Parkstone Osteopaths Hints, Tips and Advice

Walking More This May? How to Keep Your Back, Hips and Knees Comfortable

Fri, 01 May 2026 13:30:32 GMT

Walking is one of the simplest ways to keep moving

May is a lovely time to get outside a little more. The evenings are lighter, the weather is kinder, and suddenly a short stroll round the block can turn into a longer walk through the park, along the coast, or around the local neighbourhood.

Walking is one of the simplest ways to keep moving. You do not need special equipment, a gym membership, or a complicated routine. Just a comfortable pair of shoes and somewhere to go.

But if you have recently started walking more, you may have noticed a few aches creeping in. A stiff lower back. A grumbling hip. Knees that complain on hills or stairs. Feet that feel more tired than usual.

The good news is that this does not always mean you need to stop walking. Often, it simply means your body is adapting to doing more. The key is knowing when to ease off, when to adjust things, and when to get some professional help.

Why walking is so good for you

Walking may seem basic, but it does a lot for the body.

It helps keep the joints mo ving, encourages circulation, supports muscle strength, and can be brilliant for general wellbeing.

It is also a good way to gently build fitness without putting the body under the same level of strain as running or high-impact exercise.

For many people, walking also helps with stiffness. If you have been sitting for long periods, especially at a desk, a steady walk can help loosen the lower back, hips and legs.

That said, walking still asks quite a lot from the body. Your feet, ankles, knees, hips, pelvis and spine all have to work together. If one area is stiff, weak or irritated, another area may end up doing more than its fair share.

That is often when discomfort starts to appear.

Why aches can appear when you start walking more

A common mistake people make is increasing their walking too quickly.

You might go from very little walking during the colder months to suddenly trying to hit 10,000 steps a day. Or perhaps you take advantage of the May bank holidays and spend a whole afternoon on your feet.

Your body may not be injured, but it may not be ready for that jump in activity.

Some of the most common reasons people develop aches when walking more include:

doing too much too soon
wearing unsupportive footwear
walking on uneven ground
tight hips, calves or hamstrings
poor balance between the muscles around the hips and pelvis
old injuries that have not fully settled
spending too much time sitting, then suddenly asking the body to move more

This is why the discomfort is not always where the real issue starts.

For example, knee pain may be linked to hip control. Lower back tension may be influenced by stiff hips. Foot discomfort can affect how the knees and back move.

The body is wonderfully connected, which is helpful most of the time, but slightly annoying when it decides to complain in several places at once.

Common walking-related aches

Lower back discomfort

Some people find their lower back starts to ache during or after a walk. This can happen if the hips are stiff, the back muscles are working harder than usual, or your posture changes as you get tired.

If the ache settles quickly after rest, it may simply be a sign that your body is adjusting. If it keeps returning, gets sharper, or starts affecting daily life, it is worth having it checked.

Hip tightness or pain

Your hips do a lot of work when you walk. They help you stride, stabilise your pelvis and keep your movement smooth.

If you have been sitting more than usual, the front of the hips can become tight. When you then walk further or faster, you may feel pulling, aching or stiffness around the hip, groin, buttock or outer thigh.

Knee pain

Knees often make themselves known when walking downhill, climbing stairs, or increasing distance. Sometimes the knee itself is irritated. Other times, the problem may be linked to how the hip, ankle or foot is moving.

It is especially worth paying attention if the knee swells, locks, gives way, or becomes painful enough to change the way you walk.

Foot and ankle niggles

Your feet are your contact point with the ground, so they take plenty of load. A sudden increase in walking can sometimes lead to aching arches, heel pain, ankle stiffness or sore calves.

Footwear can play a big part here. Shoes that are too worn, too flat, too tight or not supportive enough can quickly make a pleasant walking habit feel less enjoyable.

Simple ways to walk more comfortably

You do not need to overcomplicate things. A few small changes can make a big difference.

Build up gradually

If you are trying to walk more this May, increase your distance or time slowly. It is better to walk a manageable amount regularly than to do one huge walk and spend the next three days regretting it.

Start with what feels comfortable, then build from there.

Wear shoes that suit the walk

A short pavement walk and a muddy woodland walk ask different things from your feet. Choose footwear that gives you enough support and grip for where you are going.

If your trainers are old, unevenly worn or no longer comfortable, they may not be helping.

Warm up gently

You do not need a full gym-style warm-up before a walk, but give your body a few minutes to get going. Start slower, let your stride loosen naturally, and avoid charging off at full pace from the front door.

Pay attention to your stride

Try not to overstride. Taking very long steps can increase strain through the knees, hips and lower back. A slightly shorter, steady stride is often more comfortable, especially if you are walking uphill or downhill.

Mix up your routes

Walking the same route every day can be fine, but variety helps.

Different surfaces and gradients challenge the body in different ways. Just be sensible with uneven ground if you are already sore or unsteady.

Do not ignore persistent pain

A small ache that settles quickly is one thing. Pain that keeps returning, worsens, or changes how you move is different.

Pushing through discomfort is not always the brave option. Sometimes it just gives the problem a louder microphone.

When should you seek help?

You may want to book an appointment if:

pain lasts more than a few days
discomfort keeps returning when you walk
you feel stiff or restricted on one side
your walking pattern has changed
pain is affecting sleep, work or day-to-day activities
you are avoiding walks because of discomfort
you have pins and needles, numbness, weakness or symptoms travelling down the leg

An osteopath can assess how your body is moving, look at possible contributing factors, and help you understand what may be driving the discomfort.

Treatment may include hands-on techniques, movement advice, simple exercises, and practical guidance on how to return to walking comfortably.

How osteopathy may help

At Parkstone Osteopaths, we often see people who want to stay active but feel held back by aches and stiffness.

The aim is not simply to look at the painful area in isolation. We look at how your spine, pelvis, hips, knees, ankles and feet are working together.

This helps us understand whether one area is under strain because another area is not moving as well as it could.

Depending on your situation, osteopathic treatment may help improve mobility, ease muscle tension, support better movement and give you clearer guidance on what to do next.

Sometimes small changes make a big difference.

A different walking pace, a few tailored exercises, better recovery habits, or addressing a stiff joint can help you enjoy walking again without feeling like your body is working against you.

Keep walking, but listen to your body

Walking is one of the best habits you can build, especially as the weather improves. It is gentle, accessible and good for both body and mind.

But discomfort is worth listening to.

If you are walking more this May and your back, hips or knees are starting to complain, do not wait until a niggle becomes something that stops you altogether.

A little support early on can help you keep moving comfortably and confidently.

Need help with walking-related aches?

If back pain, hip pain, knee discomfort or general stiffness is making walking less enjoyable, Parkstone Osteopaths can help assess what is going on and advise you on the best next steps.

Book an appointment with Parkstone Osteopaths and take the first step towards moving more comfortably this May.

Running the London Marathon? Here’s How Kinesio Taping Could Keep You Moving

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 10:16:48 GMT

The right taping technique could make all the difference

With the London Marathon just around the corner, thousands of runners are putting the finishing touches on their training - Sunday 26 April.

But whether you’re tackling 26.2 miles or just getting out for a few runs a week, one thing is almost guaranteed…

�� niggles happen.

A slight knee ache. Tight calves. That annoying pull in your hamstring that won’t quite go away.

The good news? You don’t always have to stop running.

�� What Is Kinesio Taping?

Kinesio Taping is a flexible, supportive tape applied to the skin to help muscles and joints work more efficiently - without restricting movement.

Unlike traditional rigid strapping, it:

Moves with your body
Supports injured or overworked muscles
Helps reduce strain while you stay active

It’s commonly used by athletes, physios, and osteopaths to keep people performing at their best.

�� How It Helps Runners

Running places repetitive stress on the body, especially in areas like the knees, calves, and hips.

Kinesio Taping can help by:

✔ Reducing muscle fatigue

Supports overworked muscles so they don’t tire as quickly.

✔ Easing pain and discomfort

Can take pressure off sensitive areas, making movement more comfortable.

✔ Improving circulation

The tape gently lifts the skin, which may help reduce swelling and improve blood flow.

✔ Supporting recovery

Ideal if you’re carrying a minor injury but don’t want to lose momentum with your training.

⚠️ When Should You Use It?

Kinesio Taping is great for:

Mild strains or tightness
Ongoing “niggles” during training
Extra support during longer runs or events

However, it’s not a magic fix.

If you’re dealing with sharp pain, worsening symptoms, or anything that’s affecting your stride - it’s always best to get it properly assessed.

�� Don’t Let a Niggle Stop You

These next few weeks leading up to the marathon are when runners are most at risk of picking up small injuries.

The key is managing them early - before they turn into something that sidelines you completely.

Kinesio Taping can be a simple, effective way to:

Stay consistent with training
Reduce discomfort
Feel more confident on your runs

�� Need a Hand?

If you’ve got a niggle that’s not going away - or you just want a bit of extra support heading into your next run - we’re here to help.

A quick assessment and the right taping technique could make all the difference.

Find out more about Kinesio Taping .

Spring Gardening Is Back — Don’t Let Your Back Go With It

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 12:44:14 GMT

Done regularly and sensibly, gardening is fantastic for strength, mobility and mental wellbeing

The first warm weekend arrives and suddenly everyone remembers they have a garden.

Lawns need cutting. Beds need turning. Pots need lifting. Fences need fixing.

And after months of doing a lot less physically, the body is expected to cope with three hours of digging like nothing happened.

Every year around March and April, I see the same pattern in clinic.

People who feel perfectly fine on Friday… and can barely straighten up by Monday.

It’s not because gardening is “bad” for you. Quite the opposite. It’s brilliant exercise. The problem is how suddenly we tend to go at it.

Why Spring Gardening Causes So Many Back Flare-Ups

During winter, most of us naturally move less. We walk less. We bend less. We spend more time sitting — at desks, in cars, on sofas. Muscles tighten. Joints stiffen.

Strength dips slightly without us noticing.

Then spring appears and we go from 10% physical output to 90% in one weekend.

Digging is repetitive and forceful.
Lifting compost bags loads the spine heavily.
Weeding keeps you bent forward for long periods.
Twisting while lifting puts pressure through the lower back.

None of these movements are dangerous on their own. But combine stiffness, reduced conditioning, and sudden volume… and something complains.

Usually the lower back. Sometimes the neck. Often both.

The Biggest Mistake I See

It’s not poor posture.

It’s not age.

It’s not “a weak back”.

It’s doing too much in one go.

Your spine tolerates load brilliantly when it’s built up gradually. What it doesn’t like is going from winter hibernation to “garden overhaul in a single afternoon”.

If you wouldn’t run 10 miles without training, don’t expect your back to handle four hours of digging without preparation.

Three Simple Ways to Protect Your Back

You don’t need a complicated warm-up routine. Just a few minutes can make a real difference.

1. Move Before You Dig

Before you start, spend five minutes gently moving your spine.

Roll your shoulders.
Slowly bend forward and back a few times.
Twist side to side.
Do a few gentle squats.

You’re not stretching aggressively. You’re telling your body, “We’re about to work.”

Cold, stiff tissue is far more likely to protest.

2. Break It Into Chunks

Set a timer if you have to.
Work for 20–30 minutes.
Stand up. Walk around. Change task.

Alternating between digging, pruning, sweeping, and lifting changes the load through your body and gives areas a chance to recover.

The worst flare-ups I see tend to come from staying in one bent position for far too long.

3. Respect Heavy Lifting

Compost bags are deceptive. So are large pots.

Get close to the load.
Bend your knees.
Avoid twisting while holding weight.

If something feels awkward — it probably is.

And there’s no prize for lifting something alone if help is available.

A Little Soreness Is Normal — Sharp Pain Isn’t

After the first big gardening weekend, it’s completely normal to feel mild stiffness or muscle ache. That’s just your body adapting.

What isn’t normal:

Pain that shoots into your leg
Sharp catching pain when you move
Pain that stops you sleeping
Symptoms that worsen over a few days rather than settle

That’s usually the point people call me.

The earlier we assess and calm things down, the quicker you’re back outside enjoying the garden instead of looking at it through the window.

Gardening Should Help Your Body — Not Set It Back

Done regularly and sensibly, gardening is fantastic for strength, mobility and mental wellbeing. It keeps you active, outdoors, and moving in varied ways.

The key is gradual build-up, not sudden intensity.
Start smaller than you think you need to.
Let your body adapt.
Increase over a few weekends rather than one heroic effort.
Your garden doesn’t need to be finished in a day.
But your back might take weeks to recover if you try.

If you’re planning a big spring clear-out and you’ve had back trouble before, it’s worth getting advice beforehand. A short assessment and a few personalised exercises can make all the difference.

Enjoy your gardening.

Just don’t let enthusiasm outpace preparation. Your back will thank you for it.

Desk Life in Winter: Why Neck and Back Pain Creeps In This Time of Year

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 16:45:08 GMT

Cold weather naturally affects how we move

By the time February rolls around, many people are feeling it in their bodies.

Not from anything dramatic — just the slow build-up of stiffness, tightness, and aches that seem to arrive quietly during winter.

We’re indoors more. We sit for longer. We move less without really noticing.

And before long, the neck starts to feel tight, the shoulders creep up towards the ears, and the lower back feels sore by the end of the day.

For people who spend a lot of time at a desk, winter can be a particularly challenging time for the body.

What Changes in Winter?

Cold weather naturally affects how we move.

Muscles tend to tighten more easily when it’s cold, and joints often feel less forgiving after long periods in one position.

Add layers of clothing, fewer walks, and darker evenings, and it’s easy to see how everyday movement drops off.

Working from home can make this worse.

Kitchen chairs, sofas, or dining tables aren’t designed for hours of desk work, yet many people use them daily throughout winter.

It doesn’t usually cause pain straight away — it builds gradually, which is why it often goes unnoticed until discomfort becomes part of the routine.

The Aches We Commonly See

During the winter months, it’s common for people to come in with problems that have been “there for a while”.

Neck stiffness that’s worse in the morning. A tight, heavy feeling across the shoulders. Lower back pain that flares up after sitting for long periods.

These issues are rarely caused by one single thing.

More often, they’re the result of posture, reduced movement, and the body doing its best to cope with repeated strain.

Small Changes That Help More Than You’d Think

You don’t need a perfect workstation to feel better, but awareness goes a long way.

Sitting slightly closer to your screen, resting your feet flat on the floor, or supporting your lower back with a cushion can reduce strain more than people expect.

Just as important is breaking up long periods of sitting.

Standing up to make a drink, stretching for a minute, or walking around the house can help reset the body and ease tension that builds up without you realising.

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Movement Matters — Especially in Winter

When it’s cold and dark, movement tends to become more purposeful and less frequent. We move to get somewhere, then sit again.

Over time, joints stiffen and muscles lose some of their flexibility.

Gentle, regular movement keeps things working as they should.

You don’t need a full workout — even simple shoulder rolls, slow neck movements, or standing up regularly during the day can make a noticeable difference.

When It’s Time to Get Checked

If discomfort keeps returning, or if pain starts to interfere with sleep, work, or daily activities, it’s worth getting it looked at.

Ongoing aches are often the body’s way of asking for support rather than something to push through.

Osteopathy looks at how the body moves as a whole, identifying where tension and restriction may be contributing to pain.

Treatment aims to improve movement, reduce strain, and help the body cope better with the demands of everyday life — including long hours at a desk.

Looking After Yourself Through the Winter Months

Winter doesn’t need to mean accepting aches as normal.

A few small changes, regular movement, and addressing problems early can make a real difference to how your body feels day to day.

If neck or back pain has become part of your routine, Parkstone Osteopaths is happy to offer advice and treatment to help you stay comfortable and moving well throughout the colder months.

A New Year… and Now a New Year

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 17:02:28 GMT

This New Year is it time to look after yourself too?

The New Year has a way of arriving whether we are ready for it or not. The calendar changes, life continues, and before long we are back in familiar routines.

For many people, the past year has been spent caring for others — family, work, responsibilities — often leaving very little time to pause and consider how their own body is coping.

If that sounds familiar, this New Year may be offering something different.

Not a list of resolutions or a push to do more, but a quiet reminder that it might be time to look after yourself too.

When You’re Used to Putting Yourself Last

It is very common to meet patients who are excellent at managing everything and everyone around them, yet struggle to give the same attention to their own wellbeing.

Minor aches are ignored, tiredness becomes normal, and stress is accepted as part of everyday life.

The body adapts remarkably well for a time, but it does keep score.

Over months or years, those adaptations can start to show themselves as stiffness, pain, reduced mobility, headaches, or a general sense that the body is no longer moving as freely as it once did.

Listening to What the Body Is Saying

Osteopathy is built on the understanding that the body works as a whole. Physical tension, emotional stress, posture, movement, and lifestyle all influence how well we function.

When the demands placed on the body outweigh the time given to rest and recovery, balance can be lost.

The beginning of a new year often brings increased awareness of this.

People notice discomfort they have been living with for some time, or realise they have been running on empty longer than they thought.

Rather than seeing this as a problem, it can be a useful point of reflection.

A New Year Can Bring New Balance

Making time for yourself does not have to mean dramatic change. Often, it is the smaller, more consistent steps that make the biggest difference.

Osteopathic treatment aims to support the body by easing areas of restriction, improving movement, and encouraging better balance within the musculoskeletal and nervous systems.

When the body is better balanced, it can cope more effectively with daily demands — whether that is work, caring for others, or simply moving through life with greater ease.

Care Is Not a Luxury

Looking after yourself is not selfish, and it is certainly not a luxury. It is a necessary part of maintaining health, energy, and resilience.

When you feel better in your body, you are often better able to support the people and responsibilities that matter to you.

This New Year does not have to be about pushing harder or setting unrealistic expectations.

It can simply be about listening, responding, and allowing yourself the same care you so readily give to others.

And Now, a New Year for You

So as the year unfolds, perhaps this is the moment to shift the focus slightly inward. Not to change who you are, but to support yourself a little better.

A New Year on the calendar — and now, a New Year in how you care for your body.

Feeling Sluggish Over Christmas? Here’s How to Stay Comfortable, Mobile & Energised This Festive Season

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 16:12:01 GMT

Over Christmas a little awareness and a few small changes go a long way

Christmas is a wonderful time of year — but let’s be honest, it can also leave many of us feeling a little heavier, stiffer, and more sluggish than usual.

Between long drives to see family, extra hours on the sofa, rich food, disrupted sleep routines, and a drop in movement, it’s no surprise the festive period can take a toll on your body.

At Parkstone Osteopaths, we often see people in early January who say exactly the same thing:

“I’ve barely moved all Christmas, my back feels tight, and I just don’t feel myself.”

The good news? Feeling sluggish isn’t unavoidable.

A few small, sensible shifts in how you move, rest, and take care of yourself can make a huge difference — keeping your body comfortable and your energy levels steady from Christmas Eve to New Year’s Day.

Here are some simple ways to look after your body over the festive break.

1. Keep Your Body Moving (Even in Small Ways)

You don’t need to squeeze in full workouts over Christmas, but gentle, regular movement keeps your joints mobile and improves circulation — which is key for reducing that heavy, sluggish feeling.

Try:

A 10–15 minute walk after meals
Light stretching before bed
Standing and moving every hour, especially during long films
Alternating between sitting on the sofa and sitting more upright

These tiny habits add up quickly.

2. Be Kind to Your Back When Sitting for Long Periods

Festive films and long chats are great — but your spine won’t thank you for an entire day on a soft sofa.

To support your back:

Place a cushion or rolled towel behind your lower back
Keep your feet flat on the floor instead of tucked underneath you
Swap the sofa for a firmer chair now and again
Change position often

Your muscles will feel far happier for it.

3. Pace Yourself With Food & Drink

Rich meals, grazing all day, and a few extra drinks can all contribute to bloating, poor sleep, and sluggishness.

You don’t need to restrict yourself — simply pace yourself:

Eat slowly so your body can signal fullness
Drink water throughout the day
Balance heavier foods with lighter options
Avoid lying straight down after big meals

Your digestive system works best when you give it a little help.

4. Prioritise Restful Sleep

Late nights, disrupted routines, and heavier foods can all interfere with sleep quality — which affects your energy, mood, and even how your muscles recover.

A few simple habits can help:

Keep your bedroom cool and dark
Avoid scrolling in bed
Try to go to sleep and wake up at similar times
Reduce caffeine later in the day

Better sleep = less sluggishness.

5. Look After Your Body If You’re More Sedentary Than Usual

Many people find they move less in December, especially if work winds down.

When you combine this with extra sitting, tension can build up in the neck, shoulders, and lower back.

If you notice stiffness creeping in, it’s your body’s way of asking for attention.

Gentle mobility exercises, stretching, and a short walk can quickly reset things.

6. Don’t Ignore Persistent Discomfort

If you head into the Christmas break with an existing ache — or you pick one up during the festivities — it’s much better to address it early.

Osteopathic treatment can help:

Reduce stiffness and tension
Improve mobility
Support better posture
Aid recovery from minor injuries
Boost overall wellbeing

Many people find that a pre- or post-Christmas appointment helps them feel lighter, freer, and more energised heading into the New Year.

Final Thoughts

Christmas is meant to be enjoyed — and you absolutely can enjoy it fully without ending up feeling sluggish, uncomfortable, or run-down.

A little awareness and a few small changes go a long way.

If you’d like some personalised advice, hands-on treatment, or support heading into January, we’re here to help.

You can book an appointment with Parkstone Osteopaths at any time by clicking here .

Can Osteopathy Help Relieve Headaches (and the Stress They Bring)?

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 17:19:12 GMT

For many people, headaches come with tension, fatigue, irritability or even anxiety

Headaches can be more than a nuisance. For many people, they come with tension, fatigue, irritability or even anxiety about when the next one will strike.

It’s natural to ask: can osteopathy help not only ease the headache itself, but also reduce the stress and cycle around it?

At Parkstone Osteopaths, we believe the answer is yes — with caveats. Below, I’ll explain how osteopathy may help, what to expect, and when to seek other medical advice.

Understanding Headaches and Their Causes

Before diving into how osteopathy may help, it’s useful to understand what types of headaches are common and what drives them. Some frequent types include:

Tension-type headaches — often described as a band-like tightness across the forehead or back of the head. These are linked to muscular tension, posture, stress, and sometimes jaw or neck strain.

Cervicogenic headaches — headaches originating in the neck structures (spine, joints, muscles) that refer pain to the head.

Migraines — a more complex neurological condition with sensitivity to light/sound, nausea, and aura in some cases.

Cluster headaches, sinus headaches, medication-overuse headaches , etc. — less common or specific causes which may not always respond to manual therapies.

Because osteopathy works with the musculoskeletal system (bones, joints, muscles, fascia, nerves, circulation), the kind of headache that tends to respond best is one with a mechanical-muscular component : tension, neck strain, joint stiffness, poor posture, and stress-driven muscle holding.

In short: if your headaches are purely vascular or neurological (e.g. severe migraines, cluster headache), osteopathy might play a supportive role, but not necessarily be a primary cure.

How Osteopathy May Help with Headaches

Here are the key mechanisms by which osteopathic treatment can support headache relief:

1. Reducing Muscle Tension and Trigger Points

Tension in the neck, scalp, upper back or jaw muscles often contributes to headaches.

Osteopaths use soft tissue techniques, stretching, myofascial release and trigger point work to ease this tension, reduce local ischaemia, and promote better muscle function.

2. Improving Joint Mobility in the Neck and Upper Spine

Stiff joints in the cervical spine or upper thoracic region can irritate nerves or strain surrounding muscles.

Gentle mobilisations and manipulations (where safe and appropriate) can improve movement, reduce mechanical stress, and ease referral pain.

3. Enhancing Postural Balance and Alignment

Poor posture — desk work, screen time, slouching — can place chronic strain on neck muscles and spinal structures.

Osteopathy often includes postural assessment and advice, working to correct imbalances, strengthen supporting muscles, and reduce ongoing mechanical load that might trigger headaches.

4. Facilitating Better Blood Flow, Lymphatics & Nerve Function

By relieving restrictions, osteopathy may help improve circulation (blood and lymph) and reduce nerve compression or irritation.

These effects can lessen local inflammation and improve tissue health.

5. Encouraging Relaxation, Stress Relief & Self-Awareness

A big part of chronic headache is the tension-stress interplay. Treatment sessions can be calming, and osteopaths often advise relaxation techniques, breathing, stress management and ergonomic change.

Helping a patient become more attuned to triggers (sleep, hydration, posture, work breaks) is part of holistic care.

What to Expect in Treatment

Here’s roughly how a headache-focused osteopathy course might go:

Initial Assessment

We’ll take your history (onset, pattern, triggers, associated symptoms), examine your posture, neck/upper back mobility, muscle tone, jaw (if relevant), and perhaps screen for other red flags (neurological symptoms, alarming signs).

Tailored Treatment Plan

Based on that, we might use soft tissue techniques, joint mobilisations, gentle manipulations, stretching, cranial (if applicable), and postural re-education.

The plan will also include home exercises, ergonomic advice, and lifestyle modifications.

Progressive Care & Monitoring

Over a few sessions, adjustments are made. If headaches reduce in frequency, intensity, or duration, that’s a good sign.

If certain types of headaches don’t respond, we may liaise with or refer to your GP, neurologist or headache specialist.

Self-Management & Prevention

A critical component: learning to manage triggers, maintain alignment, manage stress, and keep a “headache diary” to track trends.

What the Evidence Says

It’s fair to be cautious: osteopathy (and manual therapy in general) is not a magic bullet, and scientific evidence is still evolving.

Some clinical trials and reviews suggest moderate benefit for tension-type and cervicogenic headaches from spinal manipulation and manual therapy, especially when combined with exercise and behavioural advice.

However, outcomes vary. For migraines or highly complex headache types, evidence is more mixed: manual therapy may help with associated neck pain or rigidity, but not necessarily eliminate migraine attacks. In those cases, osteopathy is often best viewed as complementary, not sole treatment.

