Osteopathy is a therapeutic, medical system of diagnosis and treatment that uses precise manual techniques to restore a disordered body framework. It recognises the body as a unit of interrelated systems of structure (anatomy) and function (physiology).

Pain and dysfunction stem from poor structural integrity of these systems; Osteopathy seeks to find the original cause or source of pain and treats the systems involved, restoring body structure and ultimately helping the body to heal itself.

Musculoskeletal: Your Osteopath may use manual techniques including stretching, gentle pressure and resistance, to manipulate, mobilise and reactive bones, joints, ligaments, muscles and fasciae (connective tissue).

Visceral: The visceral system of your body is made of the soft internal organs – those within the chest (heart, lungs) and abdomen (liver, pancreas, intestines) and their supporting structures.

Your Osteopath may use visceral manipulation techniques using their hands to palpate the subtle motion between an organ and its supporting structure. This will relieve imbalances and restrictions in the interconnections between the motions of organs and structures of your body.

Cranial: Your Osteopath may use treatment techniques involving intricate, precise and rhythmic manipulation of the cranial bones and accompanying membranes. This will encourage the release of stresses and tensions in the head.

Find out more

• Australian Osteopathic Association – About Osteopathy