Lincoln Osteopathy
Jonathan Hobbs & Associates
What is Osteopathy?
Osteopathic evaluation and treatment is based on viewing the body as a whole - i.e. how the integration of the body's structures (bones, joints, ligaments, discs, muscles, tendons and nerves) function with each other within the body's system. With their hands osteopaths identify abnormalities within the human structure A breakdown of the normal working patterns of the body (unique to each person) causes these structures to function less efficiently, and become painful.
An osteopath assesses each patient's individual normal body mechanics, and will then facilitate the body's ability to heal itself through a variety of stretching, mobilizing and manipulative techniques. With added exercises and health advice, osteopaths help to reduce the symptoms and improve the patient?s health and quality of life.
The Osteopathic Consultation
At the initial consultation
you will be asked about any current health problems and relevant medical
history. This will help the practitioner gain insight into your general health,
and how your body copes with internal and external stresses.
The osteopath will then examine your body framework. Usually at this stage you will be asked to remove outer clothes. The actual examination will depend on your symptoms. For example, it may include neurological or circulatory tests. It will always include palpation, which is a way of feeling the body tissues to identify problem areas. The areas around the spine, and local to where you experience symptoms, are likely to be palpated.
The osteopath will then discuss their findings with you, and tell you what treatment is most likely to benefit you. It may involve you attending several sessions. The practitioner will use a variety of treatment approaches, from manipulation through soft tissue work and more subtle techniques, according to your needs, as well as your preference. Postural and dietary advice, and rehabilitative exercises may also be prescribed.