When Osteopathy Might Not Be Enough (and When to Seek Medical Help)

While many people may benefit, osteopathy is not always the full answer. You should seek prompt medical evaluation if you have:

Sudden, severe “thunderclap” headache

Neurological signs: weakness, numbness, vision changes, speech difficulty

New headache after age 50

Headache with fever, stiff neck, or signs of infection

Patterns suggestive of medication overuse headaches

Known red flags or serious underlying conditions

In those cases we may co-manage or refer you appropriately.

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Tips to Help Your Headaches Alongside Treatment

Keep a headache diary (time, trigger, duration, intensity)

Ensure good ergonomics (desk monitor height, chair, breaks)

Regular movement breaks, stretching, and gentle neck mobility

Hydrate well, manage sleep, reduce screen glare and eyestrain

Stress management: breathing exercises, mindfulness, pacing

Regular exercise to promote general circulation and resilience

The Bottom Line

Yes — osteopathy can help relieve headaches, particularly those with a mechanical, muscular or postural component, and it can help reduce the stress cycle that always seems to follow.

But it’s not a guaranteed fix for every type of headache, especially more complex or neurological ones.

At Parkstone Osteopaths, we aim to address both the symptoms and the root physical contributors, while empowering you to break the headache-stress cycle through better habits and awareness.

Fatigue: Can Osteopathy Help?

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 14:11:39 GMT

Fatigue lingers and it drains you

Most of us know what it feels like to be tired after a long day. Fatigue, however, is a different matter.

It lingers, it drains you, and it can make even the simplest tasks feel harder than they should.

Many people who come to see us at Parkstone Osteopaths mention that fatigue is a constant companion in their lives, sometimes alongside aches and pains, sometimes on its own.

So, can osteopathy help? Let’s take a closer look.

Why Fatigue Happens

Fatigue is not one single condition, and there isn’t one single cause. It can come from:

Poor sleep or restless nights
Stress, anxiety, or burnout
Nutritional factors such as low iron or vitamin D
Illness, hormonal changes, or ongoing health conditions
The way we hold ourselves at work, particularly at a desk or in front of a screen

Often, it’s a combination of several things rather than one clear trigger.

The Osteopathic Approach

When we think about fatigue as osteopaths, we’re not just interested in whether you feel “tired.” We want to understand how your body is working as a whole.

Muscle tension and posture:

Constant tightness in the shoulders, neck or back can act like a slow leak in your energy tank.

By easing restrictions and helping your body move more freely, we aim to reduce that unnecessary drain.

Circulation and drainage:

Hands-on techniques can encourage blood and lymphatic flow. This helps your body supply tissues more effectively and clear waste products, which in turn can improve how energised you feel.

The nervous system:

Stress keeps us in “fight or flight” mode. Treatment can nudge the body towards “rest and repair,” helping sleep, digestion and recovery. Many patients describe feeling calmer and clearer after a session.

It’s not about a quick fix or a miracle cure. Rather, osteopathy can be part of a bigger picture in supporting your health.

What to Expect Afterwards

Some people feel lighter and brighter straight away. Others notice they’re tired for a day or so after treatment.

This is usually the body adjusting, and it tends to pass quickly. We’ll always explain what you might expect, and if anything doesn’t feel right, we encourage you to get in touch.

Beyond the Treatment Room

For fatigue, what you do outside your sessions is just as important:

Keep well-hydrated
Aim for regular, good quality sleep
Gentle exercise and stretching
Take breaks from long hours at a desk
Pay attention to diet and any deficiencies

These small changes, alongside treatment, can add up.

When to See Your GP

It’s worth saying clearly: not all fatigue is mechanical or lifestyle-related.

If tiredness comes on suddenly, is severe, or is linked with symptoms such as weight loss, night sweats, or persistent pain, it’s important to speak to your GP.

At Parkstone Osteopaths we always take your wider health seriously and will recommend referral when necessary.

A Final Word

Fatigue can make life feel heavier than it needs to be. Osteopathy won’t make it vanish overnight, but it can help ease the load your body is carrying and give you more space to recover.

If you’d like to talk about how we could support you, please feel free to contact us here at Parkstone Osteopaths. Sometimes, a few gentle changes can make a real difference.

Osteopathy: Conditions We Can Help With

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 14:07:50 GMT

Osteopathy can help with everyday back pain to long-standing health challenges

When people first walk through our doors at Parkstone Osteopaths, the most common question is: “Can osteopathy help with what I’m dealing with?” The answer is often yes — though how we help depends very much on you as an individual. Osteopathy isn’t about chasing symptoms; it’s about looking at the whole person and how everything connects.

Below we’ve put together a straightforward overview of the kinds of issues people come to us with, and how osteopathy may offer support.

Every day aches and pains

Most of us experience some form of back or neck pain at some stage. Sitting at a desk all day, lifting awkwardly, or simply the wear and tear of life can leave the spine and surrounding muscles feeling tight and sore.

Osteopathic treatment can ease that discomfort, improve mobility, and help you move more freely again.

We also see many patients with joint pain in the hips, knees, shoulders, and elbows — sometimes linked to arthritis, sometimes caused by sports or repetitive strain.

Gentle joint mobilisation, soft tissue work and simple home advice can often make a big difference.

Headaches and tension

Not all headaches are caused by dehydration or eye strain. Tension in the neck, jaw, and upper back can also trigger headaches.

By improving the way those areas move, and calming tight muscles, osteopathy can reduce the frequency or intensity of tension-related headaches.

Nerve pain and sciatica

When nerves become compressed or irritated, they can cause sharp, radiating pain — sciatica being one of the most well-known examples.

With careful assessment, we can often reduce the pressure on those nerves, ease muscular tension around them, and guide you on posture or exercises to prevent flare-ups.

Sports injuries and overuse

Whether you run marathons or just enjoy weekend gardening, injuries happen. Osteopathy can help with strains, sprains, tendon irritation and other activity-related issues.

Treatment focuses not only on recovery but also on identifying the underlying causes of the problem — for example, imbalances in strength, flexibility, or movement patterns.

Support during pregnancy and after birth

Pregnancy places extra strain on the back, pelvis and hips. Osteopathic treatment during and after pregnancy can be very gentle, aiming to relieve pain and support the body as it adapts. Many women find this helps them stay more comfortable and mobile through each stage.

Longer-term conditions

People living with arthritis, fibromyalgia or generalised long-term pain sometimes turn to osteopathy for relief.

While we can’t “cure” these conditions, we can often help manage stiffness, improve circulation and support better quality of movement — which in turn helps reduce day-to-day discomfort.

Whole-body health

Although osteopathy is best known for treating muscles and joints, the benefits can extend further.

Improving posture, movement and circulation can have knock-on effects for energy levels, breathing and even digestion.

Many people notice they simply feel more balanced after treatment.

When osteopathy might not be suitable

There are situations where osteopathy isn’t the right option, such as fractures, infections, or some more serious medical conditions.

That’s why we always begin with a thorough case history and examination. If something needs different medical attention, we’ll guide you in the right direction .

In summary

Osteopathy can help with a wide range of conditions, from everyday back pain to long-standing health challenges. What matters most is not just treating the painful spot, but understanding how your whole body is working together.

At Parkstone Osteopaths, our aim is to relieve pain, restore balance, and help you feel more at ease in your own body. 

Can Osteopathy Help with Menopause Symptoms?

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 14:52:47 GMT

Every woman experiences the menopause differently

The menopause is a natural stage in life, but that doesn’t mean it’s an easy one.

For many women, the transition brings a whole range of physical and emotional symptoms - everything from hot flushes and fatigue to joint pain, low mood, and poor sleep.

Understandably, this can take its toll on quality of life.

While hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is often discussed as a primary treatment, many women are also looking for supportive, non-pharmaceutical options to ease the impact of their symptoms.

Osteopathy can be one of those options.

At Parkstone Osteopaths, I often see women going through the perimenopause and menopause who are looking for a gentler way to support their bodies through change.

So let’s explore how osteopathy can help:

A Whole-Body Approach

Osteopathy is a manual therapy that focuses on how the muscles, joints, and connective tissues work together.

But it’s not just about fixing a sore back - it’s about supporting the whole body to move and function as well as possible.

During the menopause, hormonal fluctuations can lead to increased muscle tension, joint stiffness, changes in posture, and even digestive discomfort.

Add poor sleep and fatigue into the mix, and it’s no wonder the body starts to feel out of sync.

An osteopathic treatment is designed to improve mobility, ease tension, and bring balance back to the body.

It’s gentle, and always tailored to the individual, and taken at your own pace.

Common Menopausal Symptoms Osteopathy May Help With:

Aching joints and muscles – Hormonal changes can make joints feel much stiffer and more sensitive than usual. Osteopathic techniques can gently improve mobility and reduce discomfort.
Lower back or neck pain – Changes in posture, stress, or muscle tightness can contribute to pain in the spine. Osteopathy aims to relieve strain and restore better alignment.
Headaches and tension – These can be exacerbated by tight neck and shoulder muscles. Manual techniques can help release this tension and reduce frequency.
Fatigue and poor sleep – While osteopathy isn’t a cure for insomnia, many people find that reducing physical tension and improving body mechanics can have a positive knock-on effect on sleep quality.
Stress and anxiety – The menopause can be an emotional rollercoaster. Gentle osteopathic care can be a calming experience, and feeling physically more comfortable often helps ease the emotional load.

A Supportive Space

Every woman experiences the menopause differently.

Some sail through it; others struggle with symptoms that affect daily life.

At Parkstone Osteopaths, the focus is always on listening carefully, treating you as a whole person - not just a set of symptoms - and working together to find the best approach for your body.

Interested in Finding Out More?

If you're going through the menopause and wondering whether osteopathy could help, I’d be happy to chat.

Whether it’s your first visit or you’ve seen an osteopath before, you’ll receive a warm welcome and personalised care at Parkstone Osteopaths.

Sometimes, just taking the time to focus on yourself - your movement, your wellbeing, your comfort - can make a big difference.

Managing Frozen Shoulder with Osteopathy: A Practical Approach to Recovery

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 11:35:05 GMT

Early treatment can often prevent the condition from becoming more severe and long-lasting

At Parkstone Osteopaths , we regularly see people struggling with shoulder pain and stiffness that affects their daily lives.

One of the more common conditions we treat in the clinic is Frozen Shoulder , or Adhesive Capsulitis as it’s medically known.

If lifting your arm, putting on a coat, or even reaching for something on a high shelf has become difficult and painful, you might be dealing with this frustrating condition.

What is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen Shoulder is a condition where the connective tissue around the shoulder joint - called the capsule - becomes inflamed, tight, and thickened.

As a result, normal movement in the shoulder becomes severely restricted and painful.

It usually develops gradually and often follows a clear pattern, moving through three phases:

Freezing Phase:

The shoulder becomes increasingly painful, and movement starts to reduce.

Frozen Phase:

Pain may ease slightly, but stiffness remains, making everyday activities difficult.

Thawing Phase:

Movement slowly begins to return, though full recovery can take many months.

Some people develop Frozen Shoulder after an injury or surgery, while others experience it without any obvious cause. It’s most common in people between the ages of 40 and 60.

How Can Osteopathy Help?

At Parkstone Osteopaths, our priority is to help reduce your pain, improve your shoulder movement, and support your body’s natural healing process.

Here’s how osteopathic treatment can help manage Frozen Shoulder:

Hands-On Treatment to Improve Mobility

We use a range of gentle, targeted techniques to ease tension in the muscles and soft tissues around the shoulder .

Carefully applied joint mobilisations can help encourage movement and reduce stiffness over time.

Every treatment is adjusted to suit the stage of your condition and your comfort levels.

Reducing Associated Tension Elsewhere

When one part of the body isn’t moving well, other areas often compensate. With Frozen Shoulder, it’s common to find increased tension in the neck, upper back, and even the opposite shoulder.

By addressing these areas too, we help prevent additional strain and discomfort.

Supporting Pain Management

Pain from Frozen Shoulder can interfere with sleep, mood, and daily life. Alongside hands-on treatment, we offer practical advice on simple home-based strategies , such as heat therapy, gentle stretches, and ways to adapt daily activities to reduce irritation.

Rehabilitation and Movement Guidance

Once the initial pain starts to settle, it’s important to begin gradual, controlled exercises to help restore strength and mobility.

We’ll guide you through specific movements that encourage safe progress without aggravating your symptoms.

Holistic Care Tailored to You

Every case of Frozen Shoulder is different. That’s why we take the time to understand your medical history, lifestyle, and personal goals before creating a treatment plan.

Osteopathy works alongside your body’s natural healing processes and is designed to complement other treatments you may be receiving.

When Should You Seek Help?

If your shoulder pain has lasted more than a few weeks, or if you’re noticing a progressive loss of movement, it’s worth getting assessed sooner rather than later.

Early treatment can often prevent the condition from becoming more severe and long-lasting.

Contact Parkstone Osteopaths

We’re here to help. If you’re concerned about your shoulder or would like advice on whether osteopathy is right for you, please get in touch.

�� Call us:

01202 734 109

�� Location:

Parkstone, Poole – easily accessible from surrounding areas.

Let’s get your shoulder moving again—safely and naturally.

Top Running Injuries – An Osteopath’s Take on What We See Most

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 16:30:08 GMT

Most running injuries respond well to osteopathic treatment

As osteopaths, we often meet patients who are passionate runners — from weekend joggers to those clocking up miles for their next marathon.

Running is brilliant for both physical and mental health, but it also comes with its fair share of common injuries.

Some problems creep in quietly after months of training. Others hit harder and faster. Either way, here’s a breakdown of the injuries we see most frequently in clinic, what causes them, and how osteopathy can help.

1. Runner’s Knee (Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome)

What it feels like:

A dull ache around or behind the kneecap, especially after long runs or when walking downstairs.

Why it happens:

This often comes down to how the kneecap tracks during movement. Weak hip muscles, tight quads, or poor foot mechanics can all throw it off balance.

How we help:

Treatment focuses on relieving tension around the knee, improving joint mobility, and working with you to strengthen supporting muscles — especially the glutes and hips.

We’ll also look at how your feet are moving and whether they’re adding to the problem.

2. Achilles Tendon Pain

What it feels like:

Stiffness and soreness at the back of the heel or lower calf — often worse in the morning or after running.

Why it happens:

The Achilles takes a lot of load when running. A sudden increase in mileage, tight calves, or a history of ankle injuries can all increase strain here.

How we help:

We look at the whole chain — from foot mechanics up to hip movement. Hands-on treatment helps reduce tightness and inflammation, and we’ll guide you through rehab exercises to gradually rebuild strength and elasticity in the tendon.

3. Plantar Fasciitis

What it feels like:

Sharp pain under the heel, often first thing in the morning or after periods of rest.

Why it happens:

Too much pressure on the plantar fascia — the thick band of tissue under your foot — usually from overuse, tight calves, poor footwear, or altered foot biomechanics.

How we help:

We work on improving mobility through the foot and ankle, releasing tension in surrounding muscles, and advising on supportive footwear and stretching routines.

It’s also important to look at how your body weight is distributed when you walk or run.

What it feels like:

Throbbing or aching pain along the inner edge of the shin bone, especially during or after running.

Why it happens:

Usually caused by doing too much, too soon. Poor running surfaces, unsupportive shoes, and tight lower legs can all contribute.

How we help:

We address tension in the calves and surrounding muscles, assess your foot posture, and help you plan a more gradual, sustainable return to running.

5. IT Band Syndrome

What it feels like:

Pain on the outside of the knee, especially during longer runs or downhill sections.

Why it happens:

The iliotibial (IT) band runs from the hip to the knee. If the glutes aren’t pulling their weight, the IT band can become tight and start to rub over the outer knee.

How we help:

We release tension in the IT band and surrounding muscles, strengthen the hip stabilisers, and address any gait issues. It’s not just about the band — it’s about how the whole leg is working together.

Final Thoughts

Running injuries aren’t just a nuisance — they can throw off your whole routine and affect your quality of life. The good news? Most of these injuries respond really well to osteopathic treatment, especially when we catch them early.

If something feels off, don’t wait for it to become a bigger issue. Whether it’s a niggling knee, a stiff ankle, or heel pain that’s stopping you from getting out the door — we’re here to help.

Parkstone Osteopaths

Helping Poole’s runners move better, stay injury-free, and enjoy every mile.

The Running Boom: A Nation on the Move 🏃‍♂️

Thu, 08 May 2025 10:26:34 GMT

Parkstone Osteopaths is committed to supporting runners at every level

Recent data underscores the UK's growing enthusiasm for running: ( The Running Boom: RunThrough on Strava's 2024 Insights into ... )

In 2024, approximately 19.4% of UK adults reported running at least once a month, with the 35–44 age group leading at 30.12% participation. ( Running Statistics UK 2025 - How Popular is Running? )
Running clubs on platforms like Strava experienced a 59% increase in membership in 2024, highlighting a shift towards community-driven running experiences. ( The Running Boom: RunThrough on Strava's 2024 Insights into ... )
The running event market grew by 23% in 2024, indicating a heightened interest in organised running activities. ( POPULARITY OF RUNNING UP 39% YEAR ON YEAR SPURRED ... )

This uptick is attributed to factors such as increased health consciousness, the mental health benefits of running, and the accessibility of the activity.

The Flip Side: Rise in Running-Related Injuries ⚠️

With more individuals taking up running, there's been a corresponding increase in running-related injuries. Common issues include:

Runner's Knee (Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome) : Pain around the kneecap due to overuse.
Shin Splints : Pain along the shin bone from repetitive stress.
Achilles Tendinopathy : Pain and stiffness in the Achilles tendon.
Plantar Fasciitis : Heel pain resulting from inflammation of the plantar fascia .

These injuries often stem from factors like improper training techniques, inadequate footwear, and sudden increases in activity levels.

Osteopathy: Supporting Runners Every Step of the Way ��

Osteopathy offers a holistic approach to treating and preventing running injuries. Key benefits include:

Comprehensive Assessment : Evaluating the body's biomechanics to identify underlying issues.
Manual Therapy : Using techniques like soft tissue massage and joint mobilisation to alleviate pain and improve mobility.
Personalised Rehabilitation Plans : Develop tailored exercise programs to strengthen specific muscle groups and prevent future injuries.
Gait Analysis : Assessing running patterns to recommend adjustments that reduce strain and enhance performance.

Tips for Runners: Staying Injury-Free ��

To minimise the risk of injuries, runners should consider:

Gradual Progression : Increase running distances and intensity slowly to allow the body to adapt.
Proper Footwear : Invest in quality running shoes that offer adequate support and replace them regularly.
Cross-Training : Incorporate activities like swimming or cycling to balance muscle development.
Rest and Recovery : Ensure adequate rest between runs to allow for muscle repair.
Listen to Your Body : Pay attention to pain signals and seek professional advice when necessary.

Parkstone Osteopaths: Your Partner in Running Health ��

At Parkstone Osteopaths, we're committed to supporting runners at every level. We’ll offer expert assessments, personalised treatment plans, and guidance to help you run safely and effectively.

Whether you're training for your first 5K or your next marathon, we're here to help you achieve your goals injury-free.

For more insights and resources, visit our Knowledge Centre.

Embrace the running boom with confidence, knowing that expert support is just a step away.

Can I Buy Kinesio Tape and Strap Up My Injury Myself? Or Is It Best Left to the Experts?

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 16:05:06 GMT

Kinesio Tape is designed to mimic the elasticity of human skin

You’ve seen the brightly coloured tape — on athletes, gym-goers, even the odd office worker with a dodgy shoulder. Kinesio Tape (or K-Tape) has become a bit of a go-to fix for aches and pains. But here’s the question we often get at Parkstone Osteopaths:

“Can I just buy some tape and do it myself?”

The honest answer? Yes, you can. But should you? Well… that’s where things get a little more nuanced.

What Actually Is Kinesio Tape?

Kinesio Tape is a stretchy, breathable cotton tape that supports muscles and joints without restricting movement.

It’s designed to mimic the elasticity of human skin, and when applied correctly, it can:

Reduce pain and inflammation
Improve circulation and lymphatic drainage
Support injured muscles
Aid posture and movement patterns

Sounds great, right? But — and it’s a big one — all of this depends on how it’s applied.

The Problem With DIY Taping

We totally understand the temptation to give it a go yourself. A roll of K-Tape from the internet, a quick YouTube tutorial, and you're good to go… right?

Not quite.

Applying Kinesio Tape isn’t just about sticking it where it hurts. The effectiveness lies in the tension , the direction , the anchoring , and the position your body needs to be in when it’s applied.

Here are some common mistakes we see when people tape themselves:

Taping the wrong muscle group altogether
Using too much or too little stretch
Applying it in a way that actually worsens posture or movement
Not knowing when not to use it (yes — there are times it’s best avoided)

Why See an Expert?

As osteopaths trained in Kinesio Taping, we don’t just look at the site of pain — we look at what’s causing it.

Maybe your knee hurts, but it’s your hips or ankles that are the problem. Taping your knee alone won’t do much unless the full picture is taken into account.

When we apply Kinesio Tape at Parkstone Osteopaths, we:

✅ Assess your injury or condition holistically
✅ Identify what needs supporting (and what doesn’t)
✅ Apply the tape with correct tension and placement
✅ Show you how to care for the tape — and when to remove it
✅ Combine it with treatment and rehab advice

In short, it’s not just about the tape — it’s about knowing why, where, and how to use it to help your body heal and move better.

But I’m Just Looking for Some Relief…

Even if you’re not dealing with a major injury, taping might be part of the solution. For example:

Supporting your posture at work
Easing muscle fatigue after training

Providing gentle support to a healing joint
Reducing swelling after a minor sprain

In all of these cases, the tape can help — if applied properly .

So, Can You Tape Yourself?

Yes. But think of it like cutting your own hair. You can do it, and it might work out OK… or it might end up a bit wonky.

With expert help, you’re far more likely to get the results you’re hoping for — quicker recovery, less pain, and better movement.

Thinking About Trying Kinesio Taping?

Whether you're dealing with a sports injury, an ongoing niggle, or just curious about what K-Tape could do for you — we’re here to help.

At Parkstone Osteopaths , we’ll take the guesswork out of it. You’ll leave knowing not just that the tape is working, but why it’s working — and how it fits into your recovery.

�� Visit us in Poole

�� Book your appointment or just give us a ring for a chat.

Let’s get you moving better, feeling better, and back to doing what you love — no guesswork, no dodgy DIY jobs.

How to Support Your Body Between Osteopathy Sessions

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 11:51:21 GMT

Taking care of your body between osteopathy sessions

Osteopathy is a great way to improve mobility, ease pain , and help your body function at its best. But what happens between appointments? Many people wonder how they can enhance the benefits of their treatment and maintain good health.

Here are some practical ways to support your body and get the most from your osteopathic care.

1. Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water is essential for keeping your muscles and joints healthy. After an osteopathy session, your body may release toxins, and proper hydration helps flush them out. Try to drink at least 1.5 to 2 litres of water per day to keep your body functioning well.

2. Keep Moving – But Gently

Staying active is key to maintaining mobility and preventing stiffness. Gentle movements such as walking, stretching, or yoga can help your body stay flexible. Avoid high-impact activities immediately after treatment, but do aim for light movement every day.

3. Check Your Posture

Many aches and pains stem from poor posture, especially if you spend long hours sitting. Try to keep your spine aligned, shoulders relaxed, and avoid slumping forward . Adjust your work setup if needed, using ergonomic chairs or standing desks for better support.

4. Practice Deep Breathing

Breathing deeply can help reduce stress, relax tight muscles, and improve circulation. Try this simple exercise: breathe in through your nose , letting your belly rise, then exhale slowly through your mouth. Doing this for a few minutes daily can make a difference.

5. Get Enough Sleep

Your body repairs itself while you sleep, so make rest a priority. Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night . A supportive mattress and pillow can also help keep your spine aligned and prevent discomfort.

6. Eat Foods That Reduce Inflammation

What you eat affects how your body feels. Foods like oily fish, nuts, seeds, and leafy greens can help reduce inflammation and keep your joints and muscles healthy.

Try to limit processed foods and excessive sugar, which can contribute to stiffness and pain.

7. Manage Stress Levels

Stress often leads to muscle tension, which can undo some of the benefits of osteopathy.

Activities like meditation, gentle exercise, or spending time outdoors can help lower stress and support your body’s healing process.

8. Listen to Your Body

If something doesn’t feel right, pay attention. Mild soreness after treatment is normal, but persistent discomfort could mean you need to adjust your daily activities or check in with your osteopath. Trust your body’s signals and make adjustments as needed.

9. Use Heat or Cold for Relief

If you experience minor aches, using a heat pack can relax tight muscles , while a cold pack can help reduce inflammation . Knowing when to use each can help ease discomfort between sessions.

10. Follow Your Osteopath’s Advice

Your osteopath knows your body’s unique needs and may suggest specific stretches, exercises, or lifestyle changes. Following their recommendations will help you maintain progress and feel your best between treatments.

Final Thoughts

Taking care of your body between osteopathy sessions helps you maintain the benefits of treatment and prevent further issues. Simple daily habits - staying hydrated, moving gently, eating well, and managing stress - can make a big difference.

If you have any concerns or need additional advice, don’t hesitate to ask your osteopath at your next appointment.

How to Keep Your Joints Healthy for Life

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 16:27:19 GMT

Osteopathy can help relieve discomfort and improve

Our joints do a lot of work every day - whether we’re walking, bending, lifting, or simply getting out of bed in the morning.

But we often take them for granted until they start to ache or feel stiff. Looking after your joints now can help prevent discomfort later, keeping you moving freely for years to come.

What Causes Joint Pain?

Joint pain can have many causes, from general wear and tear to injuries, poor posture, or underlying conditions like arthritis.

