OSTEOPATHY

 

What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is an established, recognised system of diagnosis and manual treatment recognised by the British Medical Association and understands that much of the pain and disability we suffer stems from abnormalities in the function of the body structure as well as damage caused to it by disease. Uniquely, the patient is assessed from a functional, postural and mechanical standpoint and manual methods of treatment are applied to suit patients’ individual needs.

 

How does Osteopathy work?

The Osteopath uses a highly skilled and developed sense of touch called PALPATION to identify points of pain, strain and weakness throughout the body. A variety of manipulative techniques are then used including muscle and tissue stretching, rhythmic joint movements and thrust techniques to improve the range of movements of a joint. Gentle releasing techniques are also used. The Osteopath considers the whole person by examining posture and the strength and flexibility of muscles, ligaments and tendons.

 

What does Osteopathy treat?

Osteopaths can treat a very wide range of complaints including: back pain, joint problems, headaches, Sciatica, Sinusitis, work strain, frozen shoulder, trapped nerves, whiplash injury, posture problems, Arthritis, stiffness and neck tension and sports injuries.

Osteopaths can do a great deal to alleviate back pain. Most back pain is due to mechanical disturbances of the spine as well as postural strain and joint or disc problems. For headaches, the Osteopath can alleviate pain by relieving stiffness and tension in the neck. Patients suffering from the less acute stages of arthritis can be helped by the Osteopath reducing pain and stiffness.

Osteopaths can treat many conditions related to the workplace whether from sitting at a computer terminal all day or strain from heavy work. They can give remedial advice and preventative exercises.

 

Osteopathy and Patient Protection

In 1993, Osteopathy became the first major complimentary health care profession to be accorded statutory recognition under the 1993 Osteopaths Act. This has culminated in the opening of the Statutory Register of Osteopaths by the General Osteopathic Council in May 1998. Only Osteopaths who are able to show and prove they are in a safe and competent practice of Osteopathy are allowed on the register. All our Osteopaths are professional members of this obligatory body. All Osteopaths have been trained to high rigorous standards. They all have medical malpractice insurance and follow a strict code of conduct. Osteopathic patients now have the same safeguards as when they consult their GP or Dentist.

 

Booking an appointment with an Osteopath at WTC

Our dedicated team of receptionists Jan, Maureen and Beverley will be as accommodating as possible when you book your appointment. If you are unsure whether Osteopathy can help you, please ask to speak to an Osteopath. If one is unavailable, the receptionist will arrange for someone to call you. Many private health insurance schemes give benefit for Osteopathic treatment. Most companies require GP or Specialist referral. More general information about Osteopathy can be obtained from www.osteopathy.org.uk

 

Osteopaths at Wainwright Therapy Centre

 

MARK WILCOX

Mark qualified in 1978 after a four-year full-time course. He is a structural Osteopath with experience in dealing with all ages. His treatment consists of soft tissue massage and gentle stretching techniques, articulatory and manipulative procedures. Mark says: “Patient educating and understanding their condition is paramount in my approach. When a cure isn’t possible, then to live with the condition but not the symptoms i.e. pain, is the goal.” Health Schemes: Westfield, HSA, PPP, BUPA, Hospital Contributory Schemes and MIMS. Direct access to X-rays, Dexa and MRI scans can be arranged.

 

VANESSA ELLIS

Vanessa started working as an Osteopath immediately after qualifying from the British School of Osteopathy in 1994. Her interest in Osteopathy started at an early age after receiving treatment as a young girl. Vanessa says: “I discovered that Osteopathy provides a unique opportunity to treat the patient as a whole person. You deal with the mechanical problems of the body whilst also taking into consideration the patient’s way of life”. Health Schemes: Westfield, HSS, PPP.

 

PHIL  HELER

Phil’s interest in healthcare relates to his interests in nutrition, having studied Food Science and Human Nutrition (Bsc Hons) at Reading University. He has completed studies in Osteopathy (Bsc Hons) at the European School of Osteopathy. Phil’s particular interests are gentle cranial osteopathic techniques appropriate for babies suffering from a wide range of ailments such as colic and sleep problems. These techniques are relevant to adults who suffer migraine or headaches. He can also apply structural techniques to encompass a broad range of typical musculoskeletal problems. Health Schemes: Westfield, HSA.

 

 

KATE JACK

Kate’s first degree was in Biochemistry in 1987. She then worked in the food processing industry before joining a City bank where she enjoyed 12 successful years in technical consultancy. Kate then changed careers, qualifying as an Osteopath from the British School of Osteopathy in 2003. She treats musculoskeletal problems using a variety of osteopathic modalities, including, where appropriate, the more subtle cranial techniques. She is particularly interested in the treatment of head, neck, upper body and arm problems. Health Schemes: Westfield, HAS, PPP.

 

 

 

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