History and priciples of osteopathy

Andrew Taylor Still, a doctor, preacher and a scholar of anatomy, founded osteopathy just over one hundred years ago. A man of great charisma whose unique view of the human body and how best to heal it, challenged the medical establishment of the day.

At this time medicine was in its infancy and AT Still disapproved of the use of drugs, many of which we now regard as poisons. He saw the body as an intricate machine with an innate ability to heal itself. He understood that the structure of the body is vital to its smooth functioning, and that abnormalities in the structure could create pain, disability and eventually a process of disease.

Structure governs function

Today we still adhere to this truth: successful osteopathic treatment looks at the mechanics of the whole body, not just the area causing pain. The osteopath will look for abnormalities in structure and movement while also relating lifestyle and occupation to your symptoms.

Osteopaths are trained in both osteopathy and medicine. This dual approach gives us both a scientific insight into the body and a philosophy of healing that is safe, effective and drug free.

A deep understanding of anatomy and biomechanics enables us to find the primary cause of pain. For example: neck pain may have its origins further down the spine. Although the pain is felt in one area, the cause (and therefore the solution) is elsewhere.

Osteopaths see and palpate problem areas and use manual techniques to optimize the function of the body, allowing it to work to its full potential.