|
Back pain As Osteopaths, we are most well known for treating back pain. 60% of our patients present with this condition. Back or spinal problems can cause pain and stiffness locally or pain that can spread into the hips, legs or arms.
Neck pain This is the second most common problem Osteopaths treat after back pain. Neck problems can also cause shoulder pain, irritation of the nerves to the arms and hands or tension headaches.
Sciatica This condition refers to the Sciatic nerve in the leg. If the nerve becomes 'trapped' by spasming muscles which compress the nerve, inflammation of a spinal joint or by pressure from a disc, it can give aching sensations down the leg aswell as pins and needles or numbness.
Shoulder pain, including "frozen shoulder" Some shoulder problems are due to inflammation or an injury to the shoulder itself. Pain in the joint may also be coming from elsewhere in the body (referred pain) ie; a 'trapped nerve' in the neck or upper back that can cause pain to spread down the limb.
|
Repetitive Strain Injuries Excessive use of hand/power tools or prolonged typing on a computer keyboard may lead to pain and inflammation of the tendons at the elbow, causing tennis or golfer's elbow. This problem can also affect the wrist and hand.
Headaches Tension headaches can be due to restrictions in the neck and the subsequent tightening of the neck muscles. Osteopathy can help to improve mobility and release this tension.
Knee pain Pain here can be caused by various structures in or around the knee, such as the cartilages, ligaments or muscles, or may be due to a problem in the low back or hip. Osteopathic treatment can help to resolve this.
Pregnancy Osteopathy is safe during pregnancy. It can be used in cases of pelvic or back pain, and for pain in the shoulders and neck, aswell as for sciatica or more general aches and pains.
Babies and Children When osteopaths examine babies, often areas of tension are found in the spine or head, which are indications that the baby is uncomfortable. As a baby cannot complain of backache or headache, they will typically express this discomfort by crying and being unsettled or irritable. In a research study conducted by Clive Hayden into the effects of cranial osteopathic treatment on babies, some parents perceived the following changes in their children's behaviour; reduced colicky crying, improved sleep, less unsettled irritable behaviour and increased quiet, happy spells.
|
