Osteopathy is a manipulation technique that detects and treats problems with the muscles, nerves and joints.
An osteopath (someone who is registered to carry out osteopathy) will use their hands to find and treat damaged parts of your body using gentle stretching, massage and manipulation of the muscles and joints. They may also offer guidance on diet and exercise.
This treatment can help relieve problems like back pain, neck pain and headache.
Osteopathy is suitable for almost anyone, including children, pregnant women and the elderly.
How does osteopathy work?
The main idea behind osteopathy is that the structure and function of your body are closely linked. This means that any problems or pain associated with the structure of your body could also have an effect on your internal organs.
Therefore, if problems with the structure of your body are corrected, it will ease pain on the outside of your body and help treat any illness inside your body.
An osteopath will try to identify what is wrong with the structure and function of your body and restore this to normal. Osteopaths do not use surgery or drugs.
Is it effective?
Osteopathy is accepted by many doctors and other conventional healthcare professionals, but there is little scientific evidence to prove that it is effective.
Adverse side effects or complications caused by osteopathy appear to be rare.
Is osteopathy on the NHS?
Osteopathy is only available on the NHS in some areas of the country and when it is available, you will need to be referred by your GP. Your GP may want to use osteopathy alongside more conventional treatments and medicines.
Most people pay for osteopathy treatment privately. Although referral by a GP is not necessary, patients are encouraged to keep both their GP and osteopath fully informed so that their medical records are current and complete and the patient receives the best possible care from both practitioners.
Treatment costs vary across the UK, but typically range from £25 to £50 for a 30-to-40-minute session.
How is it regulated?
In the UK, osteopathy is regulated by the General Osteopathic Council (see Useful links). It is a criminal offence to practise as an osteopath if you are not registered with the Council.