Everyday habits, such as sitting too much, lack of movement, or even carrying heavy bags, can put excessive strain on your joints, leading to discomfort and stiffness over time.

Simple Ways to Protect Your Joints

Thankfully there are a few small lifestyle changes which can go a long way in protecting your joints . Here are some easy ways to keep them healthy:

✔ Keep Moving – Regular movement helps keep your joints flexible and prevents stiffness. If you have a desk job, stand up and stretch every hour.

✔ Strengthen Your Muscles – Strong muscles support your joints and help reduce strain. Simple exercises like squats, lunges, and resistance training can make a big difference.

✔ Maintain a Healthy Weight – Extra weight puts additional pressure on your joints, particularly your knees, hips, and lower back. Even a small weight loss can ease discomfort and improve mobility.

✔ Be Kind to Your Joints – Avoid repetitive movements that overwork certain joints. If you lift heavy objects, use proper technique to reduce strain.

✔ Eat Joint-Friendly Foods – A balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish, nuts, and seeds), vitamin D, and antioxidants can help support joint health.

✔ Stretch Regularly – Stretching improves flexibility and keeps your joints moving smoothly. Try gentle stretches in the morning or after a workout.

How Osteopathy Can Help

If you’re experiencing joint pain or stiffness, osteopathy can help relieve discomfort and improve movement . Osteopaths use hands-on techniques to ease tension, improve circulation, and restore balance to your body .

We also provide tailored advice on posture, movement, and exercises to help you take care of your joints in the long term.

At Parkstone Osteopaths , we’re here to help you move with ease and feel your best.

If joint pain is holding you back, book an appointmen t today and let’s work together to keep your body feeling strong and mobile.

Understanding Kinesio Taping: A Guide to Pain Relief and Recovery

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 14:29:04 GMT

Kinesio Taping can be a game-changer

At Parkstone Osteopaths , Andy Caughey specialises in Kinesio Taping , a technique that’s transforming the way we approach pain management and recovery.

Whether you’re an athlete dealing with a sports injury or someone seeking relief from chronic discomfort , Kinesio Taping can be a game-changer.

Let’s dive into how this innovative therapy works and what it can do for you:

What is Kinesio Taping?

Kinesio Taping involves applying a flexible, adhesive tape to specific areas of the body. Unlike traditional rigid tape, Kinesio Tape is designed to move with you, offering support without restricting your range of motion. This elasticity makes it ideal for treating injuries, promoting recovery, and enhancing performance in daily life or sports activities.

How Does Kinesio Taping Work?

The magic of Kinesio Taping lies in its ability to interact with your body’s natural healing processes. Here’s how it helps:

Reduces Pain:

By lifting the skin slightly, Kinesio Tape improves circulation and alleviates pressure on pain receptors, reducing discomfort.

Supports Muscles and Joints :

The tape provides gentle support to muscles and joints, helping to stabilise the area without limiting movement.

Improves Circulation :

Kinesio Taping enhances blood flow and lymphatic drainage, speeding up recovery from injuries and reducing swelling.

Promotes Healing :

By guiding proper muscle activation, the tape helps the body heal more effectively while preventing further strain.

What Can Kinesio Taping Help With?

Kinesio Taping is incredibly versatile and can address a wide range of issues, including:

Sports Injuries : Sprains, strains, and overuse injuries.

Post-Surgery Recovery : Supporting muscles and joints during rehabilitation.

Chronic Pain : Conditions like arthritis, tendonitis, or lower back pain.

Swelling and Bruising : Reducing inflammation and improving healing times.

Posture Correction : Encouraging proper alignment and reducing muscle fatigue.

Who Can Benefit from Kinesio Taping?

The beauty of Kinesio Taping is that it’s suitable for nearly everyone . Whether you’re a professional athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone dealing with everyday aches and pains, this technique can provide relief and support tailored to your needs

Why Choose Parkstone Osteopaths?

At Parkstone Osteopaths , Andy Caughey brings expertise and a patient-centred approach to every treatment.

With a deep understanding of Kinesio Taping and its benefits, Andy ensures that each application is customised to your unique condition and goals.

His skilful technique means you’ll experience maximum benefits, whether you’re managing pain or striving for peak performance.

Ready to Discover the Benefits of Kinesio Taping?

If you’re curious about how Kinesio Taping can help you, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. At Parkstone Osteopaths , we’re committed to helping you feel your best with tailored treatments and compassionate care.

Click here to book your appointment today. Let’s work together to support your recovery, relieve your pain, and enhance your wellbeing.

How Osteopathy Can Help You Recover from Sports Injuries and Get Back on Track

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 12:36:35 GMT

Osteopathy is a tailored, holistic approach

Sports injuries can happen to anyone, whether you're a professional athlete or someone who enjoys a casual game of football on the weekend.

These injuries can range from sprains and strains to more chronic issues like tendonitis or joint pain.

At Parkstone Osteopaths , we understand how frustrating it can be to deal with an injury that keeps you from doing what you love. That’s where osteopathy comes in – offering a tailored, holistic approach to recovery and performance enhancement.

What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a hands-on , holistic therapy that focuses on improving the body’s overall function by treating the musculoskeletal system.

It combines manual techniques, like stretching and manipulation, with advice on exercise, posture, and lifestyle adjustments to support recovery and prevent further injuries.

Common Sports Injuries Osteopathy Can Help With

Us Osteopaths are trained to assess and treat a wide range of sports injuries, including:

Sprains and strains: Common in ankles, knees, and wrists.

Back and neck pain : Often caused by poor form or overuse.

Tendonitis: Inflammation due to repetitive movements in sports like tennis or running.

Joint injuries: Knees, shoulders, and hips can suffer from trauma or wear and tear.

Overuse injuries : Including shin splints or runner’s knee.

How Osteopathy Helps You Recover

Pain Relief & Inflammation Reduction

Osteopaths use gentle, hands-on techniques to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation around the injured area. By restoring proper alignment and improving circulation, your body’s natural healing processes can work more effectively.

Restoring Mobility & Flexibility

After an injury, stiffness and restricted movement are common. Osteopathy focuses on loosening tight muscles and improving joint mobility, helping you regain your range of motion and flexibility.

Preventing Future Injuries

An osteopath doesn’t just treat the symptoms; they address the root cause of the issue. This could include correcting imbalances, improving posture, or identifying weaknesses in your movement patterns. These proactive steps help reduce the risk of future injuries.

Optimising Recovery Time

Osteopathy supports quicker recovery by promoting blood flow, reducing muscle tension, and helping your body return to balance. Combined with tailored exercises, it ensures you’re back in action as soon as possible.

Osteopathy for Enhanced Performance

Osteopathy isn’t just about recovering from injuries – it’s also a fantastic tool for enhancing your sports performance. By addressing underlying weaknesses, improving your body mechanics, and optimising your movement patterns, osteopathy can help you perform at your best while reducing the risk of injury.

Why Choose Parkstone Osteopaths?

At Parkstone Osteopaths , we specialise in treating sports injuries with a comprehensive and compassionate approach.

Our experienced team will assess your specific needs, design a personalised treatment plan, and work with you to achieve your goals – whether it’s returning to your favourite sport or reaching new performance heights.

Ready to Get Back on Track?

Don’t let a sports injury hold you back. With the right care and guidance, you can recover fully and even come back stronger than before.

Contact Parkstone Osteopaths today to book an appointment and start your journey to recovery.

Top Tips for Avoiding Back and Shoulder Pain While Working From Home

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 14:37:56 GMT

Many people working from home are experiencing a new set of physical challenges

With more people working from home than ever before, many are experiencing a new set of physical challenges, particularly back and shoulder pain .

Spending long hours at makeshift desks or on the sofa can lead to poor posture and strain on muscles.

While there are simple steps you can take to avoid discomfort , if the pain becomes persistent, it may be time to seek professional help from an Osteopath.

In fact, since the shift to remote work, there has been a noticeable rise in people visiting Osteopaths for musculoskeletal issues.

If you're struggling with aches and pains while working from home, here are some top tips to help yourself , and why Osteopathy might be the solution if the problem continues.

1. Set Up a Proper Workspace

One of the biggest contributors to back and shoulder pain is a poorly arranged workspace. Sitting hunched over a laptop on the sofa or dining room table can wreak havoc on your posture. To avoid this:

Use a Desk and Chair:

Invest in a proper desk and ergonomic chair that supports your lower back.

Adjust Screen Height:

Make sure your screen is at eye level to prevent neck strain. You can use a laptop stand or books to raise it.

Support Your Feet:

Your feet should be flat on the ground or supported by a footrest to keep your body aligned.

2. Take Frequent Breaks

Sitting for hours at a time can lead to stiffness and discomfort, especially in the back and shoulders. Combat this by:

Moving Every 30 Minutes:

Get up, stretch, and walk around regularly to avoid staying in one position for too long.

Stretching Exercises:

Simple stretches targeting your shoulders, neck, and lower back can keep your muscles loose and prevent pain from building up.

One effective exercise is to stretch your arms overhead, take a deep breath, and hold for a few seconds before slowly releasing.

This relieves tension in the upper back and shoulders.

3. Watch Your Posture

Maintaining good posture is essential when sitting for long periods. Slouching can strain your muscles and lead to long-term issues. To maintain proper posture:

Sit Upright:

Keep your back straight and shoulders relaxed , not hunched forward.

Engage Your Core:

Your core muscles can support your back, so try to keep them slightly engaged while sitting.

Avoid Crossing Your Legs:

This can lead to hip misalignment and back strain. Keep your feet flat on the ground or on a footrest.

4. Stay Active

Working from home often means less movement, which can contribute to muscle tension and pain.

Incorporate some form of exercise into your day to keep your body active and your muscles strong:

Go for a Walk:

A quick walk during lunch breaks can do wonders for your back and overall well-being.

Strengthening Exercises:

Regular exercises that strengthen your core and back muscles will improve your posture and prevent pain.

Activities like Yoga, Pilates, or bodyweight exercises are particularly beneficial.

5. Use Proper Support

If you're spending long hours sitting, using the right support can make a big difference:

Lumbar Support:

Add a cushion or a specially designed lumbar pillow to your chair to support the natural curve of your lower back.

Wrist Support:

Use a wrist rest or ergonomic mouse pad to prevent strain on your wrists and shoulders while typing or using the mouse.

When to See an Osteopath

If you've tried adjusting your workspace, improving your posture, and incorporating breaks and stretches, but you're still experiencing persistent pain, it might be time to consider seeing an Osteopath.

Osteopaths specialise in treating musculoskeletal issues, using hands-on techniques to relieve tension, improve mobility, and restore function.

Many patients have reported an increase in back, shoulder, and neck pain since switching to remote work.

Osteopathy has become an i ncreasingly popular solution to these problems.

Why Osteopathy Can Help

An Osteopath can assess your posture, mobility, and areas of discomfort to identify the root cause of your pain.

They use a combination of stretching, massage, and joint manipulation techniques to relieve tension and improve movement in the affected areas.

Osteopathy is not just about treating pain but also about preventing it by addressing imbalances in your body’s structure.

If left untreated, poor posture and repetitive strain can lead to more severe issues such as chronic pain, reduced mobility, and even long-term damage to your spine and joints.

Conclusion: Prevention and Professional Help

Working from home doesn’t have to come with the pain of back and shoulder aches.

By setting up a proper workspace, taking regular breaks, maintaining good posture, staying active, and using the right support, you can reduce the chances of discomfort.

However, if pain persists, it’s important to consult an osteopath. The rise in remote work has led to more people seeking Osteopathic treatment for these very issues, so don’t hesitate to get help if needed.

Your body deserves to feel good, no matter where you're working!

How Osteopathy Can Help with Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 14:53:55 GMT

Osteopathy is one of the various treatments that can help manage its symptoms

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterised by widespread pain, fatigue, and tenderness in the muscles, joints, and soft tissues.

For those living with this condition, it can feel overwhelming as it impacts daily life in many ways.

While fibromyalgia doesn't have a known cure, there are various treatments that can help manage its symptoms , and osteopathy is one such option that offers significant relief.

We have seen many patients with fibromyalgia benefit from osteopathic treatment.

Here’s how osteopathy can help:

1. Pain Relief

One of the primary symptoms of fibromyalgia is chronic pain, which can affect various parts of the body.

Osteopathy works by gently manipulating the musculoskeletal system - joints, muscles, and tissues - to alleviate pain and tension.

Through soft tissue techniques and stretching, osteopaths can help reduce the severity of muscle aches and improve overall body function . This can lead to an increase in comfort and a decrease in pain over time.

2. Improving Joint Mobility

Fibromyalgia often leads to stiffness and reduced mobility in the joints. Osteopaths focus on restoring the natural range of motion in your joints through targeted, gentle movements.

By improving joint function, patients often find they have less stiffness and better mobility, allowing them to move more freely and experience less discomfort.

3. Reducing Muscle Tension and Stress

Stress can aggravate fibromyalgia symptoms. Osteopathic treatment can help reduce muscle tension caused by stress, using techniques like soft tissue massage and myofascial release.

These treatments not only help with physical symptoms but also provide a sense of relaxation and emotional relief. Reducing muscle tension can improve sleep quality and help patients feel more balanced and energised.

4. Enhancing Circulation

Osteopathy also focuses on improving blood flow and lymphatic drainage. This helps to reduce inflammation and promote healing by ensuring that oxygen and nutrients are delivered more effectively to the tissues.

Good circulation is essential for muscle health, and by enhancing it, osteopathy can help with the fatigue and aches commonly experienced by fibromyalgia patients.

5. Tailored Treatment Plans

At Parkstone Osteopaths, we understand that each person with fibromyalgia experiences it differently.

Our approach is holistic, and we tailor treatment plans to the individual needs of each patient. By taking into account your specific symptoms, we can create a personalised treatment strategy aimed at reducing your pain and improving your quality of life.

6. Supporting Overall Well-being

Fibromyalgia doesn’t just affect the body - it affects the mind as well. Chronic pain and fatigue can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and frustration. Osteopathy can be a great complement to other treatments aimed at improving mental health.

By addressing physical symptoms, osteopathic treatment helps reduce the emotional strain caused by the condition, allowing patients to feel more in control and less overwhelmed.

Why Choose Osteopathy for Fibromyalgia?

Osteopathy is a non-invasive, drug-free approach to managing fibromyalgia symptoms. It works by addressing the root causes of discomfort and promoting the body's natural ability to heal itself.

Osteopaths take a holistic view, considering not just the symptoms but also lifestyle factors, posture, and overall health. This comprehensive approach makes osteopathy an ideal choice for managing fibromyalgia.

Get in Touch

If you or someone you know is living with fibromyalgia and looking for an alternative way to manage symptoms, osteopathy might be the solution.

Andy Caughey, Parkstone Osteopaths, is dedicated to helping you improve your well-being and live with less pain.

To learn more or book an appointment, click here .

We’re here to support you every step of the way.

By choosing osteopathy, you’re not just addressing your fibromyalgia symptoms - you’re taking steps toward a better, healthier life.

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Beyond Bones: The Full Scope of Osteopathy

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 11:06:58 GMT

Osteopathy focuses on the entire body

When people hear the word “osteopath,” they often think of someone who treats bones, joints, and muscles. While that’s certainly a significant part of what we do, the scope of osteopathy goes far beyond simply addressing aches and pains .

Osteopathy is a holistic approach to healthcare, focused on the entire body and how its systems work together to achieve overall well-being.

The Holistic Approach

Osteopathy is rooted in the belief that the body has an innate ability to heal itself. As osteopaths, we don’t just treat symptoms ; we look for the root cause of the problem.

This means considering the entire body — its structure, functions, and how different systems interact with one another.

For example, if you come in with lower back pain, we’ll not only examine your back but also consider factors like your posture, lifestyle, and even stress levels.

By understanding the underlying causes, we can develop a more effective treatment plan that addresses the issue at its source.

Beyond Joints and Muscles

Osteopathy is not just about treating joints and muscles; it’s about improving the function of the entire body. This can include:

Circulatory System:

Ensuring that blood flows efficiently throughout the body, delivering essential nutrients and oxygen to tissues and organs.

Nervous System:

Helping the nervous system function optimally by addressing any mechanical issues that could be affecting nerve pathways.

Lymphatic System:

Supporting the lymphatic system in removing toxins and waste from the body, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy immune system.

Digestive System:

Improving digestive health by addressing issues related to the spine, ribs, and abdomen that could be impacting the digestive organs.

Treating the Whole Person

One of the key principles of osteopathy is treating the whole person , not just the symptoms. This means considering all aspects of a patient’s life, including physical, emotional, and environmental factors.

For instance, chronic stress can lead to muscle tension and pain, so part of our approach may involve helping you manage stress through lifestyle changes, relaxation techniques, or other supportive therapies.

Preventative Care

Osteopathy is not just about treating existing conditions; it’s also about prevention . By keeping the body in balance and addressing minor issues before they become major problems, we help our patients maintain optimal health and avoid future injuries or illnesses.

Regular osteopathic treatments can improve mobility, enhance circulation, boost the immune system, and even improve sleep quality. By supporting the body’s natural healing processes , osteopathy can help you lead a healthier, more active life.

A Collaborative Approach

Osteopaths often work closely with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care.

Whether it’s collaborating with your GP, physiotherapist, or nutritionist, we’re committed to ensuring you receive the best possible care tailored to your individual needs .

Conclusion

Osteopathy is much more than just treating bones and joints. It’s a holistic, patient-centered approach to healthcare that considers the whole body and its interconnected systems. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, recovering from an injury, or simply looking to improve your overall well-being, osteopathy offers a path to better health that goes beyond the surface.

So, the next time you think of osteopathy, remember it’s about more than just bones - it’s about achieving balance and harmony within your entire body.

If you’re interested in learning more or scheduling a consultation , don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you on your journey to better health.

Will I Feel Better Straightaway After My Osteopathic Treatment?

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 13:59:44 GMT

The desire for immediate relief from pain

As an osteopath, one of the most common questions I hear from new patients is, "Will I feel better straightaway after my osteopathic treatment?" The desire for immediate relief from pain and discomfort is understandable, especially when you’ve been enduring it for some time.

However, the answer to this question isn’t a straightforward yes or no. The effects of osteopathic treatment can vary based on several factors, including the nature of your condition, your overall health, and how your body responds to treatment. Let’s delve into what you can expect during and after an osteopathic session.

Understanding Osteopathic Treatment

Osteopathy is a holistic approach to healthcare that focuses on the musculoskeletal system . It involves manual techniques such as stretching, gentle pressure, and resistance to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and promote overall wellness. Unlike treatments that target symptoms, osteopathy aims to address the root cause of discomfort, considering how different parts of the body interact and affect one another.

Immediate Reactions Post-Treatment

After your first osteopathic session, it's not uncommon to experience a range of immediate reactions. Some patients report feeling a sense of relief and relaxation right away . This can be due to the release of muscle tension and improved blood circulation. You might notice a decrease in pain or an increase in mobility as your body begins to realign and function more effectively.

However, it’s also normal to feel some discomfort or soreness after treatment. This is similar to the feeling you might have after exercising for the first time in a while. Your muscles and tissues are adjusting to the changes made during the session, and this can result in temporary soreness. This reaction is generally short-lived and can be managed with ice, rest, hydration, and gentle movement.

The Healing Process

Osteopathic treatment initiates a healing process within your body. While some patients experience immediate relief, for others, the benefits of osteopathy may unfold gradually over several days or weeks. Your body needs time to adapt to the adjustments and to begin the process of healing itself. This is especially true for chronic conditions or long-standing issues where the body has been compensating for imbalances over a prolonged period.

Follow-Up and Maintenance

It's important to understand that one session may not be enough to resolve complex or chronic conditions. Osteopathy often involves a series of treatments to achieve the best results. During follow-up sessions, your osteopath will monitor your progress and make further adjustments as needed. They will also provide advice on exercises, stretches, and lifestyle changes to support your recovery and prevent future issues.

Individual Variability

Every patient is unique, and so is their response to osteopathic treatment. Factors such as age, general health, the severity of the condition, and even stress levels can influence how quickly you feel better. Communication with your osteopath is key. Discuss any concerns or reactions you have post-treatment, so they can tailor their approach to best suit your needs.

Self-Care Post-Treatment

To maximise the benefits of your osteopathic treatment, consider incorporating some self-care practices:

1. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps flush out toxins released during treatment.

2. Rest: Allow your body time to recover by getting enough sleep and avoiding strenuous activities immediately after your session.

3. Gentle Movement: Engage in light activities such as walking or stretching to keep your muscles active and promote circulation.

4. Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Maintain a balanced diet, practice good posture, and manage stress through relaxation techniques or hobbies you enjoy.

Will you feel better straightaway after your osteopathic treatment? The answer varies. Some patients experience immediate relief, while for others, the benefits emerge gradually. Osteopathy is a process that encourages your body to heal itself , and this can take time. By working closely with your osteopath and following their advice, you can optimise your recovery and move towards better health and well-being.

At Parkstone Osteopaths, our goal is to provide personalised care that addresses your unique needs and helps you achieve lasting relief. If you have any questions or concerns about your treatment, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to support you on your journey to better health.

How Osteopathy Can Help with Joint Pain

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 14:49:04 GMT

Addressing the root cause of your discomfort

Joint pain is a common issue that affects people of all ages and can significantly impact your quality of life. Whether it's caused by arthritis, injury, or overuse, finding effective relief is essential.

Andy Caughey of Parkstone Osteopaths, specialises in treating joint pain through osteopathy, a holistic approach that aims to address the root cause of your discomfort and restore your body's natural balance .

Understanding Osteopathy

Osteopathy is a form of manual therapy that focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing musculoskeletal issues. It is based on the principle that the body's structure and function are closely related, and by treating the structure, we can enhance the function. Osteopaths use a range of techniques, including stretching, massage, and manipulation , to improve mobility, reduce pain, and promote overall health.

How Osteopathy Helps with Joint Pain

1. Improving Joint Mobility:

Osteopaths use gentle manipulation techniques to improve the range of motion in your joints. By realigning the joint structures and reducing stiffness , osteopathy can help enhance mobility and ease pain.

Reducing Inflammation:

Inflammation is a common cause of joint pain. Osteopathic techniques such as soft tissue massage can help reduce inflammation by improving blood flow and promoting the drainage of excess fluids from the affected area.

Enhancing Circulation:

Improved circulation is crucial for joint health. Osteopathy can stimulate blood flow to the joints, ensuring they receive the necessary nutrients and oxygen to heal and function properly.

Alleviating Muscle Tension:

Muscle tension around the joints can exacerbate pain. Osteopaths use specific techniques to relax and release tight muscles , thereby reducing the pressure on the joints and alleviating pain.

Addressing Underlying Causes:

Osteopathy takes a holistic approach to treatment , meaning we don't just focus on the symptoms but also on the underlying causes of your joint pain . Whether it's poor posture, an old injury, or lifestyle factors, we work to identify and address these issues to prevent future problems.

Common Conditions Treated with Osteopathy

Arthritis:

Osteopathy can help manage arthritis symptoms by reducing inflammation, improving joint function, and alleviating pain.

Sports Injuries:

Joint injuries from sports can benefit from osteopathic treatment, which aids in faster recovery and prevents further injury.

Repetitive Strain Injuries:

Conditions like tennis elbow or carpal tunnel syndrome, which involve joint pain from repetitive motions , can be effectively treated with osteopathy.

Postural Problems:

Poor posture can lead to joint pain, especially in the spine, hips, and knees. Osteopathy helps correct postural imbalances and relieve associated pain.

What to Expect During an Osteopathy Session

When you visit Parkstone Osteopaths, Andy Caughey our skilled practitioner will start with a thorough assessment of your medical history and a physical examination. This helps to understand the root cause of your joint pain and develop a personalised treatment plan.

The treatment sessions typically involve a combination of hands-on techniques tailored to your specific needs. Our goal is to provide immediate relief while also promoting long-term joint health .

Conclusion

If you're struggling with joint pain, osteopathy offers a safe and effective solution. Parkstone Osteopaths is committed to helping you achieve pain-free movement and a better quality of life through our comprehensive osteopathic treatments. Don't let joint pain hold you back - schedule an appointment with us today and take the first step towards a healthier, more comfortable future.

Understanding Kinesio Taping and Its Everyday Benefits

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 16:06:20 GMT

Enhancing Pain Relief, Recovery, and Performance with Kinesio Taping

Kinesio Taping, a therapeutic taping method developed by Dr. Kenzo Kase , is used by osteopaths and physiotherapists worldwide. This elastic tape, designed to mimic the skin's elasticity, supports and stabilises muscles and joints without restricting movement.

What is Kinesio Taping?

Kinesio Tape is a thin, elastic cotton strip with an acrylic adhesive. Unlike traditional athletic tape, which is rigid and restricts movement, Kinesio Tape allows for a full range of motion. It's water-resistant and can be worn for several days, providing continuous therapeutic benefits .

How Kinesio Taping Helps

1. Pain Relief:

Mechanism: Kinesio Tape lifts the skin slightly, reducing pressure on pain receptors.

Benefit: This alleviates discomfort from muscle tension, injuries, and overuse.

2. Reduced Swelling and Inflammation:

Mechanism: The tape creates space for lymphatic drainage channels.

Benefit: This helps reduce fluid buildup and promotes faster healing of bruises and inflammation.

3. Enhanced Muscle Support:

Mechanism: Kinesio Tape stabilises muscles and joints without restricting movement.

Benefit: It can prevent overextension and reduce the risk of injuries, especially in physically demanding activities.

4. Improved Posture and Alignment:

Mechanism: The tape can be applied to encourage proper posture.

Benefit: This can help alleviate back and neck pain related to poor posture.

5. Performance Enhancement:

Mechanism: The tape facilitates muscle contraction and movement efficiency.

Benefit: Athletes and active individuals can experience improved performance and reduced fatigue.

