What is Osteopathy?

There are several different forms of osteopathy.

Structural osteopathy

Structural osteopathy is a hands-on, physical therapy that combines a variety of massage techniques with chiropractic-style manipulation.

Cranial osteopathy

Cranial osteopathy is a gentle but extremely effective form of osteopathy that works with the involuntary motion or cranial rhythm. This is a subtle rhythmical shape-change that is thought to occur in all body tissues.

Biodynamic osteopathy 

Biodynamic, like cranial, is a profoundly gentle but also profoundly effective form of osteopathy. It thinks of the body as fluid. Then, rather than focusing on a particular strain or injury, biodynamic osteopathy considers the health within this fluid. The body, itself, then appears to do the rest.

Visceral osteopathy 

Visceral osteopathy focuses on the body organs: the stomach; the small and large intestines; the uterus; the lungs; etc. It considers what these organs feel like, how they function and whether or not they are restricted by the tissues that hold them in place. It is very much a hands-on treatment, sitting between structural and cranial in its level of intervention. Like other forms of osteopathy, when appropriately used, it can be extremely effective, having both local and global effect.

How will Julieann, the Osteopath Clapham, approach my issue? 

When it comes to osteopathy, one size does not fit all. Osteopathy considers each person as an individual and treatment is therefore specific and personalised. As such, you may find several styles/modes of approach being used in one session. You may also find yourself going away with homework. Having studied with the ProSport Academy, Julieann likes to prescribe rehabilitation exercises that are targeted, educative and confidence building. Whatever the tool, whatever the exercise, however, osteopathy aims to help a person, an individual, recover as best they can from their bodily ills and, through individualised exercise programs, to stay recovered.

Some of the specific issue’s osteopaths are known to help with are listed here.

• The consequences from knocks and falls

• Muscular tension aches or strains

• Lower back and pelvic pain

• The aches and pains associated with pregnancy

• Tennis elbow

• Tension headaches

• Frozen shoulder

• Upper back and neck pain

• Joint pain and stiffness

• Minor sports injuries

• Sciatica or other nerve pain