Walthamstow Osteopaths

Osteopathy

What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a system of diagnosis and treatment which lays it's main emphasis on the musculo-skeletal system (bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, tendons and fascia) and the way in which this inter-relates with the body as a whole. It is not an alternative to conventional medicine but is a complementary discipline which offers patients an additional treatment option for many conditions, especially musculo-skeletal problems.

Osteopaths diagnose and treat dysfunctions that occur because of injury, stress or disease. Instead of treating the symptoms, osteopaths aim to remove mechanical and other problems that can hinder the body's natural ability to repair itself. By enabling the body to function as efficiently as possible, treatment allows the body to restore itself to normal function.

After treatment an osteopath can advise on maintaining good health and avoiding those things that might be damaging. Advice is also given about posture and body use, general and specific exercises and diet if necessary.

Please note: Referral by your doctor is welcome but not essential. It is always helpful for your GP to know that you are visiting our clinic.


What happens on your first visit?

On your first visit you will be asked detailed questions about your present complaint, general health and past medical history. An examination and assessment of the way your body moves will be performed and a diagnosis made. If necessary further tests such as x-rays or other investigations will be recommended.

Treatment is based on the individual needs of each patient. It consists of a variety of manual techniques ranging from work on muscles and other soft tissues to joint mobilising and specific manipulation to improve joint movement and function. Gentle cranial osteopathic techniques can be employed especially in children and babies.

The aim of osteopathic treatment is not only to relieve pain but also to prevent the recurrence of symptoms. Once your presenting problem has settled down your osteopath will give you advice on how to best avoid a recurrence of the complaint.


What does Osteopathy treat?

Although the most common complaints treated by osteopaths are neck and back pain, osteopathy is very helpful in treating stiffness and aches and pains in other parts of the body. Osteopathy is effective for a wide range of conditions and is not "just for bones" as osteopaths treat all body tissues.

Osteopathy and cranial osteopathy can be beneficial in treating the following conditions:

Sports Injuries

Back pain, sciatica & "slipped discs"

Neck, & shoulder pain and stiffness

Hip, knee, ankle and foot problems

Elbow, hand and wrist problems

Whiplash and traumatic injuries

Ligament and muscle sprains

Shin splints

Headaches and Migraine

Tinnitus & Vertigo

Sinusitis

Respiratory problems:

TMJ/jaw disorders, post dental trauma

Mother and new baby check-up

Pre and post natal pain

Childhood ailments

Pain and stiffness associated with arthritis

Occupational musculo-skeletal disorders


About the Osteopaths

Iain Chapman and Stephen Moore are graduates of the Andrew Still College of Osteopathy and Kingston University. Their five-year osteopathic training included anatomy, physiology, pathology, neurology, biomechanics, pharmacology, clinical sciences and osteopathic principles and practice. Completion of the course led to the award of a Bachelor of Science degree in Osteopathy and a Diploma in Osteopathy.

The rigorous training of osteopaths ensures that when you visit a Registered Osteopath you will receive the highest level of healthcare. Osteopathy is recognised by the British Medical Association as a discrete clinical discipline.

Both Iain and Stephen have undertaken postgraduate training in Cranial Osteopathy with the Sutherland Cranial College. Iain is a member of the Sutherland Cranial College and Sutherland Society. They have also worked at the Osteopathic Centre for Children.

Both are registered with the General Osteopathic Council and are members of BackCare, the national organisation for healthy backs. Iain and Stephen are associate members of the Ergonomics Society and both have completed postgraduate training in acupuncture for pain relief.

Iain also holds a Masters degree in Osteopathy from the European School of Osteopathy.

Steve holds a degree in Sports Science and has eight years experience of lifestyle counselling and health promotion in the public and private sectors. He has also worked as an Osteopath on a pilot study within the NHS through The University of Westminster.


Iain Chapman and Stephen Moore