Everyday Uses of Kinesio Taping

Sports and Exercise: Enhances athletic performance and aids in injury prevention.

Work-Related Strain: Supports muscles during repetitive or strenuous activities, reducing the risk of strain.

Post-Surgery Recovery: Assists in reducing swelling and provides support during the healing process.

Chronic Conditions: Offers ongoing relief and support for conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia.

Conclusion

Kinesio Taping is a versatile and effective tool for managing pain, improving function, and enhancing quality of life. Whether you are an athlete, a desk worker, or someone recovering from an injury, Kinesio Taping can provide the support and relief you need.

For more personalised advice and treatment, contact Andy Caughey today to discover how Kinesio Taping can benefit your everyday life.

Unlocking the Secrets of Holistic Healing: Your Osteopath's Guide to Total Wellness

Mon, 13 May 2024 13:07:01 GMT

Uncovering the root cause of your discomfort

As we embrace the changing seasons and the promise of renewal, it’s the perfect time to delve into the depths of holistic healing. As your trusted osteopath, I am committed to not only treating your symptoms but also uncovering the root causes of your discomfort to facilitate lasting wellness.

Listen to the signals

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s all too easy to neglect our bodies’ signals and push through pain, stress, and fatigue . However, this approach often leads to further imbalances and ultimately undermines our overall health and vitality. That’s where osteopathy shines — by offering a holistic approach to healthcare that considers the interconnectedness of the body, mind, and spirit .

Why choose an Osteopath?

So, what exactly sets osteopathy apart? At its core, osteopathic medicine emphasises the body’s innate ability to heal itself when given the right support and conditions. By using a combination of hands-on manual techniques, gentle manipulation, and personalised treatment plans, Osteopaths aim to restore balance , improve mobility, and enhance the body’s natural healing mechanisms .

Treating your body as a whole

One of the key principles of osteopathy is the concept of treating the body as a whole, rather than focusing solely on isolated symptoms. This means that during your sessions, we will not only address your immediate concerns but also take into account your lifestyle, posture, diet, and emotional well-being. By considering these interconnected factors, we can develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and goals .

A little homework

In addition to hands-on manipulation, osteopathy also emphasises the importance of patient education and empowerment. During your sessions, I will take the time to explain the underlying causes of your symptoms and offer practical advice on how you can support your body’s healing process between visits. Whether it’s incorporating specific exercises, improving your posture, or making dietary changes, small lifestyle modifications can have a profound impact on your overall well-being.

Looking after #1

As we navigate the complexities of modern life, it’s essential to prioritise self-care and proactive health management. By partnering with an osteopath, you can take proactive steps towards achieving optimal health and vitality . Together, we will embark on a journey of discovery, unlocking the secrets of holistic healing and nurturing your body, mind, and spirit.

Get in touch with me

I want to express my gratitude for entrusting me with your health and well-being. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can work towards a healthier, happier you.

How Kinesio Taping Can Help You Conquer the London Marathon

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 11:19:22 GMT

Let's explore how Kinesio Taping can help you for your big marathon day

With the London Marathon fast approaching, runners are gearing up for the ultimate test of endurance and determination . As the miles add up in training and anticipation builds for the big day, it's essential to consider strategies to o ptimise performance and minimise the risk of injury . One such strategy gaining traction among runners is the use of Kinesio Taping . Let's explore how Kinesio Taping can help you navigate through the training process and support you on the day of the marathon.

1. Injury Prevention during Training:

The demands of marathon training can take a toll on the body, increasing the risk of overuse injuries such as shin splints, IT band syndrome, and runner's knee. Kinesio Taping can provide targeted support to vulnerable areas , helping to alleviate strain and reduce the likelihood of injury. By applying Kinesio Tape to key muscle groups and joints, runners can maintain proper alignment and biomechanics, minimising the impact of repetitive movements and prolonged training sessions.

2. Pain Relief and Recovery:

During the rigorous training regimen leading up to the marathon, many runners experience aches, pains, and minor injuries. Kinesio Taping can offer relief from discomfort and promote faster recovery times. The gentle lifting action of the tape on the skin helps to reduce pressure on pain receptors , while also improving circulation and lymphatic drainage. Whether it's easing the discomfort of a tight IT band or supporting fatigued muscles, Kinesio Tape can provide much-needed relief to runners throughout their training journey.

3. Enhanced Performance on Race Day:

As the excitement builds for the London Marathon, runners are eager to perform at their best on race day. Kinesio Taping can play a crucial role in optimising performance by providing support and stability where it's needed most. By applying Kinesio Tape to key muscle groups such as the calves, quadriceps, and hamstrings, runners can improve biomechanical efficiency and reduce muscle fatigue. The tape's elastic properties allow for a full range of motion, enabling runners to maintain proper form and technique throughout the gruelling 26.2-mile course.

4. Mental Boost and Confidence:

Beyond its physical benefits, Kinesio Taping can also provide a mental boost to runners as they tackle the challenges of marathon training and racing. The knowledge that they have additional support and reinforcement from Kinesio Tape can instil confidence and alleviate concerns about potential injuries or setbacks. This mental resilience can be invaluable on race day, helping runners push through fatigue and discomfort to reach the finish line.

In conclusion, as the London Marathon draws near, runners are looking for every advantage to help them succeed in training and on race day. Kinesio Taping offers a non-invasive and effective solution for injury prevention, pain relief, and performance enhancement . By incorporating Kinesio Tape into their training regimen, runners can optimise their physical health, improve their performance, and increase their chances of crossing the finish line strong.

Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or tackling your first 26.2-mile race, consider harnessing the power of Kinesio Taping to help you conquer the London Marathon and achieve your running goals.

In The Hands of Osteopathy: Unlocking the Potential of Touch

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 11:44:24 GMT

Utilising a hands-on approach

In the fast-paced world we live in, where technology often takes centre stage in healthcare, there's something truly remarkable about the healing power of touch.

As an osteopath , I've witnessed firsthand the transformative effects that gentle manipulations can have on the body, mind, and spirit.

In this article, we'll explore the profound impact of osteopathic touch and how it can unlock the body's innate potential for healing .

Experience the Transformative Power of Osteopathic Touch

Osteopathy is a holistic approach to healthcare that emphasises the interconnectedness of the body's systems. At its core lies the belief that the body has the natural ability to heal itself given the right conditions. Osteopathic practitioners utilise a hands-on approach to diagnose, treat, and prevent a wide range of health issues.

Through gentle manipulations, osteopaths work to release tension, restore mobility, and rebalance the body's structure. These manipulations may include techniques such as stretching, soft tissue massage, and joint mobilisation. By targeting areas of restriction or dysfunction, osteopathic touch promotes circulation, alleviates pain, and enhances overall well-being.

Promoting Pain Management and Stress Reduction

One of the most significant benefits of osteopathic touch is its ability to manage pain and reduce stress . Whether you're suffering from chronic back pain, tension headaches, or muscular discomfort, osteopathic manipulations can provide relief by addressing the underlying causes of your symptoms.

By releasing tension in the muscles and improving joint mobility, osteopathy helps to alleviate pain and restore function . Additionally, the hands-on nature of osteopathic treatment promotes relaxation and reduces stress levels, allowing the body to enter a state of deep healing and restoration.

Unlockin g the Body's Innate Healing Mechanisms

Beyond pain management and stress reduction, osteopathic touch stimulates the body's innate healing mechanisms. By removing restrictions and restoring balance within the musculoskeletal system , osteopathy optimises the body's ability to heal itself. This holistic approach addresses not only the symptoms but also the root cause of the issue, leading to long-lasting results and improved overall vitality.

Whether you're seeking relief from a specific condition or simply looking to enhance your well-being, osteopathic touch offers a safe, natural, and effective approach to healthcare. By harnessing the healing power of touch, osteopathy empowers individuals to take an active role in their health and unlock their body's full potential for healing and vitality.

In conclusion, the healing hands of osteopathy offer a unique and powerful approach to healthcare. Through gentle manipulations and targeted interventions, osteopathic practitioners help individuals tap into their body's innate ability to heal and thrive. Experience the transformative power of osteopathic touch and embark on a journey towards greater health, vitality, and well-being.

Unleash Your Body's Healing Power with Osteopathy

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 14:34:55 GMT

Osteopathy taps into the body's innate ability to heal itself

In the pursuit of wellness and optimal health, exploring holistic approaches to healing has gained significant attention.

Among these, osteopathy stands out as a comprehensive and integrative method that taps into the body's innate ability to heal itself.

By understanding the body's interconnectedness, osteopathy offers a pathway to unlock its natural healing potential .

Understanding Osteopathy

Osteopathy is a distinctive form of manual therapy that emphasises the relationship between the body's structure and its function.

It operates on the principle that the body possesses self-regulating mechanisms, and any disruption to its structural integrity can hinder its ability to function optimally and self-heal.

The Healing Philosophy

Central to osteopathy is the belief that the body has an inherent capacity to heal itself. Osteopaths view the body as a unified entity, where each system works in harmony. When there is a structural imbalance or restriction in movement, it can impede the body's ability to function properly.

Osteopathic practitioners use their hands to assess and treat these imbalances, aiming to restore balance and facilitate the body's natural healing mechanisms .

A Holistic Approach

What sets osteopathy apart is its holistic approach to health. Rather than merely addressing symptoms, osteopathic treatments focus on identifying and treating the root cause of the issue .

By considering the interconnectedness of various body systems, osteopaths aim to optimise overall health by addressing not just the presenting symptoms but the underlying imbalances.

Conditions Treated by Osteopathy

Osteopathy is known for its efficacy in managing a wide array of conditions, including:

Back and neck pain
Joint pain and stiffness
Sports injuries
Headaches and migraines
Postural problems
And more...

Benefits of Osteopathy

The benefits of osteopathy extend beyond pain relief. Patients often report improvements in mobility, increased energy levels , better sleep quality, and overall enhanced well-being.

By restoring the body's structural balance, osteopathy empowers the body to function optimally, allowing for improved overall health and vitality.

Empower Your Body's Healing Potential

In a world where holistic wellness is gaining momentum, osteopathy stands as a beacon of hope for those seeking natural and non-invasive ways to improve their health.

By embracing the philosophy that the body possesses inherent healing capabilities , osteopathy offers a gentle yet powerful approach to unlock the body's potential for self-healing.

Whether you're seeking relief from pain, aiming to improve your mobility, or striving for better overall health, consider harnessing the healing power of osteopathy.

Consult with a qualified osteopathic practitioner and embark on a journey towards a healthier, more balanced you.

Understanding Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) and How Osteopathy Can Offer Relief

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 15:39:43 GMT

Exploring what RSI is and how osteopathy can provide effective relief

In today's fast-paced world, many individuals find themselves spending long hours engaged in repetitive tasks, whether at work, during leisure activities, or even while using digital devices.

Unfortunately, this can lead to a common yet often misunderstood condition known as Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) . In this article, we'll explore what RSI is, its causes, symptoms, and most importantly, how osteopathy can provide effective relief and management for RSI sufferers.

What is Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)?

Repetitive Strain Injury, commonly referred to as RSI, is a condition that occurs as a result of repetitive movements and overuse of certain muscles, tendons, and nerves. It most commonly affects the upper body, including the wrists, hands, forearms, elbows, shoulders, and neck.

RSI can manifest in various forms, such as tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow , and more.

Causes and Symptoms of RSI:

RSI can be caused by a wide range of activities that involve repetitive motions, prolonged awkward postures, forceful exertions, or vibration. Common culprits include typing on a keyboard, using a mouse, lifting heavy objects, playing musical instruments, and even activities like gardening or sports.

The symptoms of RSI can vary depending on the affected area but often include pain, stiffness, weakness, numbness, tingling, and swelling. These symptoms may worsen with continued use of the affected muscles and tendons, leading to decreased productivity, impaired performance, and reduced quality of life.

How Osteopathy Can Help:

Osteopathy is a holistic approach to healthcare that focuses on treating the body as a whole, rather than just addressing individual symptoms. Osteopathic practitioners use manual techniques, such as manipulation, massage, stretching, and mobilisation, to restore balance, improve function, and alleviate pain.

For individuals suffering from RSI, osteopathy offers several benefits:

Pain Relief: Osteopathic treatment can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with RSI by releasing tension, reducing inflammation, and promoting healing in affected muscles, tendons, and nerves.

Improved Range of Motion: Osteopathic techniques aim to restore normal movement patterns and flexibility, allowing individuals to regain full range of motion in affected joints and muscles.

Addressing Underlying Causes: Osteopaths take a comprehensive approach to treatment, identifying and addressing the underlying factors contributing to RSI, such as poor posture, muscle imbalances, and ergonomic issues.

Prevention Strategies: In addition to providing relief from existing symptoms, osteopathic practitioners can offer valuable advice and guidance on ergonomics, posture, stretching exercises, and lifestyle modifications to help prevent RSI from recurring in the future.

Conclusion:

Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) is a common yet often overlooked condition that can have a significant impact on daily life.

Fortunately, osteopathy offers a safe, natural, and effective approach to managing RSI symptoms and promoting overall musculoskeletal health.

By addressing underlying imbalances, relieving pain, and improving function, osteopathic treatment can help individuals reclaim their comfort, mobility, and quality of life.

If you're struggling with RSI, consider consulting with an osteopathic practitioner to explore how osteopathy can help you find relief and restore balance to your body.

The Path to Osteopathy: Qualifying in England, UK

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 15:27:19 GMT

Here's the requirements involved in attaining qualifications in osteopathy

Embarking on the journey to become an osteopath in the UK, is a path paved with dedication, education, and adherence to stringent standards . Understanding the steps and requirements involved in attaining qualifications in osteopathy provides insight into this esteemed healthcare profession.

Eligibility and Prerequisites

Aspiring osteopaths typically begin their journey by obtaining a recognised degree in osteopathy from an accredited institution. To pursue this degree in England, students usually need specific qualifications in subjects like biology, chemistry, or other sciences at the secondary education level.

These prerequisites form the foundation for higher education in osteopathy.

Accredited Osteopathic Programmes

In England, aspiring osteopaths undertake a full-time degree programme in osteopathy, usually spanning four to five years . Accredited programmes offered by recognised institutions cover comprehensive studies in anatomy, physiology, pathology, osteopathic principles, and techniques. These programmes provide both theoretical knowledge and practical clinical experience, essential for developing proficiency in osteopathic practice.

Clinical Experience and Training

A significant component of an osteopathic education in the UK involves hands-on clinical training . Students gain practical experience through supervised placements in clinical settings, where they apply their knowledge, skills, and techniques learned in the classroom to real patient care scenarios.

This clinical exposure plays a pivotal role in shaping their proficiency and readiness for professional practice.

Regulatory Body and Licensure

Upon successful completion of the accredited programme, individuals must register with the General Osteopathic Council ( GOsC ), the regulatory body for osteopathy in the UK.

Registration involves meeting specific standards of education, conduct, and professional practice set by the GOsC.

Once registered, individuals are legally authorised to practice as osteopaths in the UK.

Continuing Professional Development

Qualifying as an osteopath is not the culmination of education; it's the foundation.

Osteopaths are committed to lifelong learning and continuous professional development . The GOsC mandates that registered osteopaths engage in ongoing learning and development activities to maintain their registration and ensure they deliver high-quality care to their patients.

Conclusion

Becoming a qualified osteopath in England involves a dedicated commitment to education, practical experience, and adherence to regulatory standards set by the GOsC.

The journey encompasses years of rigorous study, clinical practice, and a dedication to ongoing professional development.

Qualified osteopaths in the UK embody expertise, ethical practice, and a deep understanding of holistic healthcare principles , ensuring the delivery of quality care to their patients.

Electrotherapy and Kinesio Taping in Osteopathy

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 15:07:40 GMT

Electrotherapy and Kinesio taping are both well-known for their therapeutic benefits

In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, osteopathy has emerged as a holistic and patient-centred approach to addressing musculoskeletal issues.

Among the myriad techniques employed by osteopaths , electrotherapy and Kinesio taping have gained prominence for their effectiveness in promoting healing and enhancing the overall well-being of individuals.

In this article, we will explore the integration of electrotherapy and Kinesio taping into osteopathic practice, understanding how these complementary therapies contribute to the holistic healing process.

Electrotherapy in Osteopathy

Electrotherapy, a therapeutic modality that utilises electrical stimulation for pain management and tissue healing, has found a valuable place in the toolkit of osteopaths. Here's how electrotherapy is applied in osteopathic practice:

Pain Management:

Electrotherapy can be used to alleviate pain associated with musculoskeletal conditions. By targeting specific nerve fibres, it helps to interrupt pain signals, providing relief to patients suffering from chronic pain or acute injuries.

Stimulation of Tissue Repair:

Electrical stimulation promotes blood flow and encourages the body's natural healing mechanisms .

This is particularly beneficial for patients recovering from injuries, surgeries, or dealing with conditions that impede normal tissue repair.

Muscle Rehabilitation:

Electrotherapy aids in muscle rehabilitation by strengthening weakened muscles and reducing muscle spasms.

This is especially relevant for individuals recovering from sports injuries or those with chronic muscular conditions .

Improved Joint Mobility:

Osteopaths may use electrotherapy to enhance joint mobility in patients with restricted movement.

The electrical stimulation helps relax tight muscles and can contribute to improved joint function.

Kinesio Taping in Osteopathy

Kinesio taping is another innovative technique that complements osteopathic treatments.

This method involves the application of a specialised tape to the skin , providing support to muscles and joints without restricting movement. Here's how Kinesio taping is utilised in osteopathic care:

Pain Relief and Support:

Kinesio tape is designed to mimic the flexibility of human skin, offering support to muscles and joints without limiting range of motion.

It can help alleviate pain by providing stability to injured or weakened areas.

Enhanced Circulation:

The tape's unique elastic properties create a lifting effect on the skin, promoting better circulation and reducing swelling.

This can be particularly beneficial for patients dealing with edema or inflammation.

Postural Correction:

Osteopaths may use Kinesio taping to facilitate postural correction by providing sensory feedback to the body.

This helps patients maintain better alignment and reduces the risk of injuries related to poor posture.

Neurological Benefits:

Kinesio tape interacts with the sensory receptors in the skin, influencing the nervous system. T

his can have positive effects on muscle activation and coordination, contributing to improved movement patterns.

Conclusion

The integration of electrotherapy and Kinesio taping into osteopathic practice represents a holistic approach to musculoskeletal care .

By combining hands-on osteopathic techniques with these advanced modalities, practitioners aim to address not only the symptoms but also the underlying c auses of musculoskeletal issues.

Patients benefit from a comprehensive and personalised treatment plan that considers the interconnectedness of the body systems, promoting optimal healing and long-term well-being.

As the field of osteopathy continues to evolve, the incorporation of innovative techniques like electrotherapy and Kinesio taping underscores the commitment to providing patient-centred, effective, and holistic care.

What Are Muscle Knots?

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 10:12:38 GMT

Muscle knots are also called “trigger points”

Are you plagued by achy muscles, tender points, and knots in your body?

You may be experiencing muscle knots.

Muscle knots can happen to anyone at any time, and they're no fun. They can cause pain and stiffness in your muscles and make it difficult to do activities you would normally do.

What are muscle knots?

Muscle knots, also called “ trigger points ” are small areas of hard, densely packed muscle fibres that can cause pain throughout the entire body.

Usually, muscle knots develop due to chronic tension, overload, or overuse of the affected area.

When these areas are not effectively addressed, the knots end up staying in place for extended periods of time.

Self help at home

Fortunately, there are things you can do right at home to help relieve and prevent muscle knots.

Stretching

The first step to managing muscle knots is to properly stretch the area. Stretching helps to loosen the muscles and increase blood flow to the area, which in turn helps them heal faster.

Be sure to stretch gently , without jerking or bouncing as this can actually make the pain worse.

Hot and cold packs

You may also want to try heat or cold therapy , depending on your level of discomfort and personal preference.

Heat helps to relax the muscles while cold helps reduce inflammation and numb the area so it's easier to move.

Massage

Along with stretching and heat/cold therapy, massage is an excellent way to work out the knots in your muscles.

Applying pressure with fingertips or a massage tool (such as a foam roller) helps to break up the built-up tension in the affected area.

In addition, self-massage is a great way to keep your muscles relaxed and tension-free on a regular basis.

By taking these steps, you can effectively manage and prevent muscle knots at home – so you can get back on track fast!

Professional help

Finally, if muscle knots continue to bother you or come back frequently, it may be due to something more chronic such as poor posture or physical imbalance.

In these cases, it's best to seek professional advice from a qualified Osteopath who can identify and treat the underlying causes of muscle knots.

Why an Osteopath?

When it comes to treating and preventing muscle knots, osteopathy is highly effective. Osteopathic techniques realign the knots by restoring relaxed muscle conditions in the body.

By working on the soft tissues surrounding the knot, osteopaths can reduce underlying factors that contribute to the development of the knot itself.

When the knot releases, it allows for optimal flow of blood and nutrients back into the area. This results in increased range of motion and improved function.

Luckily, osteopathy can help provide relief from these bothersome knots.

Tips and Advice to Help Stiff and Achy Joints and Muscles

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 13:07:23 GMT

Here's some self-help techniques you can do at home

Taking care of your stiff and achy joints and muscles is crucial for maintaining your overall health and well-being.

Whether you are experiencing pain due to an injury, chronic condition, or simply from everyday wear and tear, there are several self-help techniques that you can employ at home to alleviate your discomfort.

Stretching and gentle exercise can greatly improve joint flexibility and reduce stiffness:

Stretching & Gentle Exercises

Range-of-motion exercises are particularly effective in improving joint mobility , and include activities such as shoulder circles, knee bends, and ankle rotations.

Stretching exercises, such as hamstring stretches, calf stretches, and seated forward bends, can also help to alleviate stiffness and increase flexibility .

Strengthening Exercises

Strengthening exercises, like wall sits and lunges, can also be incorporated to improve joint stability and mobility.

However, it is important to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of the exercises to avoid injury.

It is always recommended to consult your Osteopath before starting an exercise routine, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions.

Additionally, applying cold therapy to the affected area can help to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain, a hot pack is also comforting to undamaged but aching muscles:

Heat Packs

The application of heat can increase blood flow and relax tired muscles , reducing stiffness. It can also help to soothe sore muscles and joints by stimulating the release of endorphins. It is important not to apply to inflamed areas as this can exacerbate the condition.

Cold Packs

On the other hand, the application of cold can reduce swelling and inflammation by constricting blood vessels reducing inflammation at the affected area. This can be particularly useful in cases of acute injuries such as sprains or strains.

Overall, the use of heat or cold packs can be a safe and non-invasive way to manage pain and promote healing.

Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into your diet and maintaining a healthy weight can also help to reduce joint pain:

Some examples of anti-inflammatory foods include fatty fish like salmon, nuts and seeds such as almonds and chia seeds, leafy greens like spinach and kale, and fruits such as berries and citrus.

Additionally, herbs and spices like turmeric, ginger, and garlic have shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.

By incorporating these foods into your meals, you may be able to reduce inflammation in your body and alleviate joint pain.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant dietary changes.

By implementing these top self-help techniques, you can effectively manage your joint and muscle pain from the comfort of your own home.

From Pain Relief to Improved Mobility

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 13:45:14 GMT

How Osteopathy Can Help You

What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a form of manual therapy that involves manipulating the musculoskeletal system to improve mobility and alleviate pain.

It focuses on the musculoskeletal structure as a whole, rather than treating individual symptoms.

Osteopathy can be effective in treating a range of conditions , including back pain , joint pain , and headaches.

By using various techniques such as massage, stretching, and joint mobilisation, osteopaths can help improve circulation, reduce tension, and promote healing. Through regular treatments and exercises, patients can see significant improvements in their mobility and overall well-being.

If you're looking for a natural, non-invasive way to address your pain and mobility issues, osteopathy may be the answer.

Healing from the inside out

Osteopathy is a holistic approach to healthcare that focuses on the body's ability to heal itself. It is based on the principle that the body is a self-regulating, self-healing organism, and that any disruption to this system can lead to pain, discomfort, and disease.

Osteopaths use a variety of techniques, including soft tissue massage, joint mobilisation, and gentle manipulation, to help restore balance to the body. This approach can be particularly effective for those suffering from chronic pain, musculoskeletal disorders, and stress-related conditions. By addressing the root cause of the problem, rather than just treating the symptoms, osteopathy can help patients achieve long-term healing from the inside out.

What can an Osteopath help with?

As a trained healthcare professional, an Osteopath is equipped with the knowledge and skills to provide treatment and relief for a range of musculoskeletal conditions.

From back and neck pain to sports injuries and arthritic pain, osteopathy can help alleviate pain and improve mobility.

Osteopathic treatment can also be beneficial for conditions such as headaches, shoulder problems, and stress related issues, as it aims to address underlying imbalances within the body.

Women's health

Additionally, osteopathy can support women's health during pregnancy and postpartum, as well as aid in the management of chronic conditions like asthma and fibromyalgia.

Overall, seeking the aid of an osteopath can provide a holistic approach to healthcare and improve overall wellbeing.

What is a a Qualified Sports Therapist?

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 11:04:54 GMT

We understand the frustration of chronic

Have you ever felt hopeless with an injury or physical condition that just won't seem to improve?

If so, you are not alone!

We understand the frustration of chronic pain and its effect on your day-to-day life.

The good news is there can be solutions to your physical ailments - help is available if you know where to look!

Andy Caughey is a qualified Sports Therapist and top practitioner in his field. With knowledge and expertise, he can use a holistic approach combined with hands-on therapies to help restore movement in painful joints and muscles, ultimately increasing mobility and leading to restoration of confident movement.

What does a sports therapist do?

Have you ever been side-lined from your favourite sport due to an injury or have you felt that ache in your muscle after extra training?

If your answer is yes, you might be surprised to learn just how beneficial a sports therapist can be in treating a range of injuries, and restoring balance and flexibility to stiff muscles — and it’s simply not just a case of reaching for the ibuprofen!

