Osteopathy

What is Osteopathy?

For those unfamiliar with Osteopathy;

Osteopathy was developed in the 1870s by Dr Andrew Taylor Still, an American physician and surgeon.

The philosophy of Osteopathy is unique and is governed by Four Core Principles;

  • the Body is a Unit
  • the Body is Capable of Self Healing and Maintenance
  • Structure and Function are reciprocally interrelated
  • Rational treatment is based on these principles above

Osteopaths treat the body and person as a whole, offering holistic health care as a complimentary medicine. Osteopaths treat the musculoskeletal system but also address the related nervous, circulatory and visceral systems. 

In Australia opteopaths are government registered practictioners who complete a minimum of five years university training as a bachelors and masters degree. They are trained in anatomy, physiology, pathology, medical diagnoses, diet and nutrition, psychology, biomechanics and osteopathic techniques.

Osteopaths will undergo a thorough medical history with the patient and perform relevant orthopaedic testing. They are trained to assess and treat the body from head to foot as relevant, and use a range of tools to identify and treat the patient and their condition. 

Osteopathy Tools, Approaches and Conditions Treated

Osteopaths offer a range of manual treatments including direct and indirect techniques. Indirect techniques may be perceived as more gentle, and direct techniques more firm. Examples of techniques used include;

  • Soft tissue
  • Muscle Energy Technique
  • Joint articulation
  • HVLA
  • myofascial relase
  • counterstrain
  • fascial techniques
  • cranial osteopathy

Our holistic approach may also include;

  • lifestyle advice
  • dietary recommendations
  • pain management advice
  • exercise prescription (such as strengthening and stretching exercises)
  • taping recommendations
  • imaging referrals
  • GP letters
  • recommendation of allied health products
  • podiatric recommendations
  • relevant medical counselling
  • ergonomic assessments and advice

We treat a range of conditions such as those listed below and we treat all ages, babies to adults with some osteopaths undergoing post-graduate training in babies and paediatrics;

  • back and neck pain
  • sciatica and nerve pain
  • headaches and migraines
  • sports injuries
  • work injuries and R.S.I.
  • joint pain and tendonitis and muscle strains
  • pregnancy related pain
  • arthritic pain

For further information on services offered at Trinity Osteo, Kirwan, in Townsville please contact us and call 0468 493 277.