Procedures

What types of procedures do AMC osteopaths use?

Osteopaths work with their hands to perform such treatment using a variety of techniques:

· Massage and stretching techniques

· Articulation techniques - joints are mobilised by being passively taken through their range of motion

· Muscle energy techniques - releasing contracted muscles by working against resistance

· Counterstrain techniques - counter stretching restricted joints and muscles whilst in position of comfort in order to achieve release

· Functional techniques - gentle joint mobilisation

Manipulation - carried out using minimum force levels in order to maximise safety and minimise patient discomfort

The official beginning of the Osteopathic profession dates back to the mid 1800’s, however manual manipulation of the spine and other joints in the body has been around for a long time. Ancient writings from China and Greece dating between 2700 B.C. and 1500 B.C. mention spinal manipulation and the manoeuvring of the lower extremities to ease low back pain. In fact, Hippocrates, the famous Greek physician who lived from 460 to 357 B.C., published a text detailing the importance of manual manipulation. In one of his writings he declares, "Get knowledge of the spine, for this is the requisite for many diseases". Evidence of manual manipulation of the body has been found among the ancient civilizations of Egypt, Babylon, Syria, Japan, the Incas, Mayans and Native Americans.

· Visceral techniques - management of conditions affecting internal organs involving gentle and rhythmical stretching of the visceral areas

· Osteopathy in the Cranial Field

Here at AMC, each Osteopathic treatment is tailored to the requirements of the individual patient, and techniques are selected which are appropriate to the patient's needs.

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