A sports therapist is a highly trained professional who specialises in evaluating and rehabilitatively treating musculoskeletal conditions that affect athletes or others with active lifestyles or varied exercise regimes.

They can tailor treatment programmes specifically to your individual needs, using evidence-based techniques before, during and after an event or competition.

From reducing swelling and inflammation, to helping relieve fatigue and restoring mobility, there is perhaps no better way to bounce back from an injury than with the help of sports rehabilitation.

Get in touch today

Whether you’re a professional athlete or an amateur sports enthusiast, there is no denying that these physical setbacks can put a damper on your game.

When traditional treatments like rest and pain management fail to deliver long-term relief, a sports therapist can be an invaluable asset in your journey back to full health and fitness.

From deep tissue massage to targeted exercises, sports therapy is a powerful tool for targeting sports injuries from the root.

What is the most common reason to see an osteopath?

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 16:29:20 GMT

Alleviating musculoskeletal issues

Are you feeling the strain of neck pain, lower back pain or shoulder and elbow aches?

Osteopathy might be just what you need.

This form of therapy works to restore balanced function in your body – helping alleviate musculoskeletal issues that ultimately affect not only how we move but also our mental health and wellbeing.

Think about it: If our physical structure is amiss, so too will our minds fail to work efficiently or effectively.

With osteopathic treatment tailored specifically for your individual needs, such as targeted manipulation techniques, massage therapies and gentle exercises designed to strengthen core muscles; it's possible to reduce joint-related situations from continuing cycles of chronic discomfort thus improving one’s quality of life on a daily basis! So don't wait any longer - book an appointment with an experienced Osteopath today and begin living tomorrow free from strains caused by muscle stiffness or misalignment!

Some key reasons why someone would visit an Osteopath:

Relieve pain and discomfort - From tension headaches to sciatica, visiting an osteopath can help you reduce or eliminate all kinds of aches and pains that won’t go away with regular medicine.

Improve your posture – Whether caused by slouching at work or injury sustained during exercise, a visit to the osteopath can realign your body efficiently so you stay erect even outside of treatment sessions.

Combat stress & anxiety - A combination of massage techniques that loosen tight muscles plus lifestyle advice on self-care gives relief from chronic mental health issues allowing for improved wellbeing in daily life activities and when tackling long term situations like pregnancy care etc.

Regain control over any movement issue - If some movements are restricted due to shoulder injuries, knee restrictions after accidents etc., visits to the Osteopathic clinic will provide much needed solace through treatments based solely on individual assessments making personalised therapies possible.

Parkstone Osteopaths

At Parkstone Osteopaths, we strive to provide the highest level of care and commitment for all our clients.

Our experienced team is dedicated to finding solutions that help you get back on track with your health goals as quickly as possible.

Our mission is helping people live their lives fully again — so contact us today and start feeling better soon!

Looking for an Osteopath in Parkstone?

Tue, 23 May 2023 13:51:37 GMT

Parkstone Osteopaths is a highly regarded osteopathy clinic

Are you looking for an Osteopath who can provide relief from chronic back pain in Parkstone, Poole?

Search no more – Parkstone Osteopaths is a highly regarded osteopathy clinic , staffed by an experienced and dedicated clinician offering a wide range of services tailored to your individual needs.

With treatments ranging from sports injury treatment, chronic neck pain to joint dysfunction, I will assess, diagnose and treat your pain with the utmost care and compassion.

I use the latest techniques in mechanical diagnosis, manipulative therapy and connective tissue massage that have been proven to be highly effective at relieving pain and discomfort.

My approach is always collaborative and I am committed to ensuring that all my patients understand their treatment plan and results.

So don’t struggle with discomfort in silence any longer – book an appointment at Parkstone Osteopaths today and let me help you get back on your feet quickly!

About the Practitioner - Andy Caughey

Get in touch

Andy of Parkstone Osteopaths offers a professional and reliable service, always prioritising the patient's wellbeing.

With his vast experience and dedication to creating comfortable, enjoyable experiences for all his clients, an appointment with him is one you won't soon forget. Make your booking today and experience Andy's expertise firsthand.

Why not book an appointment today and discover how our osteopathic care can help you find relief from physical pain?

From Start to Finish: What Happens During an Osteopathic Consultation

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 14:31:56 GMT

Have you ever wondered what happens if you were to need to be treated by an osteopath?

Are you thinking of making an appointment with an osteopath? Unsure of what to expect?

The first thing to do before you contact an osteopath is to make sure that they are registered with the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC). This is the regulatory body for osteopathy; please be aware that it is against the law for anyone who isn't registered with the GOsC to call themselves an osteopath.

It's easy to check – you can either call 020 7357 6655 or visit the General Osteopathic Council website .

What to expect at your first osteopathic consultation

Your first session will take approximately 45 minutes to an hour. This gives your chosen osteopath enough time to:

Ask questions about the pain or discomfort you are currently experiencing.
Ask about your overall health, past medical history and any other medical care you may be receiving.
Ask about your diet and lifestyle if these may be pertinent to your condition.
Examine you in order to provide you with an accurate diagnosis. Depending on where the problem area is, you may be required to remove clothing. Please be assured that your privacy will be respected at all times, and a dressing gown or towel will be provided. However, if you are uncomfortable undressing, just speak to your osteopath. You may want to ask a friend or relative to come with you to your first appointment.
Ask you to stretch and move your body in order to gauge your mobility and posture.
Assess your joint, ligament, muscle and tissue health.
Check for any serious conditions that an osteopath cannot treat. If there are any concerns at all during your initial consultation, you will be advised to organise an appointment with your GP or visit a hospital for further tests.

A tailored treatment plan

Osteopathy is a patient-centred, non-invasive system of healthcare that uses a variety of treatment techniques to redress your body's natural balance. Treatment includes:

Manipulation of the body's spine and joints
Deep tissue massage
Articulation of the joints
Stretching stiff joints

During your initial consultation, your osteopath will explain the results of your physical examination and discuss appropriate treatment. Benefits as well as any risks will be talked about to ensure that you understand what the treatment sessions will entail and how many sessions you may need before you feel a noticeable improvement in your general health.

What can osteopathy treat?

Osteopathy can help to manage or alleviate a variety of injuries and conditions, including:

Neck pain
Back pain
Musculoskeletal disorders
Postural problems
Muscle tension
Work strain
Sports injuries
Joint mobility issues
Conditions that result in chronic pain such as arthritis

Contact Parkstone Osteopaths

Please call Parkstone Osteopaths on 01202 734211 to discuss any pain or discomfort you may be feeling and to arrange your first visit. We are dedicated to providing the best possible care.

How can Osteopath help me?

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 14:00:40 GMT

Osteopathy is a holistic approach to health care that looks at the body as a whole

If you are suffering from back pain, there are many advantages associated with visiting an osteopath. Osteopathy is a holistic approach to health care that looks at the body as a whole and uses gentle manual manipulation techniques to relieve pain and improve functionality. An osteopath will take their time to understand your individual circumstances, taking into consideration your lifestyle, stress levels and other factors before coming up with a tailored treatment plan for you.

Having a professional treatment plan is especially important for those with chronic back pain , as it can be more difficult to resolve without targeted guidance. Osteopathic treatments involve manual massage and stretching of the muscles, joints and ligaments to increase circulation and reduce tension, help with reducing inflammation, relieving pressure points and improving joint alignment. In addition, osteopaths may also provide postural advice, lifestyle tips and simple exercises to aid in recovery.

Overall, an osteopath offers a safe and effective solution for those struggling with back pain. By working together in partnership with a qualified practitioner, you can make an informed decision on how best to manage the issue and ensure long-term relief.

Why go and see an Osteopath

Osteopathy is a natural, non-invasive form of healthcare that helps to reduce and eliminate pain by restoring normal joint and tissue mobility. It works by viewing the whole body holistically and treating the source of the problem instead of just addressing the symptoms.

An osteopath can help you be free from pain by using a variety of techniques including soft tissue massage and manipulation, to realign the structure of joints and muscles .

How long will it take?

The amount of time it will take for you to be in less pain depends on several factors such as the severity of your condition, the general state of your health, and how your body responds to treatment.

Generally speaking, however, most people who seek osteopathic care notice a significant degree of relief within four treatments.

Your osteopath will work with you to determine what type of treatment plan and timeline is best for your individual needs.

Get in touch

Don't let your condition remain untreated any longer! Reach out to Parkstone Osteopaths today on 01202 734211 for more information about how an Osteopath could help you.

We hope you enjoyed reading our article, ‘How can Osteopath help me?’. Make sure to get in touch with us now to find the relief you deserve!

Are you looking for a natural way to relieve chronic pain?

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 11:36:28 GMT

Osteopaths are well-trained and experienced healthcare practitioners

Are you looking for a natural way to relieve chronic pain, improve your posture, and even reduce stress?

Visiting an Osteopath may be the perfect choice for you!

Osteopathy is natural

Osteopathy is a natural form of hands-on healthcare that focuses on improving the health of the entire body by treating the musculoskeletal system.

It is based on the belief that the structure of the body affects its function and that treating the body as a whole can promote health and well-being in mind and body.

Osteopathic treatments can provide relief from a wide range of conditions such as back pain , sciatica, headaches, neck pain, shoulder pain , and many more.

Osteopaths are well-trained and experienced healthcare practitioners.

Tailored to your needs

Osteopathic treatments are holistic and tailored to your individual needs, making them ideal for those looking for a comprehensive approach to health and well-being.

Osteopathic treatments can help relieve pain from chronic conditions, reduce stress, improve range of motion, balance hormones, improve posture and more.

Osteopaths are also trained to detect and treat underlying conditions that can be causing your health issues, such as misalignments in the body or restrictions in movement.

Because of this detailed approach, osteopathic treatments can be both relaxing and effective.

Seeing an osteopath is also a great way to take proactive steps to ensure you to become more active.

What can I expect when visiting an Osteopath?

When you visit an Osteopath, you can expect to be welcomed warmly by a professional who has extensive knowledge of the human body and how it works.

During your visit, the Osteopath will ask you questions about your medical history and symptoms, as well as conduct a physical examination. This helps the Osteopath to understand your situation better and to determine the best approach for treating your condition.

The Osteopath may use a range of techniques to help you, such as massage, joint manipulation, stretching and exercise.

The treatment plan may also include lifestyle advice, such as changes to diet, posture and exercise.

The osteopath may very well regularly check in with you to ensure that the treatment is helping, and make changes if necessary.

About Parkstone Osteopaths

At Parkstone Osteopaths, we are passionate about providing our patients with the best possible care.

We understand that taking the first step towards getting the support you need can feel daunting, but we want you to know that you are in safe hands.

We are experienced and dedicated experts who are here to help you every step of the way. Whether you’re looking to manage a chronic condition, or you’ve been injured and need some support, we’re here to help.

Get in touch with us today and take the first step towards feeling better!

Does cold weather cause you pain and stiffness? Osteopathy can help

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 10:35:13 GMT

Some people’s bodies react badly to falling temperatures

Some people’s bodies react badly to falling temperatures. Does cold weather cause you pain and stiffness? Osteopathy can help treat the symptoms.

The seasons are changing. Temperatures have dropped; the mornings are getting colder and the evenings are drawing in.

And for some people, these changes in the weather can badly affect their bodies. Does cold weather cause you pain and stiffness?

It’s unclear why some of us react to weather changes when others don’t. There are a few theories, the most popular relating to drops in baromic pressure. These drops can result in muscles, tendons and surrounding tissues expanding and causing pain, particularly to those with arthritic joints.

Everyone reacts when baromic pressure fluctuates but if you already suffer from arthritis and chronic pain, you are going to be far more susceptible.

Even if you aren’t vulnerable, the cold will naturally make you feel tight and tense. This can lead to reduced flexibility and mobility in the joints, making it hard to get moving.

Plus if you find that your mood gets lower in the winter, your perception of pain can be magnified.

However, there are certain things you can do to reduce the pain you feel in colder months:

Does cold weather cause you pain and stiffness? Choose your clothing sensibly

Layer your clothing to stay warm and ease the shock of the dropping temperature on your body. Cold fingers and toes can play havoc with your senses, so ensure you always have gloves and a thick pair of warm socks close by.

Does cold weather cause you pain and stiffness? Avoid winter weight gain

It’s not easy as winter usually means comfort food, without factoring in the food and drink you’re likely to consume over the festive season. However, it is important to maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on your knees and other joints.

Does cold weather cause you pain and stiffness? Stay active

The temptation is to hibernate at home when it’s cold outside but in reality, the best way to avoid pain and injury is to stay active.

Choose activities and exercises that will build up your muscle and bone strength. Make sure you stretch before heading outside in order to loosen stiff joints.

Does cold weather cause you pain and stiffness? Enjoy a balanced diet

Does cold weather cause you pain and stiffness? Stay positive

Your state of mind can have a massive impact on your physical health. Do things you enjoy, spend time with loved ones, sleep well and stay positive.

Does cold weather cause you pain and stiffness? Contact your local osteopath

An osteopath can help you reduce the symptoms of aching joints and muscles. We can also offer advice on diet, exercise and lifestyle choices.

Please call Parkstone Osteopaths on 01202 734211 for further information and to arrange an initial consultation.

How can an osteopath help with tennis elbow?

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 14:24:10 GMT

From massage and manipulation to advice on activities and movements to avoid, how can an osteopath help with tennis elbow?

Are you suffering pain and tenderness around your elbow joint? Tennis elbow is an injury caused by repetitive overuse or wear and tear from an activity or sport but can it be treated? How can an osteopath help with tennis elbow ?

You may assume that only tennis players suffer from tennis elbow. However, the fact is that anyone can experience the symptoms. If you have a pre-existing issue with your neck, shoulder or wrist, you are much more likely to end up with tennis elbow.

In some circumstances the symptoms will go away on their own but the likelihood is that once the pain starts, even your everyday habits and activities can exacerbate the injury.

This is why it is a good idea to seek treatment with an osteopath.

How can an osteopath help with tennis elbow – what is tennis elbow?

How can an osteopath help with tennis elbow? Our treatment

An osteopath treats the body as a whole in order to get to the root cause of the problem, relieve symptoms and help you restore balance.

We will offer a range of treatments and advice:

Massage and manipulation of the elbow and surrounding joints to ease your symptoms Advice on any movements or activities to avoid as you recover
Guidance on exercises that may help you make progress
Advice on any appropriate sports strapping or elbow brace
Suggest that you visit your GP regarding anti-inflammatories or pain medication

Get in touch

Don’t suffer in silence anymore! Please contact Parkstone Osteopaths on 01202 734211 for more information about our tennis elbow treatments and to arrange an initial consultation.

We hope you found our article, ‘How can an osteopath help with tennis elbow?’ of interest.

Can an osteopath help with hip pain?

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 13:43:06 GMT

Are you experiencing issues with your hips? Can an osteopath help with hip pain and ease the symptoms?

Are you suffering with pain and discomfort in your hips?
Are you struggling to find ways to alleviate the symptoms?
Can an osteopath help with hip pain?

If you are experiencing hip pain, your osteopath can help.

Your hip and groin area is a complex part of the body. The hip is a ball and socket joint – just like your shoulder joint – and is connected to the femur and pelvic bones. Together with muscles, tendons, ligaments and nerves, this network of bones enable you to move your hip.

Strength and stability are vital when it comes to your hips as they are the centre of movement between your upper and lower body. When we walk or run, our pelvic and hip area has to withstand a great deal of force – force which travels down the spine, through the pelvis, into the hips and legs and down into the floor.

This means that when this area is injured, it can result in other parts of your body having to work harder to compensate. Not only will you have hip pain, but you are likely to also end up with additional strain and discomfort in other joints.

Common hip and groin issues include:

Muscle strain
Inflamed tendons
Fracture and dislocation
Osteoarthritis
Labral tear
Bursitis
Inguinal hernia

Hip pain can happen at any age – it is not just the elderly that can suffer. You could land awkwardly, repeat certain sideways movements (which is why dancers and footballers are prone to hip issues) or you may have a chronic condition such as arthritis or bursitis.

So if you are wondering, ‘can an osteopath help with hip pain?’ then the answer is yes! We cannot cure chronic conditions but osteopathy can help manage symptoms. Contact Parkstone Osteopaths for further details on 01202 734211.

Can an osteopath help with hip pain?

Your osteopath will look at your body as whole; they will assess the way your hip moves, as well as your lower back and limbs to work out the source and cause of your pain.

Treatment will include manipulating the hip joint to reduce tension and improve mobility, and strengthening and stretching the surrounding muscles. This treatment plan is designed to alleviate pain and return the affected area back to optimal health.

In addition, your osteopath will offer advice regarding ways in which you can improve your range of movement and posture at home, as well as lifestyle tips, thereby reducing the risk of the injury reoccurring.

Can an osteopath help with hip pain? Get in touch

We can help reduce hip pain – contact Parkstone Osteopaths on 01202 734211 to discuss your condition and to arrange an initial consultation.

Increase joint flexibility with osteopathy

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 13:41:12 GMT

Do you struggle with your flexibility? Were you aware that you could increase joint flexibility with osteopathy?

Do you wish you were more flexible? Do you worry that your lack of flexibility may lead to injury? You can actually increase joint flexibility with osteopathy – non-invasive, pain free, hands-on techniques designed to improve your range of motion.

Most people take their bodies for granted. Our feet get us from A to B, our hands write and grip, our backs will take the strain when we pick something up. In the same way, we expect our muscles to be flexible and our joints to have a decent range of motion when it comes to any sort of sport, fitness regime or physical activity.

But what if they’re not?

Let’s take golf as an example. How is it possible that a thinly built teenager might be able to drive the ball further than a strong, stocky man? How is it that a golfer will understand how important ‘timing’ is – making contact with the sweet spot of the golf ball at optimal speed – and yet still struggle to do this consistently? It is because this timing is heavily reliant on the golfer having smooth and co-ordinated joint motion. Simply put, you may know all the moves but it will mean nothing if you have tight muscles and stiff joints.

The more flexible you are, the better you will be able to move and perform. In the same way, a less flexible person pushing their body to the limits will be at a greater risk of injury. It doesn’t matter how strong you are -

We all have different levels of flexibility but there are things we can do to maximise our range of motion. One of these is to visit an osteopath.

Increase joint flexibility with osteopathy

Increase joint flexibility with osteopathy at home

During your treatment, your osteopath will offer advice on appropriate exercises you can at home, designed to maintain range of motion and increase joint flexibility. If required, they will also suggest strengthening exercises.

Get in touch

Based in Poole, Parkstone Osteopaths has gained an exceptional reputation for providing the highest standards of patient treatment and care.

Please contact us on 01202 734211 to discuss your needs and arrange an initial consultation with one of our trained and experienced osteopaths.

We hope you found our article ‘Increase joint flexibility with osteopathy’ of interest. Please do not hesitate to get in touch if you have any queries about the subject.

Can osteopathy help with anxiety?

Mon, 29 Nov 2021 14:17:01 GMT

Can Osteopathy reduce those feelings of worry, agitation, restlessness or panic?

Do you suffer from anxiety?

If so, you may wonder: can osteopathy help with anxiety? Can reduce those feelings of worry, agitation, restlessness or panic?

Do you fear the worst, feel unable to relax, have difficulty concentrating?

These are common symptoms of anxiety, and thankfully, there are ways to reduce or eradicate these feelings. It is no surprise that many of our clients ask: can osteopathy help with anxiety?

Symptoms of anxiety

Common symptoms and signs of anxiety include:

Feeling, tense, nervous, on edge
Having an increased heart rate
Rapid breathing
Sweating
Trembling
Panic attacks
Difficulty concentrating or focusing on anything other than what you’re worrying about
Feeling tired and weak
Agitation
Overthinking
Having a sense of impending doom, fearing the worst
Trouble sleeping
Unable to relax
Avoiding things that trigger anxiety
Digestive issues
Irrational fears

There are a number of types of anxiety disorders, which include:

Agoraphobia
Generalised anxiety disorder
Panic disorder
Separation anxiety disorder
Selective mutism
Substance-induced anxiety disorder
Social anxiety disorder

So the question is: can osteopathy help with anxiety?

Anxiety – an imbalance of the adrenal glands

The adrenal glands are located at the top of the kidneys; they are chiefly responsible for regulating the body’s stress response through the synthesis of corticosteroids and catecholamines, which include cortisol and adrenaline. You may know this better as the ‘fight or flight’ response, which is initiated by the sympathetic nervous system.

This response is there to save our lives in case of danger; however, when overstimulated, these hormone can flow through your body for too long, creating a chronic state of stress. This can have an impact, both emotionally and physically.

Can osteopathy help with anxiety? Muscle manipulation, massage and palpitation

There are a number of ways that you can reduce stress and lower your ‘fight or flight’ response. Meditation, exercise, time spent outdoors or with friends and family – they are all natural ways to feel less anxious. However, if you have become accustomed to this heightened state of anxiety, it can be very difficult to break those habit alone.

Our osteopaths can help you to leave anxiety behind. Osteopathy treats the body as a whole, looking at the body’s systems in order to encourage all-round health. As such, we will take into account the physical symptoms you are displaying, as well as your lifestyle and any external stressors that may contribute to your anxiety.

When it comes to anxiety-related conditions, our osteopath will focus on the muscles around the thoracic spine, which is where the sympathetic nervous system is located. Using gentle, non-invasive palpitation, massage and manipulation techniques in this region of the body, your osteopath can identify areas of tension that may be causing pain and affecting your muscle mobility.

Can osteopathy help with anxiety? Breathing techniques

Deep breathing is one of the best ways to reduce anxiety. Your osteopath will take you through a variety of breathing techniques, which are effective in lowering the body’s heart rate and blood rate. You will be encouraged to practice your breathing exercises regularly at home.

Everyone experiences anxiety at some stage in their life and in most cases, it is a very normal response to uncomfortable situations. However, if you are feeling debilitated by anxiety, please remember that it can be treated.

Please call Parkstone Osteopaths on 01202 734211 to find out more and to arrange an initial consultation.

We hope you found our article, ‘ Can osteopathy help with anxiety? ’ of interest. Please do not hesitate to get in touch if you have any queries.

Is osteopathic treatment painful?

Mon, 06 Sep 2021 15:05:22 GMT

What should you expect from osteopathic treatment

It’s a valid question: is osteopathic treatment painful? What should you expect from osteopathic treatment? What can osteopathy treat?

If you’ve never been to an appointment before, you may be asking yourself, ‘is osteopathic treatment painful?’ You might also be wondering what to expect from your first session, how osteopathy can help with your condition, how long it could take before you may feel symptoms easing?

Here at Parkstone and Broadstone Osteopaths, we are dedicated to removing pain and discomfort from your body. And we know all too well that some of that discomfort can be alleviated simply by giving you the information you need in order to relax and reduce any fear of the unknown.

Therefore the simple answer to the question, ‘is osteopathic treatment painful?’ is no. However, it isn’t unusual to feel a bit stiff or sore in the days after your appointment. This is totally normal, particularly if you are being treated for an inflamed or painful injury.

Osteopathy is based on the aim of restoring your body’s normal function and joint stability in order to encourage the body to heal itself. We believe that your wellbeing is dependent on your bones, muscles, connective tissues and ligaments all working together in harmony.

This is done through a variety of both gentle and more stronger manual techniques designed to reduce pain, improve movement and encourage blood flow.

These techniques, which are chosen based on your individual needs, include:

Soft tissue manipulation ( a form of strong massage)
Stretching
Articulation
High velocity thrusts to improve joint range of motion (where safe and applicable)

Osteopathy can help increase joint mobility, relieve muscle tension, increase blood supply to your body’s tissues and aid your body’s natural healing processes.

People with the following conditions or ailments may benefit from osteopathy as they affect the bones, muscles and joints:

Lower back or neck pain
Shoulder pain
Arthritic associated pain
Sports injuries
Elbow pain
General Muscle/joint pain

What to expect

During your treatment

Your first appointment will typically last for around 45 mins as it will include an initial consultation before treatment commences. Subsequent osteopathy sessions will take around 30 minutes.

Is osteopathic treatment painful? Osteopathy is rarely painful but there may be times when you will have a reaction after your session such as a mild ache or a slightly bruised feeling. Your osteopath will discuss this with you and will offer advice on exercises and tips for faster recovery at home.

When will I start to feel better?

Everyone is different – some people will only need to visit an osteopath once or twice, whilst others will need more treatments before their symptoms are alleviated. On average, it takes three to four sessions to get you back to your original level of mobility. This will depend on a few factors, such as your age, overall health and fitness level. However, some patients will benefit with regular maintenance sessions, these will be covered by your Osteopath during your sessions.

We hope you found our article, ‘Is osteopathic treatment painful?’ of interest. Please do not hesitate to get in contact for more information.

Osteopathic treatment for back pain during pregnancy

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 11:13:43 GMT

Top tips how to help treat back pain during pregnancy

It is common to experience pregnancy-related back pain – here are our top tips when it comes to osteopathic treatment for back pain during pregnancy.

Are you pregnant and experiencing back pain? You are not alone. Around 50% of women will suffer from back pain during pregnancy. For some it will be mild; for others it can be incredibly uncomfortable, particularly when also trying to manage other pregnancy symptoms.

So what causes it? And is it worth looking into osteopathic treatment for back pain during pregnancy?

Your body will experience many changes during the three stages of pregnancy. You will put on weight and retain water, putting pressure on your back and pelvis and shifting your centre of gravity, which places increased strain on these areas and can contribute to sciatic pain. The weight gain could also cause your muscles to tighten, resulting in discomfort in your upper and lower back. As your body prepares itself for labour, your ligaments will loosen and stretch, impacting on your posture and increasing strain on your joints.

