health and to prevent symptoms recurring. When surgery has been required, osteopathy is highly useful in returning the joint or muscles into health and in restoring movement.
Is osteopathy registered?
All osteopaths in the UK are regulated by the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC).
Osteopaths are required to renew their registration each year and as part of this process, the GOsC checks that osteopaths have current professional indemnity insurance, remain in good health and of good character, and have met mandatory continuing professional development requirements.
The title ‘osteopath’ is protected by law. It is against the law for anyone to call themselves an osteopath unless they are registered with the GOsC.