Osteopaths: Mr Edward Gilbert & Louise Ellison
What is Osteopathy?
Osteopathy is described by the General Osteopathic Council as a primary care profession, focusing on diagnosis, treatment, prevention and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal disorders and the effects that these disorders may have on general health.
Osteopaths aim to restore optimal functioning and balance of the body, to give your body the opportunity to heal itself. Osteopaths work holistically to consider your symptoms in the context of your full medical history, lifestyle and personal circumstances.
Scientific evidence underpins an Osteopaths’ use of touch, physical manipulation, stretching, massage and advice to get you on the road to recovery and prevent further injury.
“Osteopath” is a protected title and you can be assured that all of the Osteopaths at Thornbury Osteopathy & Physiotherapy are registered with and regulated by the General Osteopathic Council, who set and promote high standards of competency, conduct and safety
Who can see an Osteopath?
Anybody! An Osteopaths’ patient demographic is wide reaching, including the young, the elderly, manual workers, office professionals, pregnant women, children and sports people.
You do not need a referral from your GP in order to visit and Osteopath and most patients visit an Osteopath on a “self referral” basis. However, it is advised to keep your GP informed about your osteopathic treatment in order to keep your medical records complete and to ensure the best possible care from a multidisciplinary team.
Osteopaths treat a broad spectrum of aches, pains and conditions including back pain, changes to posture in pregnancy, postural problems caused by driving or work strain, the pain of arthritis and minor sports injuries.
The following is a list detailing some of the conditions Osteopaths treat, however this is not a definitive list. If something you are suffering with is not detailed in the list below, please contact us to discuss your situation and we may be able to help or advice as to whom else may be of use to you.
- Generalised aches and pains
- Joint pains including pain from osteoarthritis
- Arthritic pain
- General, acute & chronic backache, back pain
- Lumbago
- Sciatica
- Muscle pain and spasm
- Neck pain
- Headache
- Migraine prevention
- Frozen shoulder
- Shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand pain
- Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylopathy)
- Golfers elbow (medial epicondylopathy)
- Hip, knee, ankle and foot pain
- Circulatory problems
- Cramp
- Digestion problems
- Neuralgia
- Fibromyalgia
- Inability to relax
- Rheumatic pain
- Sports injuries and tensions.
- Ergonomics and advise
What can I Expect?
Case History:
On your first visit to an Osteopath, they will take a thorough case history including information about your presenting complaint, past medical history, general health, lifestyle, hobbies and any medications your are currently taking.
Examination:
Following the in-depth questioning, you will be required to dress down to either your underwear, a gown or shorts and a top, depending on your comfort. The Osteopath will then perform a physical examination, which will include observation of your posture and composition and palpation. It may also include orthopaedic testing, active and passive movements and clinical examination.Results from the examination will allow the osteopath to formulate a diagnosis to treat.
Treatment:
Following the examination, should it be safe to do so, the Osteopath will continue onto treatment. Treatment may include a combination of a number of techniques from their repertoire including stretching, tissue massage, mobilisation, manipulation, acupuncture. They may also give exercises and offer further advice.
Follow Up Appointments:
It may be required for the Osteopath to see you more than once. At the initial consultation the conditions’ prognosis will be discussed and a plan for treatment will be created. Following appointments will including further questioning regarding your complaint and some examination, however it is unlikely to be as in-depth as at your initial consultation and the majority of the time will be focused upon treatment and exercises.
Treatment Reactions:
Following your initial treatment it is common to feel sore for up to 48 hours due to the physical nature of examination and treatment. The Osteopath will advise on the expected reaction following treatment and will further explain the course of action between your first and your following appointment; this may include exercises, ice therapy, heat therapy or a visit to your GP.
Should you be concerned regarding any reaction to treatment, or have any further questions, do not hesitate to contact us for further information.
How Much will it Cost?
An osteopathic appointment at Thornbury Osteopathy & Physiotherapy is £35 per session. Please refer to our Prices page for further information.