These changes are all very normal and should not cause you concern. However, if you are in discomfort, you could always opt for osteopathic treatment for back pain during pregnancy.

Ways to relieve the pain

Exercise

Staying active during pregnancy can minimise pain in the later stages. Low impact exercise such as yoga, pilates and aqua-exercises (high impact movements in water) are particularly beneficial as they can build muscles in your back, helping to improve posture, without exerting your body more than you should.

Please remember that your body will produce increased levels of the hormone Relaxin whilst pregnant, making your body more flexible. Because of this it is easier to accidentally over-stretch your body so it is very important to be careful when exercising.

Stretches

By regularly stretching, you will both strengthen and loosen the muscles in your back, easing any back pain you may be suffering during pregnancy.

Change the way you sleep

Are you finding it difficult to sleep because of back pain? There are a few sleeping positions that may make you more comfortable. Try putting a pillow between your legs or bend your knees as these can ease the pressure on your back. There are also a number of pregnancy pillows on the market, which are designed to offer support and relieve back pain.

Osteopathy

Osteopathy uses a variety of physical manipulation techniques, stretching and massage to provide pain relief to joints, muscles and ligaments. We generally will use less robust techniques during pregnancy.

Osteopathic treatment for back pain during pregnancy will target problem areas, such as your back and sciatic nerve. It is safe, gentle and pain-free.

Don’t suffer in silence. Parkstone Osteopaths is open and following all Government guidelines in regards to social distancing and hygiene. Please view our Coronavirus update. Please contact us today to discuss your needs and to book an appointment.

We hope you found our article, ‘Osteopathic treatment for back pain during pregnancy’ of interest. We would be very happyto discuss any concerns or queries you may have.

Osteopathy for the elderly – the benefits

Wed, 25 Nov 2020 15:04:29 GMT

Osteopathy for the elderly can be highly beneficial

As we get older, our spines deteriorate and our posture changes, which can be detrimental to our health. Osteopathy for the elderly can be highly beneficial.

As we age, our body inevitably gets weaker. Tendons and joints are no longer as thick as they once were. Our spines deteriorate. Muscles waste. Our posture changes, putting increased strain on surrounding muscles, joints and ligaments. Joints become stiffer and have less range of movement than in younger years. Conditions such as osteoarthritis and osteoporosis become more prevalent.

However, getting older should not automatically mean more aches and pains. With the right treatment, a lot of the stresses and strains can be reduced. Osteopathy for the elderly can make a massive difference, helping to improve deteriorating posture through gentle yet effective soft tissue massage.

In addition to regular exercise and a healthy diet, osteopathy can help with a range of issues associated with getting older:

Joint mobility
Muscle tension
Blood supply to the body’s tissues
Body suppleness
Lower back pain
Knee and hip pain

Osteopathy for the elderly – a gentle yet effective treatment

Osteopathy is well known for its gentle approach, making it ideal for older people. Using a range of massage, stretching, touching and physical manipulation but rarely joint adjustment, osteopathy increases joint mobility, relieves tension, increases the blood supply to veins and tissues, and induces the body’s natural healing mechanism.

Osteopathy for the elderly – minimising spinal pain

Older people are more likely to develop a hunching of the thoracic spine. This condition means that simply holding your head up will increase strain on the neck and upper back joints and muscles.

Osteopathy will gently stretch the muscles and connective tissues around the vertebrae and other joints, relieving pressure and strain and improving overall posture.

Osteopathy for the elderly – knee and hip pain

Knee and hip pain is a common complaint amongst the elderly. This is because as we age, muscles that we don’t use very frequently lose strength. We are far more likely to use our back to bend rather than our knees and hips, weakening these joints over time. It is not surprising that many older people are unable to get down to the floor and back up again without assistance.

It is also why seniors are more likely to fall and hurt themselves if they become unsteady – the muscles that are meant to keep them stable and supported aren’t strong enough. Worryingly, this also means that the person will also find it very difficult to get up and get the help they need.

Osteopathic treatment can be highly beneficial in this situation – your osteopath will work to improve the knee’s movement and increase lymphatic drainage in the area to reduce pain. You will also be given strengthening exercises to be done at home to boost mobility.

We're committed to helping people

Parkstone Osteopaths is committed to helping people of all ages and walks of life with natural, effective osteopathy treatments designed to relieve pain and restore health.

Please call us on 01202 734211 to find out more, or to book a consultation with one of our trained and experienced osteopaths.

We hope you found our article ‘Osteopathy for the elderly – the benefits’ of interest. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any queries or questions.

How do I find out if an osteopath is registered

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 15:05:16 GMT

It's essential that you consult a Registered Osteopath

Whatever your reasons for seeking osteopathic treatment, it ’ s essential that you consult a registered osteopath, that is someone legally qualified to carry out the work they are providing.

By law, every osteopath has to be registered with the General Osteopathic Council . This council is the regulatory body of osteopathy in the UK and works in conjunction with the osteopathic industry and the public to increase and promote safety standards.

Any osteopath practicing within the UK and who is not registered with the General Osteopathic Council is committing an offence for which there are serious repercussions.

If you want to find out whether the osteopath you have been recommended is registered you can do so by visiting the General Osteopathic Council’s website. You can check me out… If you want to find out additional information including how long an osteopath has been practicing you can find this information in the

‘ Practitioner Details ’ within the register itself. This will help you to gauge the clinical experience of the osteopath – post qualification.

How long does an osteopath have to train before qualifying?

‘ Practitioner Details ’ within the register itself. This will help you to gauge the clinical experience of the osteopath – post qualification.

How long does an osteopath have to train before qualifying?

To become an osteopath, most undergraduate students complete a five-year course which involves both academic and clinical work. The resulting qualification is usually a bachelor ’ s degree in osteopathy such as a BSc (Hons), Bost or BostMed. Some students complete a masters ’ degree in osteopathy.

The General Osteopathic Council developed and set the rules regarding the professional development and training of osteopaths. All osteopaths must update their knowledge and training during the course of their careers, including at least 30 hours ’ of Continuing Professional Development every year.

Many osteopaths go far beyond this and equip themselves with a broad range of specialist training to enhance the services they offer.

The standards required of an osteopath practising in the UK are detailed in the General Osteopathic Council ’ s Osteopathic Practice Standards.

These principles have been developed in conjunction with a wide range agencies and organisations including patient representative groups, osteopathic educational bodies, students, individual patients and the British Osteopathic Association.

Revalidation

Revalidation is a new system which has been introduced by the General Osteopathic Council which requires qualified osteopaths to demonstrate, at regular intervals, that they remain up-to-date and fit to practice. All healthcare regulators are required by the Government to introduce improved professional monitoring processes.

Currently, an osteopath is required to renew their registration every year to meet ongoing professional development requirements. The new system will increase confidence among patients and provide reassurance that the registered osteopath they are using meets the standards of their profession.

Why is stretching important during exercise

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 14:40:36 GMT

Osteopaths regularly tackle sports injuries and muscle-related strains

You don't want to be suffering with a sports injury...

Osteopaths regularly tackle sports injuries and muscle-related strains brought on by overuse or repetition. So we thought we’d cover why is stretching important during exercise?

Not every sports injury is avoidable by stretching prior to beginning work, but it does help to reduce the risk – if performed correctly. Making sure you stretch correctly is vital as some traditional types of stretching can actually increase your risk of injury – from the stretching itself.

There is a school of thought that stretching cold muscles can do more harm than good. A good approach is to carry out some gentle warm-up activity prior to stretching which will help you prepare for your game or sports session without putting any unnecessary pressure on your core muscles and ligaments.

What are the benefits of stretching?

Stretching has a number of benefits for active people who enjoy sport. It reduces muscle tension and helps the body to feel more relaxed, which is particularly beneficial post exercise.

It also increases flexibility, circulation and the range of motion the body is able to cope with which helps during any excessive physical activity. Stretching at best is a preventive measure to reduce muscle strains and enable muscles to better resist stress.

However, stretching should not be undertaken if you have acquired a recent bone fracture, sprain or strain or if the range of motion in your body is someway limited. You should also avoid stretching – and sport – is any joints are inflamed or infected and if pain is experiencing by any muscle group during the process of stretching.

While stretching is not going to result in dramatic weight loss – that ’ s what aerobic activity is for – it will enable your core muscle groups to work more harmoniously with one another. It complements the physical activity you perform and gives you better overall body awareness.

Stretching tips

Whichever sport you’re about to undertake, complete five to 10 minutes of walking or light jogging to warm-up prior to embarking on either stretching or your main activity.
Never stretch your muscles when they are cold. If feel you don’t have time to warm-up, shorten your sports activity by a few minutes to give you adequate time to warm-up and stretch. Warming up is more important and helps you to avoid long-term injury.
Stretch all the major muscle groups which are affected by the type of activity you are undertaking. So for running and jogging, focus on leg-related stretching, which incorporates the quadriceps and hamstrings.
Never bounce while you stretch or make sudden movements. This can create small tears that can increase during the course of exercise.
Avoid balancing and stretching at the same time. There is no therapeutic benefit for standing on one leg unaided during the course of a stretch so hold on to a chair or wall for support to provide additional stability.

I t is worth investigating the best type of stretches for your unique sport. If in doubt, consult a coach or an expert to ensure you can enjoy your activity injury-free for many years to come.

What is sciatica and how is it treated

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 14:34:37 GMT

The sciatic nerve is the longest and widest nerve in the human body

Sciatica is the term used to describe any pain which originates from the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is the longest and widest nerve in the human body and begins from nerve roots in the lumbar spinal cord in the lower back, moving through the buttocks and down through the legs to just below the knee.

Contrary to common belief, sciatica itself is not a condition but a symptom of irritation to the sciatic nerve. When sciatic pain is experienced it is typically felt from the lower back area to behind the thigh and in some cases radiates down below the knee.

One of the most common causes of sciatica is a lumbar disc herniation which directly applies pressure on the nerve. This is a situation in which a disc may have degenerated and broken down, causing the core to leak out through the outer area of the disc.

There are other causes of sciatica, however, including irritation of the nerve as a result of injury, bone, muscle, and infections in and around the lumbar spine.

Spondylolisthesis is another common cause. This occurs when there is a slippage of one vertebra so that it is out of line with the one above it, resulting in a narrowing of the opening through where the nerve exits.

Pregnancy can also bring on sciatic pain, especially in the second and third trimester when the baby’s head is in a lower position in the abdomen and can press against its mother’s sciatic nerves. Women who have sciatic pain during pregnancy might feel shooting pains or numbness in the lower back or buttocks area.

The pain can be so severe that movement is restricted and sitting or standing is very painful. Treating sciatica during pregnancy will help reduce discomfort and increase mobility.

How is sciatica diagnosed and treated?

Most people visit their GP when sciatica is suspected. A doctor will review the individual ’ s symptoms and undertake a physical exam which could involve a straight leg raise test in which each leg is lifted to see at what stage pain occurs. Such an exam can help to identify the nerves affected and whether there is a disc problem.

Other tests could be ordered including an X-ray or MRI scan for a closer look at the spine.

Since sciatica can cause its sufferers a great deal of pain, one of the motivations of treatment is to reduce discomfort and increase mobility. Treatment usually involves physical therapy and pain killing medicine to reduce inflammation and pain.

Most sciatica pain resolves naturally over a period of weeks. Only in a minority of cases will patients experience pain for longer.

Many sufferers of sciatica seek the services of an osteopath to help relieve their symptoms and promote recovery. An osteopath is likely to use muscle release techniques to encourage muscles which may have trapped and compressed a nerve to relax and relieve pressure on the sciatic nerve. Such techniques will be supported by a rehabilitation exercise programme.

Patients who have sought osteopathic treatment for sciatica believe that it plays an important role in keeping further episodes of pain at bay.

I hope you found this article useful. While most cases of sciatica are unpreventable, you can take steps to protect your spine by adopting correct lifting techniques and undertaking regular exercise. Some people book twice yearly maintenance treatments with an osteopath to help keep pain and problems at bay.

What is Frozen Shoulder – have I got Frozen Shoulder

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 14:34:36 GMT

Frozen Shoulder is a relatively common problem

Frozen Shoulder is a relatively common problem, affecting up to 5% of the population. However, the condition is still very much an enigma and little is known about its causes. The good news is Frozen Shoulder is treatable – particularly when it’s caught early – and almost never returns in the same shoulder.

The majority of people who are affected by Frozen Shoulder are above the age of 40. Although there is no conclusive evidence as to why it affects some people and not others, many patients have suffered a shoulder injury of some kind before the onset of the condition.

What is frozen shoulder?

Frozen Shoulder is the clinical term used to describe a condition in which the sufferer feels pain and stiffness in the shoulder. This can get worse over time or better but generally most sufferers experience restricted movement in their shoulder. This can be minor or severe and makes daily tasks such as washing hair and cleaning teeth extremely difficult.

Frozen shoulder affects more women than men and can originate as a ‘tweak’ in the shoulder which doesn’t get any better. The pain can be breathtakingly sharp and during the early stages sufferers can experience pain through the night, leading to disturbed sleep patterns.

The discomfort is caused by inflammation and thickening of the flexible tissue, known as the capsule, surrounding the shoulder joint. As the body overreacts to the inflammation, it sends ‘switch off’ signals to the muscles resulting in diminished arm movements. Within just a few weeks, the arm can become ‘frozen’ and impossible to lift beyond 40°.

There are various risk factors increasing the likelihood of some people getting Frozen Shoulder. Diabetics are considered at more risk of developing the condition and it is estimated that between 10-20% of diabetics are affected.

It has been suggested that the condition diabetes can make connective tissue thicker which has a negative effect on circulation.

Pain and discomfort

Osteopathy can help to reduce the pain and discomfort associated with Frozen Shoulder. It can also improve the movement range experienced by sufferers. Using specific manipulations, an osteopath will promote the body’s own healing mechanisms and help to restore flexibility.

Exercise is key to any rehabilitation programme and sufferers will usually be recommended to perform gentle stretching exercises at home to keep the shoulder joint mobile. Lack of movement can make the shoulder stiffness worse.

If you suspect you’re suffering with Frozen Shoulder, seek help immediately. Osteopathic treatment can be much more effective if treatment is sought soon after the onslaught of problems.

What is Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction and can osteopathy help?

Tue, 13 Oct 2020 19:17:38 GMT

Will osteopathy help Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction

The Sacroiliac joint or SIJ joint as it is known plays an important function in the movement of our bodies, acting as a lever to enable us to twist when we move our legs. Without these joints and the pubic symphysis our pelvis would be vulnerable to fracture and less flexible.

The SIJ joint is the area where the sacrum and the ilium bones join. The sacrum supports the spine and is strengthened by an ilium either side. As humans we have two SIJ joints, one on each side to form the rear part of the pelvic girdle.

The main purpose of the joint is to connect the spine and the pelvis. There is little movement at the sacroiliac joint itself. Another very important function is to provide shock absorption for the spine.

Who is prone to suffer?

Sacroiliac pain can be experienced by anyone but especially older people and those who play sport. It is usually located on the left or right side of the lower back and is sometimes experienced as a band of pain across the lower back area.

The level of pain or discomfort reported differs from individual to individual. Some sufferers describe the sensation as more of an ache while others say it is a sharp pain. Both usually restrict movement.

S acroiliac joint pain radiate out into the buttocks and lower back and can frequently release pain signals to the front of the groin area and testicles.

Diagnosis

Sacroiliac injury can be very difficult to diagnose because its symptoms are similar to many other back injuries. Sufferers sometimes report experiencing lower limb pain which can be mistaken for sciatica (sciatica is a common form of back pain caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve).

The condition is also confused with spine complaints such as disc herniation and facet syndrome. A true diagnosis is only achieved through physical examination to determine the source of the pain being experienced.

There are four typical causes for Sacroiliac joint pain; traumatic, biomechanical, hormonal and inflammatory joint disease.

Trauma often occurs from an impact injury such as landing hard on the buttocks. Such an injury usually causes damage to the ligaments which play a supportive role to the joint.

Biomechanical injuries are injuries relating to movement and can emerge over time or when an individual suddenly steps up activity level or tries a new sport. Common biomechanical SIJ injuries include a difference in leg lengths or a twisted pelvis.

Hormonal causes of SIJ pain frequently occur during pregnancy when the ligaments of the pelvis become softer and widens in preparation for birth. This stretches the ligaments and in combination with the increase weight and pressure on the spine can lead to injury and pain.

Different types of arthritis such as Ankylosing spondylitis can affect the bones and joints at the base of the spine where it connects with the pelvis, causing the SI joint to become swollen and inflamed.

Osteopathy can help to improve SIJ pain through soft tissue massage of the local muscles especially low back and buttocks, on occasion manipulation to the low back is of benefit and in all cases. Importantly, these techniques will be supported with a physical therapy exercise programme which will play an important role in the healing process.

What’s the different between osteopathic and chiropractic therapy

Tue, 13 Oct 2020 19:08:51 GMT

Are there differences between osteopathic and chiropractic therapy?

People often use the terms osteopathic and chiropractic therapy interchangeably, as if they mean exactly the same thing. While it is true that osteopathic care shares many similarities with chiropractic therapy, there are also differences and each approach is unique. So what’s the difference between osteopathic and chiropractic therapy?

They both focus on how the body works, but in chiropractic therapy much more attention is given to the function of the spine to promote good health.

Both Chiropractors and Osteopaths concentrate on achieving pain relief and promoting injury recovery. They will do this through spine and joint adjustments, massage and exercise to encourage healing in conjunction with diet and lifestyle changes.

Although still recognising the importance of the spine and muscular system in good health, an osteopath places much more emphasis on the body as a whole to identify the source of the complaint.

Osteopathy can be beneficial for a host of reasons non-related to the muscular system including respiratory problems, digestive disorders and the treatment of infants and babies with the use of Cranial Osteopathy.

One of the primary goals of an osteopath is to restore or improve blood flow, this has the benefits of reducing inflammation and promoting healing of damaged tissue. Techniques such as massage, physical therapy and body adjustments are used to free the body from pain and discomfort.

Both professionals will subject a person’s body to joint manipulations to improve the existing range of motion to normal, but unlike chiropractors, an osteopath may use a more gentler adjustment approach. They also use a variety of supportive techniques in addition to manipulation from stretching and pressure through to mobilisation.

Osteopaths and chiropractors usually identify the root of a problem by a visual inspection/physical examination. Your Osteopath will also, if required refer you for other tests by qualified professionals eg x-rays and MRIs for information on a patient’s complaint.

Usually, osteopathic treatment sessions last longer than those with a chiropractor and a patient will generally require less visits, spaced over a longer period of time.

Both these effective treatments can be highly beneficial for the relief of pain. If you’re not sure whether the treatment can help you, call us to discuss.

There’s really no need to suffer in silence, help is out there. Book an appointment with us.

How many osteopathic sessions do I need

Tue, 13 Oct 2020 19:08:49 GMT

Osteopathy can improve a wide range of conditions...

Osteopathy can improve a wide range of conditions, not just back pain and joint pain, but as with any professional medical treatment it’s impossible to provide a generalised figure for the number of sessions required for a specific condition because every individual is different.

An osteopath will be able to gain a good insight into your problem and the work needed to improve it within the initial consultation and will usually give you some guidance as to how many sessions you will need. This first appointment will normally be slightly longer than subsequent treatment sessions, possibly lasting an hour or more. During this first meeting, an osteopath will ask a patient detailed questions about their medical history and any other conditions relating to the problem before carrying out a physical examination. During the physical examination, an osteopath will ask you to carry out various movements so they can assess your posture and ease of movement as well as palpate your joints and ligaments to highlight any weaknesses.

Many osteopaths will be able to successfully treat a recent or acute injury within just one to three sessions. However, older problems or chronic pain is likely to take a little longer to improve and could see a patient completing up to six or more sessions before receiving the full benefits of the treatment. Often when a problem is resolved, a patient will book in for occasional maintenance treatments to help keep them pain and problem free and all osteopaths recommend various strengthening exercises in conjunction with any treatment plan to improve core muscles and aid recovery and healing. Periodic treatment can help to optimise ongoing recovery and protect what has been achieved through initial treatment as well as stop new problems from occurring but not every patient takes this approach and some will wait until the pain returns before making a return visit.

Research has shown that patients who commit themselves to rehabilitation exercises in addition to an osteopathic treatment plan experience a much quicker recovery than those who do not. It’s important that a patient only carries out the strengthening exercises recommended by their osteopath to avoid undoing any of the good work they’ve achieved or exacerbating the problem further.

One person’s back pain might be resolved more speedily than another person suffering the same problem as healing depends on a host of factors including age and general health and wellbeing. However, most patients experience noticeable improvements after two to three sessions and many after just their first introduction to osteopathy.

Can children and babies benefit from osteopathy

Tue, 13 Oct 2020 12:46:28 GMT

Parents are often surprised to learn osteopathy can benefit children

Parents are often surprised when they hear that osteopathy can benefit children. They’re also equally surprised to learn of the vast number of conditions it can assist, not just common movement or joint issues.

Osteopaths treating children

Osteopaths can successfully treat many childhood issues including glue ear, chronic ear infections, sleep problems and headaches. As well as postural problems, movement restrictions and co-ordination issues, osteopathy can also benefit children with developmental issues such as dyslexia and attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Osteopathy concentrates on the structure of the body and movement. In babies and young children, it is especially important to keep a watchful eye on the structure of the body to promote healthy growth and to ensure any disease or disorders are treated at the first opportunity.

There is really no age limit when it comes to osteopathy and children are never too young to benefit from treatment. My youngest patient so far was just two months old at the start of treatment. Research shows that children under the age of five receive the best results so it’s important parents don’t delay seeking treatment if they want to maximise the chances of improvement. Equally, a child doesn’t have to present with specific problems to benefit from osteopathy as the approach is holistic in nature which means it treats the body as a whole and maximises its resources to better cope with illnesses.

Safe for babies

Babies can experience injury before, during and after they are born which can affect their ability to thrive and develop normally. This can cause difficulties with mobility and play and result in developmental delays. Osteopathy can greatly improve these problems and help children to reach their full potential, especially children who have been born prematurely and have significant catching up to do in terms of growth, strength and development of motor skills.

Many babies suffer colic in the early days or wind, teething pain, latching on problems and irritability, all of which can cause sleep disturbances. They might also experience retained moulding and compression as a result of their journey along the birth canal which can inhibit growth and affect brain development as the child matures. All of these common conditions can be alleviated naturally via osteopathy. In addition, as children go through their teenage years, a number of previously undiagnosed issues can become obvious in relation to movement and structure.

The treatment

So what does the treatment involve? The first appointment will usually take longer than subsequent sessions as the osteopath takes a detailed record of the patient’s history, information about the pregnancy and birth, reaching of milestones and general development details. Every baby/child is different and the number of sessions required will depend very much on the circumstances of the case. Most new patients will require a series of sessions, depending on the osteopath’s advice. Parents can assist the osteopath by providing any scans and medical records which provide detailed information on the patient’s history. Treatment will usually be provided on the first visit.

There is an abundance of information available online on the benefits of osteopathy for children. If you would like more information on your child’s specific problems please contact us or ‘Ask Andy’ a question and we will be happy to help.

Is osteopathy safe in pregnancy?

Tue, 13 Oct 2020 12:46:26 GMT

Suffering with back ache during your pregancy?

For many women, their first real experience of back pain and the detrimental effect it can have on day-to-day life is during pregnancy. The increase in weight gain and the position of the baby can place significant pressure on the spine and pelvic muscles and combined with the vast chemical changes that occur during pregnancy, which soften the ligaments, carrying a child for many can be a very uncomfortable experience.

Women experience a range of back-related pain and discomfort during the nine months they carry a baby including lower back pain, pelvic pain, neck, shoulder and upper back pain and sciatica. Osteopathic treatment is a very safe and successful means of alleviating this discomfort and helps the body to better respond and prepare to the changes taking place as it moves through the transitional stages of pregnancy.

Women can gain up to 20lb during pregnancy and this can place the joints under significant physical strain. Osteopathic treatment during pregnancy utilises safe and gentle techniques, helping to align the body so that the pelvis and lower back is in optimum position for giving birth and reducing any discomfort the additional weight is imposing on the body. It can also be used to successfully treat nausea and vomiting, particularly in relation to the strain this can have on the diaphragm and ribs.

Some osteopaths prefer using cranial and functional techniques for expectant mothers but there are a number of safe techniques available. The comfort of the patient is a top consideration and the therapist may use specially designed pregnancy cushions to ensure the patient is comfortable during treatment.

Osteopaths have comprehensive training in the anatomy and biological systems of the body which can be usefully applied to ease the physical stresses and strains of pregnancy. Osteopathic treatment during pregnancy can alleviate a range of ailments associated with carrying a baby including lower back pain , sciatica and pelvic pain , aching legs and feet, neck and shoulder pain, incontinence, insomnia, and shortness of breath.

In addition to helping ease common back-related symptoms during pregnancy, osteopathy can be a useful treatment postnatally, helping to restore and pelvic alignment and movement caused by carrying additional weight as well as helping to alleviate the aches of a poor breastfeeding posture, carrying the baby, bending over the cot and frequently carrying the car seat.

Typically, osteopaths view pregnancy in three stages: pregnancy and the physical pain and discomfort it causes, the demands of the labour process, the recovery of the mother after the birth has taken place.

If you have previously suffered with back problems or have an existing injury prior to falling pregnant, it’s even more important to seek the professional help and expertise of a qualified osteopath as pregnancy is likely to exacerbate the problem.

There is an abundance of information available online on the benefits of osteopathy during and after pregnancy. If you would like more information on any specific problems please contact us here at Osteopathy4Health or ‘ Ask Andy ’ a question and we will be happy to help.

Six tips for maintaining spine health as you age

Sun, 26 Apr 2020 14:35:27 GMT

Help keep your spine healthy as you age

While we might feel full of energy and invincible in our 20s and 30s, the reality is our spines have already started to age.

The level of degenerative change will vary from person to person and most changes are not serious or painful. However, if we don ’ t look after our spine then the process of natural ageing can be compounded which can result in discomfort.

There are a number of ways you can enhance the health of your spine as you get older and most involve simple lifestyle changes that shouldn ’ t be too difficult to incorporate into your everyday life.

Here are 6 of the best tips:

Open up your spine. It’ s difficult to keep your spine moving when you spend long stretches of your day stooped in front of a computer but this is something you really should factor into your day, regardless of how busy you are. Make sure you keep your spine moving by taking short breaks to stretch your muscles. A short walk around the office every couple of hours should keep your spine open.
Complete strengthening exercises every morning and night . A simple exercise is to lie on the floor and make snow angels by moving your arms slowly for short intervals. To increase the intensity of the stretch, place a rolled up towel underneath your spine. If you suffer with any back pain or discomfort, do not complete any exercises until you ’ ve had your spine seen by an Osteopath.
Maintain a healthy weight . Excessive weight is not the exclusive cause of back pain but it can worsen existing conditions. Carrying over and above what is healthy can place your spinal muscles and ligaments under additional stress. To compensate for the extra load, the spine can tilt unevenly which results in an unnatural curvature of the spine over time. This can lead to pain and discomfort over time. Some people who have lost weight have discovered their back condition improves considerably or disappears altogether.
Sit straight. Most office jobs today involve long periods in front of a computer and if this is how you spend your day, try to practice good posture by sitting tall with your shoulders dropped. A good work station will promote this posture and it can be helpful to take up an exercise class like Pilates to help you maintain good posture and strengthen your core. The core muscles are your abdomen and pelvic area and by strengthening them you can reduce the risk of injury.
Support your spine. Women typically experience weakening in the muscles and ligaments surrounding the spine following menopause and occasionally during their periods.You can fight this with exercise, which will strengthen these areas, leaving them less susceptible to trauma. If you ’ re not sure what kind of exercises will help, consult an osteopath or book a consultation with a fitness expert or personal trainer at your local gym.
Stay active. While it can become harder to motivate ourselves as we age, there ’ s never a better time to keep fit and mobile. Swimming and other low impact sports can maintain flexibility and movement in the spine. This is why Osteopaths never prescribe bed rest for those with back pain or injury – it ’ s the surest way of weakening the muscles.

Aside from deterioration through age, a number of degenerative conditions can contribute to spine pain including arthritis. Osteopathy can help relieve pain and symptoms in such conditions, we can also assist with arranging the necessary diagnostic scans.

Can osteopathy help relieve stress

Sun, 02 Feb 2020 15:20:05 GMT

Stress manifests itself in a variety of ways

Stress manifests itself in a variety of ways, not all of them psychological. Many people can suffer with more than one symptom such as insomnia, poor appetite, panic attacks and breathing problems.

The first time some people become aware of the symptoms of stress is when they present themselves to an osteopath with mysterious aches and pains in their neck and shoulders. They find it something of a surprise to learn their physical ailments originate from a stressful working life.

One of the most common side-effects of stress is poor posture. When a person is stressed, they naturally raise their shoulders or hunch forwards which can result in muscle fatigue and aching.

Sitting for long periods of time at a desk in a stressful work environment can cause nerve compression. This can produce pain, a feeling of pins and needles or weakness in the arms and headaches.

How does Osteopathy help?

Osteopathy helps to stimulate the body ’ s natural healing system, prompting it to self-regulate and rebalance the internal functions of the body.

This is achieved by external manipulation techniques which concentrate on parts of the spine responsible for the pain and the specific areas of complaint to reduce muscle tension and soreness and to improve any related symptoms in the digestive and respiratory systems.

In conjunction with specific exercises at home, it is possible to help maintain the body ’ s balance and keep on top of stress.

How do I avoid muscle-related stress in the long-term?

Periodic osteopathic treatment can help to keep the body’s internal systems in harmony which will reduce the secondary effects of stress such as back and neck pain.

However, without long-term changes in your lifestyle, it is impossible to eliminate stress completely and you’re likely to find yourself locked in a process of treating the effects rather than the root cause of the problem.

Why is this so? It is my view that stress detonates a primeval mechanism in the human body called the fight or flight reaction. This response is inherent in all of us and allows us to mobilise energy and adrenalin at a moment’s notice to help us respond to danger or risk.

Work-place stress or indeed any kind of stress whether it is relationships or family pressures can activate this response needlessly when there is no threat to our lives. What happens next is a chemical overload in the nervous system which can constrict the blood vessels and reduce the flow of blood to the soft tissues.

The result of all of this is back and neck pain, not to mention other health problems which can threaten life including heart attack.

So long as the individual remains in a continually stressful environment, this primeval system will continue to be triggered and manifest itself in a variety of problems.

Joints and Flexibility

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 13:46:24 GMT

Osteopaths can prescribe you the appropriate exercises to maintain joint range

Muscular flexibility and joint range of motion are taken for granted by most people and rarely a major focus in fitness and training regimes, yet they are the major precursor to injury and a limiting factor to sporting performance.

To help explain this statement consider why the average golfer cannot play a consistent 18 holes or why a thinly built teenager can drive a ball further than a stocky stronger man? Many golfers will know the answer is ‘timing’ i.e contacting the ball with the sweet spot of the club head at the optimal speed. ‘timing’ is heavily reliant on smooth, coordinated joint motion and hence any resistance from tight muscles and stiff joints is going to effect the timing of the swing. Which is why some golfers improve as they get warmer, others decline as they stiffen up, and a younger more flexible person can connect better with the ball than a stronger but less flexible person.

These same principles can be applied to all sports and explain why not only a more flexible person can perform longer and more consistently but why a less flexible person pushing them self to a high level is at great risk of injury.

Osteopaths use a variety of ‘hands on’ treatment techniques to improve your muscular flexibility and joint range of motion and they will assess and treat not only the area of pain but all those related regions which may have predisposed to the injury or are being affected by it. The benefit of seeing an Osteopath for a sporting injury is that they will identify the cause of the injury, which not only aids full recovery but also greatly reduces the risk of reoccurrence.

Osteopaths will generally prescribe for you the appropriate exercises to maintain joint range of motion and muscular flexibility and where required the relevant strengthening exercises also.

What are the most common causes of back pain

Tue, 16 Aug 2016 13:13:37 GMT

Back pain - it can be unbearable...

Every day GP surgeries are full of people complaining about back pain and discomfort and unfortunately for many it isn’t the first visit. In reality, back pain can be debilitating, severely affecting quality of life and limiting enjoyment of life. If this sounds like your situation, then it’s time to stop putting up with the pain and seek professional help to ease your symptoms.

Common causes of back pain and discomfort

So what are the most common causes of back discomfort? One of the most frequent causes of sudden back pain is injury through sport. Most working adults have limited recreational time and as a result are only able to manage sporadic exercise sessions or activity. While any exercise is better than no exercise at all, irregular training will leave you vulnerable to injury.

Many people injure their back following a spontaneous game of golf or an impromptu game of football with their offspring. This is primarily due to straining and overexerting muscles than are not used to being worked. The best means of defence is to carry out regular exercise to strengthen core muscles which will enable the spine to move more freely and to handle more strenuous exercises. This doesn’t have to involve signing up to an expensive gym membership or hiring a personal trainer, many back strengthening exercises can take place at home with the use of an inflatable exercise ball. Working on your abs will stretch and strengthen your core muscles – as well as increasing your fitness levels which is great for all round health.

Poor lifting technique

Another major cause of back injury is a poor lifting technique. It’s no surprise that many back injuries occur during the weekend when homeowners decide to get to work on their home improvement project or make a start on clearing the garage. By adhering to some simple rules when lifting heavy objects, people can avoid placing their back under excessive strain and suffering the pain and discomfort that such an injury can bring.

Safe lifting involves distributing some of the weight of the object you’re carrying to the legs. Lift by bending your knees and lowering yourself to the ground, always ensuring your back remains straight. Never bend at the waist. The closer the object is to you, the less pressure is placed on your back. Importantly, never turn around, twist or pivot during the lift itself – change direction with your feet not your stomach.

Sitting still

Surprisingly, sitting still can be just as damaging to your spine and back muscles as movement. People spend vast amounts of their day sitting at a computer terminal or driving in the car. Add these hours together and over the course of the week you might have spent more than 50 hours in a sitting position with poor posture. Over time, this will have a negative impact on your back as the discs will be receiving a restricted blood supply. Movement helps to circulate fluid through the discs so to counteract long periods of sitting still, get up and move frequently – even if it’s just to make a cup of tea – so that you are able to stretch your muscles and change positions.

Correct posture

When reading, ensure the book or computer screen is at eye level and never bend or lean over which will cause the spine to bend. Businesses are legally responsible for ensuring the health and safety of their employees and will be only too willing to ensure that your chair adequately supports your back and to identify solutions that will help ease any current back problems. Additionally, consider doing some chair-based exercise to help strengthen your back throughout the working day. A simple but effective exercise is pulling your stomach muscles inwards towards your spine and squeezing in your waist to help strengthen the spine.

Don't suffer in silence

Many people suffer in silence before approaching an osteopath for help in alleviating their condition only to regret not tackling the problem sooner once they receive treatment. Ignoring your symptoms will only make it worse and it’s better to seek help quickly rather than exacerbating the issue.

What are the natural alternatives to painkillers and anti-inflammatories

Thu, 11 Feb 2016 14:51:30 GMT

Most of us take painkillers or anti-inflammatories when we are unwell or in pain

Most of us take painkillers or anti-inflammatories when we are unwell or in pain. But are you taking the most appropriate medicine for your ailment? Are you aware that there are natural alternatives?

The type of medicine you take to treat your pain depends on the type of pain you have. Different painkillers work in different ways and they all have side effects. Therefore it is vital that you weigh up the advantages and disadvantages before simply ‘popping that pill’.

Paracetamol

Paracetamol is used to treat headaches and most non-nerve pains, such as back pain. A safe dose is two tablets up to four times a day if necessary.

However, if your pain is severe, don’t be tempted to take more than the recommended dosage as overdosing on paracetamol can cause serious harm and side effects.

Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen works well in treating inflammatory conditions, such as an injury or arthritis. However, it should not be taken for long periods of time, as this comes with an increased risk of kidney and heart problems, as well as stomach upset and bleeding.

Codeine

Codeine doesn’t tends to be combined with paracetamol (co-codamol), it is an effective, medium strength painkiller. Unfortunately, as with all medium strength painkillers, co-codamol can cause dependency. This means you may feel unwell for a short time when you stop taking them.

Gabapentin and Amitriptyline

Although gabapentin is usually used to treat epilepsy and amitriptyline is primarily a drug for depression, they are both effective in treating pain caused by nerve damage or sensitivity, such as sciatica or shingles. You aren’t able to buy these over the counter; they must be prescribed by a GP.

Morphine

Morphine and drugs such as fentanyl and oxycodone are the strongest painkillers available and should only be used to treat severe pain. As such, they can only be prescribed by a GP or pain specialist and their dosage and your subsequent response to the drugs will be monitored closely.

What about natural painkillers?

Endorphins

Endorphins are the body’s natural pain relievers, working by blocking pain signals from reaching the brain. Endorphins also help to alleviate stress, anxiety and depression, which often go hand in hand with chronic pain. Simply get your blood pumping – exercise will release endorphins into your system.

Heat therapy

Applying heat to the affected area can help ease your pain. This is because heat increases the flow of oxygen and healing nutrients to any damaged areas, as well as suppressing pain signals being sent to your brain. You can use a hot water bottle, electric or gel-filled pad, or simply a hot bath.

Using ice

Using a cold compress can help tp ease the pain.

Stretch

Stretching out the effected area has been known to help ease the pain.

Sleep

It is vital that you get enough sleep in order to manage pain and promote healing. Try to exercise regularly as a physically tired body tends to lead to deeper, more restorative sleep.

Think yourself better

A positive attitude can make a massive difference to your physical wellbeing. The human body has an infinite capacity for healing so techniques such as meditation, hypnosis and guided imagery can help your mind and body relax and change the way you view pain and healing. These can also help with restorative sleep.

Flat feet and back pain

Tue, 26 Jan 2016 14:39:22 GMT

The arch provides support and stability to the body

The normal human foot has an arch. This arch provides support and stability to the body. It also acts as a shock absorber when walking, running and jumping.

So what happens if your arches are too low? Flat feet can be genetic – the way your bones form in childhood as they grew – or a result of injury to the foot, commonly to the ligaments that attach the various bones together.

People with flat feet may experience no complications. Others may suffer multiple problems, including back pain. It is likely that you will also have foot pain, particularly around where the arch is meant to be. You may find it difficult to stand on your toes or move your heel properly. You might also find that your foot often swells around the ankle. The pain you feel may limit physical exercise and sporting activities.

Any back pain you feel is down to the fact that your feet aren’t providing the right level of stability to your upper body. This means that your back muscles are having to work extra hard to compensate.

This pain is most likely to occur when you are standing, walking or running and you will find that it eases when your body is at rest.

Other ailments than can occur because of flat feet include:

Shin splints – inflammation in the shinbone from overuse during running without proper form of foot
Bunions – people with flat feet often walk with an unnatural pressure on the joint at the base of the big toe, this then can turn inwards.
Tendinitis – tendinitis from flat foot often affects the Achilles tendon due to increased stress placed on the heel and ankle
Hammertoe – people with flat feet often have weak foot muscles, which may cause hammertoe – a toe with a claw-like appearance – to develop
Calluses – friction from rubbing the inside of the shoe can cause calluses to occur
Lower extremity pain, due to the compensation required by the body to compensate for flat feet, you can develop pain to the ankle, knee, hip and pelvis.

Therefore it is important that if you have flat feet, you learn how to deal with the condition in order to alleviate back pain and any other associated symptoms.

What can be done?

Unfortunately, unless they are caused by a broken bone or tear in one of the tendons, you are unlikely to be able to have surgery to correct low arches or flat feet. However, there are orthotic devices available such as shoe inserts called Orthotics that can add support, as well as exercise designed to relieve pain in your foot, improve balance and enable you to participate more in physical activities.

Stretching

Certain stretches may help to alleviate the pain of flat feet by targeting the muscles in your legs and back. Stretching those muscles will also strengthen them, giving them additional support and flexibility and therefore, reducing pain and discomfort. For example, simply sitting or standing and arching your back for ten to fifteen seconds each time can really make a difference.

Calf stretches can stretch and strengthen the Achilles tendon (it is believed that flat feet may be the result of a shortened Achilles tendon).

Speak to an osteopath

If you believe you have flat feet and are suffering chronic pain because of them, make sure you speak to a professional osteopath to get the right advice and support. I personally offer Orthotic therapy to help alleviate the associated pain caused.

You can contact Andy Caughey , an Osteopath based in Poole, Dorset

Is osteopathy available on the NHS

Mon, 11 Jan 2016 14:26:57 GMT

The majority of people aren’t prepared to wait for osteopathic treatment through the NHS

Many medical treatments are available through the NHS. However, complementary and alternative medicines such as osteopathy, acupuncture, homeopathy and chiropractic are not termed ‘mainstream healthcare’. This means that the availability of these types of treatments are very limited on the NHS.

Ultimately, it is down to your local Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) to decide whether to fund osteopathy in your area. You can speak to your GP or CCG to see whether osteopathy is available to you. However, even if your area is funded, it may not give you immediate relief. Because osteopathy is so limited on the NHS, be prepared to be at the bottom of a very long waiting list.

What about the private option?

The majority of people aren’t prepared to wait for osteopathic treatment through the NHS, and opt to pay privately. Fees range from £35 to £50 for a 30 to 40 minute session; your first session is likely to cost a little more and take longer as your chosen osteopath will undertake a full assessment in order to determine a treatment plan.

It is important to be aware that even if you decide to go private, osteopathy might not be a suitable treatment. Your osteopath may also ask you to visit your GP or have further medical tests after your initial session; this is because your osteopath is fully committed to doing everything possible to diagnose a problem before commencing any treatment.

If you do decide on the private option, it is essential that you ensure your chosen osteopath is fully qualified and registered with the GOsC (General Osteopathic Council).

How do I choose an osteopath?

At the moment, osteopathy and chiropractic are the only complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practitioners to be regulated in the same way as conventional medicine. It is a legal requirement for all qualified osteopaths to be registered with the GOsC. It is illegal for anyone to call themselves an osteopath or offer osteopathic treatments without registration.

This means that you can use the General Osteopathic Council’s website to find a registered osteopath in your area.

Why is so important that I use a registered osteopath?

The General Osteopathic Council is a statutory professional regulation. This regulation provides patients with the peace of mind that all registered practitioners are properly qualified. You can be assured that your chosen osteopath follows the codes and standards set by the GOsC’s professional regulators, and practice in a safe, ethical manner.

An osteopath registered with the GOsC must meet certain standards, including:

• Rigorous training – a four or five year degree plus a minimum of 1,000 hours of clinical training

• Osteopathic practice standards – ongoing standards an osteopath must meet to ensure quality care for patients

• Continuing professional development – registered osteopaths must update their training on a regular basis

• Revalidation – osteopaths will need to prove that they are up-to-date on all treatments and remain ‘fit to practice’.

You can find me, Andrew Caughey, on the General Osteopathic Council website by clicking here.

What does an osteopath do

Wed, 23 Dec 2015 16:39:09 GMT

An osteopath aims to relieve muscle tension, enhance joint mobility and increase blood supply to connective tissue and aid healing

We answer those frequently asked questions when it comes to Osteopathy, and who and how it can benefit

You may have suffered an injury, or live with a chronic condition, which, after doing some research, you’ve found may be alleviated with the help of an osteopath.

But what is osteopathy? What does an osteopath do?

Osteopathy works on the principle that in order to remain well, a person’s bones, muscles, ligaments and connective tissue need to function together smoothly.

An osteopath aims to relieve muscle tension, enhance joint mobility and increase blood supply to connective tissue and aid healing. An osteopath uses physical manipulation, massage and stretching to detect, treat and prevent a wide range of health problems. No drugs or surgery are used.

An osteopath can help with:

General aches and pains
Joint pain, including hip and knee pain
Arthritic pain
General, acute and chronic back pain
Neck pain
Headaches and migraines
Frozen shoulder, shoulder and elbow pain, tennis elbow
Circulatory pain
Cramp
Lumbago
Sciatica
Muscle spasms
Neuralgia
Fibromyalgia
Rheumatic pain
Inability to relax
Sports Injuries

What happens during an osteopathy session?

At your initial osteopathy session, you will be asked about any symptoms you have, your general health and any other useful information, such as medical care you may already be receiving. Your osteopath will then carry out a physical examination to detect any issues that require treatment. This can include any areas of tenderness, weakness, strain or restriction in the body.

You may be asked to perform simple movements and it is likely that you will be asked to remove clothing in order for the osteopath to examine particular areas of your body. This will only be done with your consent.

If osteopathy can help reduce or alleviate the problem, a treatment plan is then discussed.

Techniques

An osteopath uses a mixture of gentle and sharper techniques to restore your body’s normal function and stability. These techniques assist in reducing pain, encouraging blood flow and improving movement, and include:

Massaging muscles
Stretching stiff joints
Moving your body around its usual range of motion
Sharp, high velocity thrusts to the spine or joint affected

Is osteopathy treatment painful?

Most patients find osteopathy to be gentle yet effective. There are some who are in a great deal of pain when they arrive for treatment, which means that in order to alleviate that pain, they will be in some discomfort.

However, it is not unusual to feel a little sore or stiff after a treatment – this is more likely to be the case if you

are being treated for a painful or inflamed injury. You will be given advice on any techniques or exercises you can do between osteopathy sessions to reduce any pain and aid recovery.

You may hear a click or crack during an osteopathic session; this is when the osteopath makes sharp adjustments to a joint. Again, this is usually completely painless.

How many sessions will I need?

It does depend on the type and severity of the condition but generally, osteopathic treatment involves 4-6 sessions, you may be advised however to have some maintenance treatments afterwards if appropriate.

Autumn garden tidy up resulted in an injury

Tue, 03 Nov 2015 16:16:58 GMT

Many of us pretend that our gardens don’t exist for at least six months out of the year

This Autumn has been pretty warm, so gardening has been carrying on. The last lawn to be mowed, weeds pulled, plants watered, patio jet washed…

Some of you may tend to your garden all year round. You may spend just a few hours each week, pottering about and keeping on top of those little tasks so that your lawn always looks healthy. Your shrubs are always well tended. Your borders are always neat.

However, many of us pretend that our gardens don’t exist for at least six months out of the year. We hope that our plants will survive the winter by doing a bit autumn tidy up – spending entire weekends mowing, planting, digging, weeding and watering.

Gardening is great exercise. It’s fun, it’s healthy, it’s active and you can do it at any age. However, if you overdo the gardening, particularly if the rest of your week is spent in a sedentary job, expecting your body to suddenly perform strenuous physical exercise is asking for trouble.

Choosing the right tools is important; the wrong ones will likely stress your muscles. But approximately 75% of the pain we suffer is down to bad postural habits and the wrong attitude. Do a little gardening often – an hour here and there each day – and the garden may take a little while to get ready for winter. However, spend all weekend trying to transform your overgrown garden into a tranquil paradise and you could spend the next week in excruciating pain!

Preventing back injuries

Heavy lifting is usually the reason for any back injury. Avoid lifting any heavy objects alone. Ask someone to help and if you are having to transport it any sort of distance, use a wheelbarrow to get it from A to B. If you do have to carry it yourself, keep the item as close to your body as possible whilst lifting. Carry it in front of you and keep your spine as straight as possible. Or if you can, roll the object instead.

Repetitive strain injuries

Gardening can often result in a repetitive strain injury (RSI). The most important rule is ‘never work through pain’. If you already have a bad back it’s not a good idea to suddenly spend hours bending over, pulling out weeds in the garden.

Listen to your body. Stop if it hurts. RSI often returns; if it is not managed and if you push yourself beyond your body’s limits you could end up in chronic pain.

Prevention is better than cure

Make sure you practice healthy habits, use the correct tools and if you are concerned about an injury you have suffered through gardening, or believe that you have a repetitive strain injury, please get in touch. Taking pain killers is not the answer; an osteopath can correct problems if caught early enough.

What is Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)

Thu, 22 Oct 2015 15:00:18 GMT

RSI encompasses a range of injuries to muscles, nerves and tendons in the upper limbs

Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) encompasses a range of injuries to muscles, nerves and tendons in the upper limbs. These are all caused by repetitive movement and overuse.

Usually, the condition affects the forearm, elbow, wrist, hands, neck and shoulders and can cause significant pain. However, the degree of discomfort varies between individuals.

Other symptoms of RSI can include tenderness, stiffness, a tingling sensation or numbness and cramp in any of the joints above.

Office workers spend a large proportion of their day sitting at a desk doing repetitive tasks such as typing or talking on the phone. This means they are at increased risk of developing an RSI. You can also suffer an RSI through sports such as tennis.

What are the risks of suffering an RSI?

Since an RSI is usually caused by doing an activity repeatedly, there are various factors which could increase your risk. The three primary causes of RSI are poor posture, poor technique and overuse. Other risks include:

Stress as this causes tension in your back and neck, which can lead to injury. Working in a high -pressure environment is a significant cause of stress.
Cold temperatures
Using a computer for more than two to four hours a day
Not taking enough regular breaks
Have a sedentary lifestyle with little if any exercise

If you ’ re suffering with symptoms that could be due to employment-related RSI, speak to your line manager or employer about your concerns.

Alternatively, consult your occupational health representative about your symptoms who will be able to ensure your work environment is suitable and/or modify your tasks to help relieve your symptoms.

Every employer has a statutory duty to prevent work-based RSI and offer help to anyone who has the condition to stop it getting worse.

Most companies carry out an initial risk assessment when you join a company to ensure your working environment is comfortable and suitable for your needs.

Depending on the severity of your problem and whether or not it continues despite alterations to the way you work, it ’ s advisable to see an Osteopath.

Sometimes it is necessary to stop doing an activity altogether to stop the symptoms.

Can osteopathy help relieve RSI?

Osteopathy can help to relieve the pain and symptoms of RSI through soft tissue stretches, strengthening exercises and joint mobilisation.

Treatment not only promotes recovery, it can also help to minimise recurrence. Your osteopath will be able to devise a treatment plan based on your individual needs.

New European standards agreed for osteopathy

Sat, 03 Oct 2015 13:46:22 GMT

From 2016, osteopaths working in the UK will be subject to a new set of pan-European standards designed to improve patient care

In the past, standards of osteopathic care have varied from country to country which has resulted in the need for more consistent levels of service to increase patient safety.

The Forum for Osteopathic Regulation in Europe (FORE) has been working in conjunction with the European Federation of Osteopaths to fund and develop blanket standards across Europe for the profession with the European Committee for Standardisation (CEN).

CEN is the lead organisation for developing standardisation across Europe whose members agreed three years ago to create a project committee to build a European standard relating to osteopathic services.

As a result of this work, a new set of standards have now been agreed and will come into force across Europe from 2016.

What do the new standards mean for patients?

Patients will not notice any different in the treatment they receive. The guidelines are for practising osteopaths to adhere to and relate to both patient safety and high standards of care.

The new regulations do not replace existing laws in the administering of osteopathy but it will set in stone minimum standards expected of osteopaths operating in a country which currently has no form of professional regulation. The standards will address expected levels of education, training and practice for any osteopath.

The move has been warmly welcomed by the General Osteopathic Council , the UK ’ s professional body for registered osteopaths. It is seen as a positive step to positioning osteopathy at the forefront of primary healthcare.

What is current UK legislation relating to osteopathy?

Osteopaths are legally obliged to be registered with the General Osteopathic Council before practicing in the UK.

The General Osteopathic Council regulates osteopathy in the UK, working closely with members of the osteopathic industry and the wider public to enhance safety standards.

Any osteopath practicing within the UK and who is not registered with the General Osteopathic Council is committing an offence for which there are serious repercussions.

Members of the public who want to check whether the osteopath they have been recommended is registered to work in the UK can do so by visiting the General Osteopathic Council’s website.

Further information including how long an osteopath has been registered and their clinical experience is also available in the section called ‘ Practitioner Details ” .

How can I protect my spine during pregnancy

Thu, 03 Sep 2015 13:18:35 GMT

Pregnancy can take its toll on the body

Pregnancy takes its toll on the body and many women begin to suffer back and neck problems for the first time in their lives.

Carrying a baby can alter the natural shape of your back, causing the lower back to flatten slightly or arching it. This, coupled with the hormonal changes that occur while pregnant, can cause additional movement in your back and pelvis.

The growth of the uterus can hinder the support usually offered by the back, stomach and pelvic muscles and this sometimes leads to pain and inflammation.

During pregnancy, the pregnancy hormones oestrogen and relaxin make the ligaments around your pelvis more stretchy which lessens the support. As the baby grows, you will become less flexible and it will be more difficult to twist or bend forwards.

These five tips will help you to negotiate the physical demands of pregnancy while protecting your spine:

When carrying or lifting while pregnant, hold it close to your core. If you ’ re carrying grocery shopping, try to carry a bag in each hand to distribute the weight evenly. If you have other children, try to reduce the time you spend carrying or lifting them up. If they need to be picked up, encourage them to stand on the sofa to prevent you from bending down.

Continue to exercise during pregnancy. Many muscle injuries can be avoided by keeping your core strength to an optimum level. You don ’ t need to overdo it, but regular gentle exercise such as swimming and walking can really help prevent back and neck pain.

Ensure you wear the right shoes. Shoes should not only be comfortable but also protect the spine from the impact of ground contact. Flats are ideal for pregnancy but remember flip flops provide little protection of the spine from pounding concrete.

Maintain good posture. Try to pull in your stomach to straighten your back and make yourself taller. Ensure you stretch when you ’ ve been sitting or standing for prolonged periods of time to loosen the muscles. Many women develop a flatter back during pregnancy which can cause pain. By bending backwards periodically you will help to keep your blood flow circulating.

Eat a healthy balanced diet. Weight gain is unavoidable during pregnancy but having a high body mass index (BMI) is linked with higher instances of back and pelvic pain. Exercising and eating healthily will ensure you will not be carrying any more than necessary for the growth of your baby.

If you are suffering back problems during pregnancy, osteopathy is a safe and effective means of alleviating these kinds of symptoms. If you want more information about the procedures, contact a professional osteopath who will be able to explain the process.

Is your back pain down to stress

Thu, 03 Sep 2015 13:07:45 GMT

Are you making the problem worse

According to a recently published paper, the leading cause of disability worldwide is back pain. The Global Burden of Disease Study found that back pain remains the leading cause of breakdown and many noted physiotherapists believe that there is a definite link between this epidemic and our emotional wellbeing.

Sadly, some therapists can be dismissive of the ties between emotional and physical health but it is becoming increasingly apparent that a patient’s psyche has a lot to do with the pain they feel. For example, if you are a ‘catastrophiser’ – someone who tends to think and prepare for the worst – you are much more susceptible to developing chronic pain.

Renowned physiotherapist and best-selling author Sarah Key explains, “ Now emotional problems, I don’t think cause a back problem out of thin air, I really don’t. But I think they magnify it and I think that if you are a catastrophiser… [it makes it] very hard to get better. ”

International organisations such as the Anxiety and Depression Association of America agree that anxiety is common in people with chronic pain, in particular migraines, back pain, arthritis and fibromyalgia.

Plus researchers are getting closer to determining the biological reason for this association between anxiety and chronic pain. A team at the University of Toronto studied the connections between neurons in a region of the brain called the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). They found that persistent pain can become chronic because over time, anxiety can intensify pain and strengthen neurons, which become increasingly efficient in transmitting pain signals.

This study will undoubtedly lead to future research about the best way to therapeutically treat chronic pain. Dr Beth Darnell , Stanford University Clinical Associate Professor in the Division of Pain Medicine, commented, “ Their results also underscore the importance of non-pharmaceutical psycho-behavioral treatments for chronic pain and also for anxiety. When people learn skills to decrease the physiological markers of anxiety or stress, they are simultaneously treating pain. ”

Are you making the problem worse?

We all know that tension and anxiety can make us tense. Prolonged emotional stress can result in chronically clenched muscles that simply don’t know how to relax anymore. It is easy to start trying to protect your backs if you are concerned that there is something wrong. However, by tensing up and curtailing or avoiding movement through fear, you can end up creating the very thing you are trying to avoid: chronic lower back pain.

In reality, as long as your Osteopath advises, having confidence in your back’s strength and robustness is essential. As long as you don’t overdo it, the day-to-day movements of lifting, carrying and bending keep the cartilage circulation pumping, bones strong, tendons at the right length and muscles strong and balanced.

Are you living with chronic pain?

There are ways that an Osteopath can help you manage chronic pain and significantly increase quality of life. If you have any specific questions, you can call 01277 734211.

What is a herniated disc

Wed, 29 Jul 2015 14:11:03 GMT

Many people with back pain or problems suffer in silence

Many people with back pain or problems suffer in silence, in the hope that eventually their symptoms will spontaneously resolve. Others might not experience any symptoms for years until eventually pain or discomfort begins to emerge.

A herniated disc is a common back complaint that causes severe pain in some patients and no symptoms in others. Sometimes people have no idea they have a herniated disc until a spinal x-ray highlights a problem.

A spinal disc is a soft cushion fixed between the vertebrae – the individual bones which form the spinal column. As a disc begins to degenerate, the inner centre of the cushion can leak through to the tougher exterior of the disc.

The outer core of the intervertebral disc is directly beneath the spinal nerve root so this condition can place pressure on the nerve resulting in irritation.

The level of pain and discomfort varies from patient to patient. Some experience no symptoms while others find the condition very uncomfortable to live with. However, the good news is most people who have a herniated disc don ’ t need to undergo surgery to resolve the problem.

The majority of herniated discs occur in the lower spine but they can also occur in the neck.

What are the symptoms of a herniated disc?

Arm or leg pain

Pain or symptoms will vary depending on location of the herniation. If the problem is in the lower back, pain will usually be experienced in the buttocks, thigh and calf and could even involve the foot. On the other hand, if the herniation is in the neck, pain will be most severe in the shoulder or arm and could shoot through either limb with certain movement or simply a cough or sneeze.

Numbness or tingling

A disc herniation can often result in a tingling sensation in the area of the body affected.

Weakness

Those nerves affected by the impairment can often weaken and this might cause sufferers to stumble or struggle to lift and hold items.

What causes disc herniation?

In most cases, disc herniation is caused by gradual wear and tear as a person ages. Spinal discs lose some of their fluid as a person ages which cause them to become more restricted and at risk of tearing.

However, twisting and turning while lifting and incorrect lifting of heavy objects can cause damage. Excess body weight can also place additional stress on the discs in the lower back, resulting in herniation.

The majority of people will recover from a disc herniation in a month to six weeks.

Some patients choose to use the services of an osteopath in an effort to improve the healing process and also to provide pain relief. Such a technique will involve spinal manipulation in conjunction with general exercise to strengthen the muscles surrounding the herniation.

If you suspect you have a disc herniation make an appointment. A physical examination and knowledge of your medical history should be enough for us to diagnose the condition and then you can consider your treatment options.

What is nerve pain

Fri, 29 May 2015 14:19:53 GMT

Your nervous system is responsible for carrying messages from the brain to different parts of your body

What is nerve pain?

Nerve damage is a common cause of chronic pain and can significantly reduce an individual ’ s quality of life.

There are a number of reasons why damage to a nerve can occur including certain medical conditions such as diabetes or injury.

Your nervous system is responsible for carrying messages from the brain to different parts of your body. It helps to regulate breathing, control your muscles and temperature regulation.

The human body comprises three types of nerves. Autonomic nerves regulate the involuntary or partially voluntary activities of your body such as your heart rate, digestion process and blood pressure.

Motor nerves are responsible for controlling your movements by carrying messages from your brain and spinal cord to your muscles and finally sensory nerves relate information from your skin and muscles back to your spinal cord and brain. These messages are then translated to enable you to feel pain and other sensations.

Nerve pain can occur when nerves become compressed, inflamed or trapped. This might cause a variety of symptoms such as a feeling of pins and needles in the affected area, weakness, numbness and debilitating pain.

Nerves are present throughout the human body and so it follows that nerve pain can also be experienced anywhere. However, most commonly people complain of nerve pain in their neck, spine and buttock area.

Nerves can become trapped or compressed when small joints within the spine become inflamed. This can be caused by tight muscles, bulging spinal discs, inflamed ligaments and pregnancy. The latter is caused as a result of weight gain.

Symptoms usually vary depending on the nerve that is damaged.

Damage to motor nerves, for example, might cause the sufferer to feel weakness, paralysis, twitching or muscle wasting; and sensory damage typically causes pain, numbness, a burning sensation, tingling or sensitivity.

Many people turn to osteopathy to help relieve their nerve pain . This form of treatment will seek to reverse nerve compression by articulation and manipulation techniques to increase the gaps between the vertebrae. Treatment might also involve muscle relaxation techniques of the muscles responsible for compressing the nerves that produce pain signals.

An osteopath will usually agree a programme of treatment depending on your individual circumstances.

To receive a specific diagnosis for the nerve pain, it is always advisable to contact your Osteopath in the first instance so you can undertake the necessary medical checks that will ensure you receive the most appropriate care and attention

I hope you found this article useful. Nerve pain can severely limit enjoyment of life but the good news is that in most cases, this pain can be alleviated with the right help.

Five reasons why taking your lunch break could reduce your risk of a back injury

Fri, 20 Mar 2015 12:25:12 GMT

British workers are legally entitled to a 20-minute break when working for periods of six hours or more

Modern employees are programmed to work longer and harder than ever before. But what is the result of this on our short and long-term health and are we setting ourselves up for an unhealthy future?

A new survey by international healthcare group Bupa has discovered that less than one in three (29%) workers take the lunch break they are entitled to each day. The majority of these – 43% – believe they are too busy with work to stop.

British workers are legally entitled to a 20-minute break when working for periods of six hours or more. However, Bupa ’ s survey of 2,000 full-time workers found that almost two thirds (64%) claim they are not always able to take this.

Most worrying is the survey’s findings that 28% of workers never take a break of any kind during their working day.

There are quite obvious health consequences for avoiding adequate breathing space at work, many of which can impact on the health of the spine. When you consider that the average working week is more than 37 hours, that ’ s a lot of time to be sitting still in one position.

The following points reveal why it’s so important to take a regular stretch of the legs while at work and how it could reduce your risk of injury.

1 Incorre ct posture while sitting at your office desk can cause spinal damage over time. This damage might take many years to develop but eventually the pain could become severe and restrict movement as well as result in long-term sick leave. Even if you cannot commit yourself to a full hour lunch break, take regular stretching breaks and walk around the office to free up your muscles and ligaments. Movement helps to promote blood flow which is essential for healthy muscles.

2 Stress can be attributed to a range of diseases and general ill-health, including injury in the muscular skeletal system. Much of this is down to the ‘fight or flight’ response. This term describes a primeval mechanism in the body that enables humans to mobilise a lot of energy and adrenalin very quickly in order to cope with threats to survival. Occupational stress can trigger this system despite there being no threat of danger which causes a chemical overload in the nervous system. This can cause constriction in blood vessels and reduced blood flow to soft tissues resulting in secondary back and neck pain. A lunch break can help employees to manage stress levels more effective to avoid the misfiring of this system.

3 Without adequate nutrition during the working day, it’s only natural that energy levels will falter. This can result in a tired, slumping or leaning posture which can have serious consequences for the health of your spine, especially if you are remaining in the same position for long periods of time. A number of foods have been linked to improved concentration including seeds and fish and the act of taking yourself off for an hour to relax will inevitably leave your feeling fresher when you return.

4 Exercise is a great way of remaining healthy and strengthening your muscles. If you’re the office worker who is always complaining of no time to get to the gym then why not squeeze some exercise into your lunch break? Exercise itself reduces stress – another important factor in back injuries – and the right kind of physical activity will increase your blood flow and flexibility.

5 Keeping active helps you to remain a healthy weight. Many office workers complain of not being able to shift the bulge because they are always sat at their desks. Taking a 40-minute stroll or power walk to the park to eat your sandwiches will help to burn calories and reduce weight gain through inactivity. A healthy weight will also help protect your back from injury both now and in the future.

While office workloads are not likely to change in the near future, employees can – and should – become more protective of their breaks and take their legal entitlement.

I hope these reasons have given you food for thought on why it might be healthier to take a real break.

How does stress contribute to back pain

Sat, 03 Jan 2015 12:37:31 GMT

Most of the population will experience back pain at one time or another

Most of the population will experience back pain at one time or another. While many episodes of back pain can be attributed to getting older, some can originate from stress.

It is a worrying fact that more and more of our lives are spent in the office.

The gap between clocking on and clocking off is getting increasing wider and modern workers are now too busy to even take a lunch break.

What kind of impact does this have on health? Well it’s not particularly positive and judging from my own experience as an osteopath, it is having quite serious repercussions on spinal health.

While stress itself doesn’t directly cause back pain, it can play a secondary role by causing behaviour that can lead to back discomfort.

The chief behaviour I'm talking about is the way in which stress and anxiety drastically increases muscle tension in the neck which can result in mild to severe back pain over time.

People deal with stress differently. For some, it affects skin while others hold their stress in their minds and encounter problems sleeping. For those who hold it in their bodies, it can trigger back or neck pain.

Stress can cause knots in the shoulder and upper back muscles – any massage therapist will tell you that. Individuals with stressful jobs will often have more knots and pain than those who don’t.

Aside from this, it initiates what I call the ‘ fight or flight ’ response needlessly. ‘ Fight or flight ’ is a primeval mechanism in the human body which allows us to mobilise a lot of energy and adrenalin almost instantaneously to help us cope with threats of danger or risk.

How does this relate to modern workers? Well, occupational stress can activate this system even though there is no fight for survival or imminent danger.

The result is a chemical overload in the nervous system which causes constriction in the blood vessels and reduced blood flow to soft tissues. All of this can cause secondary neck and back pain.

If the stressful situation continues, then unfortunately the individual is likely to miss-fire this system many more times and experience a vicious cycle of stress and back pain.

Any kind of intervention including osteopathy will only provide respite until the next episode of stress.

If people are serious about ending their stress-related back discomfort and mobility issues, then they need to manage their stress levels more effectively and take greater care of their health.

While osteopathy can certainly help to ease any discomfort, a patient has to be realistic about the origin of their problems and make changes to their lifestyle which will reduce their stress levels in the long-term.

Stress is thought to play a part in general ill-health and there’s no doubt that it can have a serious psychological impact on its sufferers.

Exercise is a popular way to de-stress and it has obvious health benefits too. But no two people are the same and what eases one person ’ s stress will have no effect on another – it ’ s about finding what's right for you.

Back pain during pregnancy and after

Mon, 24 Nov 2014 16:20:34 GMT

Being a parent is a physically demanding job…

Not only are you on your feet for more than 12 hours a day, your body has to cope with the strain of carrying your infant or toddler for most of it.

Unsurprisingly, many new mothers and fathers begin to complain of back pain within a few months of their little one’s arrival.

But there are ways to improve your posture and body mechanics to reduce pain and injury. Regular sessions with an osteopath will also ensure that any weakness is identified and corrected before long-term problems develop.

Back pain during pregnancy

Women are advised to take it easy in the weeks after their baby is born. Fluctuating hormones in the latter stages of pregnancy cause ligaments and joints to temporarily relax. This makes them more prone to injury in the weeks following the birth.

Cesarean section

If you’ve had a cesarean section then it’s very important to follow your doctor’s advice and avoid lifting activity or exercise. Your body needs time to recover from the surgery and over doing it could result in complications.

Protecting your back

One of the best ways to protect your back muscles when carrying your baby is to use the correct lifting technique.

Use your legs rather than your back to lift your child and squat down by bending the knees rather than bending from the waist.

Never twist from the waist while holding your baby, always use your legs if turning to the side.

Injuries often occur when arms are outstretched to lift a child rather than bringing the child close to the centre core before lifting.

Back ache whilst breastfeeding

Many female back complaints originate from breastfeeding. To avoid injury or back strain, keep your back straight while breastfeeding and lift your baby to your breast rather than bending down.

Using an armchair will make it more comfortable and the use of pillows will help you to hold your baby in place without leaning down.

Baby seats

Young babies require a host of heavy objects from car seats and pushchairs through to bulging changing bags.

Many mothers carry car seats on their forearm like a handbag which is causing damage to the back, shoulder and arm ligaments.

Instead, grasp the handle with both hands, bend your elbows and carry the seat in front of you. Try to keep the distance between your stomach and the object you’re lifting to a minimum so that your back is under less strain.

Strengthen core muscles

Exercising to strengthen the core muscles is a good way of protecting your back and other joints in the long-term and will also help to reduce future damage.

If your injury is chronic and affecting your sleep or general quality of life, book an appointment with an osteopath. They will be able to devise a programme to relieve your symptoms and pain.

Don’t suffer from a bad back in silence, book an appointment with us here .

Now do we keep an injury warm or put a pack of frozen peas on it

Tue, 18 Nov 2014 14:45:47 GMT

A common question us osteopaths are often asked is when to use a hot treatment or when to use a cold treatment

Here in this short video, Andy Caughey explains when to use a hot treatment and when to use a cold treatment – it all depends on whether you have a joint or muscle injury.

What is the correct way of lifting a heavy object?

Mon, 04 Aug 2014 15:05:59 GMT

Don't put your back out - lift heavy objects the correct way...

Osteopaths commonly treat patients whose back ailments have stemmed from improper lifting whether as a one-off or over many years in their occupation. Learning the safest way of lifting or handling heavy objects is important to protecting a variety of muscles, not just the back, and could avoid injury and long-term pain.

The following safety tips will help you to limit the risk of injury when moving or picking up a heavy load and are recommended for all those involved in heavy-duty manual work on a frequent basis. The consequences of not following health and safety advice can be severe in terms of pain and quality of life so it’s always worth remembering that a few moments of consideration can reduce a lifetime of suffering.

Preparation is key to heavy lifting work. Before embarking on a project to clear a garage or move heavy furniture in advance of a house move, take time to consider where you will be moving the items to, whether it’s a job that realistically requires more than one person and whether the path is clear of potential obstacles. When a load is particularly tall or wide ensure to identify a suitable area to rest the item mid-journey and to re-arrange your grip.
The position of the load is important to limiting the damage on your spine. Keeping a lifted item close to your waist for as long as possible during the lift will protect back muscles. Ensure that the heaviest side of the load is closest to the body.
Posture is also highly important and you should position yourself so that your feet are shoulder-width apart, with one leg slightly forward to keep balance. Suitable footwear is important to maintaining stable footing and you may need to move your feet around while lifting the object to maintain a solid base.
Never stoop or fully squat at the start of the lift. The goal should be to keep your back straight at all times and bend your knees to move from ground to height level. Maintain a strong hold on the load by hugging it to keep it close to the body.
Never twist and lift an object at the same time. If you need to turnaround move your feet rather than your body. Keep shoulders and hips level as much as possible with your head up.
Health and safety specialists recommend tightening abdominal muscles during a lift to maintain a good position and to avoid placing excessive force on the spine. Legs are stronger than back muscles and can be a great aid when lifting heavy objects so use them.
When lowering a heavy load, keep the back straight and lower your position to the ground via your knees. If you have to place the object into a specific position, arrange it when it is placed on the ground by sliding it into position.

We’ve all been in situations where we’ve needed to get a job done quickly and have put ourselves at risk of injury. The consequences of improper lifting can be quite debilitating and have a devastating impact on quality of life and no job or project is worth rushing if this is the possible outcome. When lifting is placing pressure on your back and you can feel physically feel some degree of strain, take a rain check and seek help.

How do I reduce the risk of back injury or pain at my desk

Thu, 19 Jun 2014 15:40:24 GMT

Incorrect posture can cause spinal damage over time

Anyone who sits in one position for up to eight hours a day is putting themselves at risk of a back injury. Office workers do this every day so it ’ s not surprising that many are forced to take a trip to their GP complaining of back or neck discomfort.

Incorrect posture can cause spinal damage over time. An individual might not even realise they have a problem until several years down the line when the pain is severe and movement is restricted.

Back pain is the leading cause of long-term sickness in the UK and was responsible for no fewer than 15million lost work days in 2013, according to NHS figures .

Strained muscles and ligaments, incorrect posture and stress are responsible for the most common causes of back pain. Unfortunately, many of these can occur in the workplace.

Simply sitting at a desk can contribute to poor spinal health but by making small changes and adjustments, an individual can limit their risk of long-term damage. The following seven top tips advises office workers on how to safeguard their spine during the working day:

Remain active

A deskbound job is quite literally a job which requires significant periods of time sitting at a desk. However, lack of movement and remaining in the same position for a long period of time is detrimental to your spine so where possible fill your day with small stretching breaks. Whether it ’ s walking to the kitchen to do a tea round or checking your post tray occasionally, all movement helps to maintain a healthy blood flow and keep muscles and ligaments operational.

Use a telephone headset

If your job involves lots of telephone conversations, ask your office manager to provide a telephone headset. Many office workers have injured their cervical spine (neck) through craning their neck towards a phone or worse – using their cheek and shoulder to cradle a phone while keeping their hands free to type.

Place desktop accessories within reach

To avoid unnecessary movement and twisting while at your desk, ensure that your desk tools such as pens and staplers are within reach of your right or left hand.

When sitting, ensure your thighs are flat to the chair and parallel to the ground

Bend your elbows so that your forearms are also parallel to the ground. They should also be flat when typing.

Minimalise leaning forward

It is important to position your computer so that it’s only an arm’s length away from your eyes. In this position, you shouldn’t need to learn forward at all which can be damaging for your back. It’s also advisable to place your screen high enough so that you don ’ t have to look down or up at it.

Use an armrest

An armrest is an important piece of office furniture which takes some of the strain off your upper spine and shoulders and deters desk workers from slouching forward.

I hope this article has given you an insight into the little changes we can make to improve the health of our spine and reduce the risk of pain. There are of course many more tips available online which are worth considering if your job involves significant desk-based work.

Parkstone Osteopaths Hints, Tips and Advice

Walking More This May? How to Keep Your Back, Hips and Knees Comfortable

Walking is one of the simplest ways to keep moving

Why walking is so good for you

Why aches can appear when you start walking more

Common walking-related aches

Lower back discomfort

Hip tightness or pain

Knee pain

Foot and ankle niggles

Simple ways to walk more comfortably

Build up gradually

Wear shoes that suit the walk

Warm up gently

Pay attention to your stride

Mix up your routes

Do not ignore persistent pain

How osteopathy may help

Keep walking, but listen to your body

Need help with walking-related aches?

Running the London Marathon? Here’s How Kinesio Taping Could Keep You Moving

The right taping technique could make all the difference

�� What Is Kinesio Taping?

�� How It Helps Runners

✔ Reducing muscle fatigue

✔ Easing pain and discomfort

✔ Improving circulation

✔ Supporting recovery

⚠️ When Should You Use It?

�� Don’t Let a Niggle Stop You

�� Need a Hand?

Spring Gardening Is Back — Don’t Let Your Back Go With It

Done regularly and sensibly, gardening is fantastic for strength, mobility and mental wellbeing

Why Spring Gardening Causes So Many Back Flare-Ups ﻿

The Biggest Mistake I See

Three Simple Ways to Protect Your Back

1. Move Before You Dig

2. Break It Into Chunks

3. Respect Heavy Lifting

A Little Soreness Is Normal — Sharp Pain Isn’t

Gardening Should Help Your Body — Not Set It Back

Desk Life in Winter: Why Neck and Back Pain Creeps In This Time of Year

Cold weather naturally affects how we move

What Changes in Winter?

The Aches We Commonly See

Small Changes That Help More Than You’d Think

Movement Matters — Especially in Winter

When It’s Time to Get Checked

Looking After Yourself Through the Winter Months

A New Year… and Now a New Year

This New Year is it time to look after yourself too?

When You’re Used to Putting Yourself Last

Listening to What the Body Is Saying

A New Year Can Bring New Balance

Care Is Not a Luxury

And Now, a New Year for You

Feeling Sluggish Over Christmas? Here’s How to Stay Comfortable, Mobile & Energised This Festive Season

Over Christmas a little awareness and a few small changes go a long way

1. Keep Your Body Moving (Even in Small Ways)

2. Be Kind to Your Back When Sitting for Long Periods

3. Pace Yourself With Food & Drink

4. Prioritise Restful Sleep

5. Look After Your Body If You’re More Sedentary Than Usual

6. Don’t Ignore Persistent Discomfort

Final Thoughts

Can Osteopathy Help Relieve Headaches (and the Stress They Bring)?

For many people, headaches come with tension, fatigue, irritability or even anxiety

Understanding Headaches and Their Causes

How Osteopathy May Help with Headaches

1. Reducing Muscle Tension and Trigger Points

2. Improving Joint Mobility in the Neck and Upper Spine

3. Enhancing Postural Balance and Alignment

4. Facilitating Better Blood Flow, Lymphatics & Nerve Function

5. Encouraging Relaxation, Stress Relief & Self-Awareness

What to Expect in Treatment

Initial Assessment

Tailored Treatment Plan

Progressive Care & Monitoring

Self-Management & Prevention

What the Evidence Says

Why Spring Gardening Causes So Many Back Flare-Ups

Common Menopausal Symptoms Osteopathy May Help With: