Frequently Asked Questions
What conditions are treated by Osteopathy?
One of the main areas of focus for osteopaths is the musculoskeletal system, which includes the muscles, joints, and bones. Osteopathy can be effective in helping with a range of conditions that affect this system.
- Back Pain
- Neck pain
- Shoulder pain
- Knee pain
- Arthritis
- Different types of tendonitis
- Sprains and strains of ligaments and muscle
- Sciatica
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Achilles Tendonitis
- Tension-type headaches
- Tennis Elbow
- Golfer’s Elbow
And many other conditions not listed above, feel free to ask us if you are unsure and we will be happy to answer all of your questions.
What should I wear during my appointment?
Loose-fitting shorts, Leggings and Standard Bras are the best.
However if for any reason these options are not making you feel comfortable or you are not able to wear them feel free to wear whatever clothes make you happy, safe and comfortable.
What's the difference between Osteopathy and Physiotherapy?
Osteopathy and physiotherapy are two healthcare practices that are often used to treat musculoskeletal conditions and promote overall wellness. While these two practices share some similarities, they have distinct differences in their approach to treatment, techniques used, and educational and training requirements. As a result, it’s important to understand the differences between osteopathy and physiotherapy to determine which practice is right for your needs.
The core principle of osteopathy is that the body has the ability to heal itself and that the job of the osteopath is to facilitate this healing process. Osteopaths believe that the musculoskeletal system plays a crucial role in overall health and wellness and use a holistic approach to diagnosis and treatment.
Osteopaths use a variety of diagnostic tools and techniques, including physical exams, medical history, and imaging studies, to identify the root cause of a patient’s pain or discomfort. Once a diagnosis is made, they may use a range of manipulative techniques to help restore normal function in the affected area.
Some of the most common techniques include soft tissue manipulation, joint mobilization, muscle energy techniques, myofascial release and craniosacral therapy. Osteopaths may also provide lifestyle advice, exercise programs, and nutritional counselling to help support the body’s natural healing process. Osteopaths may also use a range of other modalities, including acupuncture, and massage, to help manage pain and promote healing.
The philosophy of physiotherapy is focused on improving movement, function and quality of life. Physiotherapists believe that by using a combination of manual therapy, exercise, and other techniques, they can help patients manage pain, prevent further injury, and regain independence.
Physiotherapists use a range of techniques to assess and treat a variety of musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and neurological conditions. Treatment may include exercises, manual therapy, electrotherapy, ultrasound and education on injury prevention to manage pain and inflammation.
While both osteopathy and physiotherapy can help patients recover from injury and improve their overall physical health, the outcomes of treatment may differ slightly. Osteopaths focus on treating the whole body and addressing underlying issues that may contribute to pain and dysfunction. Physiotherapists focus more specifically on movement, function, and rehabilitation. The goals of treatment may vary depending on the patient’s needs and condition.
What's the difference between Osteopathy and Chiropractic?
The core principle of osteopathy is that the body has the ability to heal itself and that the job of the osteopath is to facilitate this healing process. Osteopaths believe that the musculoskeletal system plays a crucial role in overall health and wellness and use a holistic approach to diagnosis and treatment. Chiropractic, on the other hand, is based on the principle that the nervous system controls all other bodily functions, and that misalignments in the spine can interfere with this system and cause a wide range of health problems.
Osteopaths use a variety of diagnostic tools and techniques, including physical exams, medical history, and imaging studies, to identify the root cause of a patient’s pain or discomfort. Once a diagnosis is made, they may use a range of manipulative techniques to help restore normal function in the affected area. Chiropractors also use physical exams and imaging studies to diagnose musculoskeletal disorders, but their treatment approach is more focused on correcting spinal misalignments using manual adjustments.
Osteopaths use a wide range of manipulative techniques to help improve the body’s natural healing process. Some of the most common techniques include soft tissue manipulation, joint mobilization, muscle energy techniques, myofascial release and craniosacral therapy. Osteopaths may also provide lifestyle advice, exercise programs, and nutritional counselling to help support the body’s natural healing process. Osteopaths may also use a range of other modalities, including acupuncture, and massage, to help manage pain and promote healing.
Chiropractors use manual adjustments to correct misalignments in the spine and other joints in the body. These adjustments are typically performed using the hands or a small instrument and are designed to improve joint mobility and reduce pain and inflammation. Chiropractors may also use a range of other techniques, including massage, traction, and electrical stimulation, to help promote healing and reduce pain.
This is a short and general overview of both professions, bear in mind that with this answer we just wanted to give an idea of what the 2 professions involve. This answer is not covering all the aspects of osteopathy and chiropractic and is not exhaustive.
What's the difference between Osteopathy and Massage Therapy?
Osteopathy is a holistic approach to treating the whole body, while massage therapy focuses mainly on relaxation and reducing muscle tension. Osteopathy also involves more structural and functional assessments of the body and may use techniques such as osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) to correct any imbalances or restrictions found.
Both osteopathy and massage therapy involves hands-on techniques that require practitioners to use their hands to manipulate the body’s tissues. However, the two practices differ in their underlying philosophies, educational requirements, and techniques.
Osteopathy is a holistic approach that considers the whole person, including their physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Osteopathic practitioners believe that the body is a self-regulating mechanism and that by removing restrictions and imbalances, they can restore the body’s natural ability to heal itself.
Massage therapy is more focused on relaxation and pain relief. While massage therapists may use a range of techniques to promote healing, their primary focus is on relaxing the body’s muscles and reducing pain.
What's the difference between Deep tissue and Sports Massage?
Deep tissue massage is a type of massage that targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. This type of massage is ideal for those who experience chronic pain, are recovering from an injury, or have limited mobility. Deep tissue massage is also great for athletes who engage in high-intensity workouts and need to release muscle tension.
Deep tissue massage uses slow strokes and deep pressure to break up scar tissue and adhesions that cause pain, inflammation, and limited mobility. The massage therapist may use their elbows, forearms, and even their feet to apply pressure to the targeted areas.
Sports massage is a type of massage that is designed specifically for athletes. It is ideal for athletes who engage in high-intensity workouts and need to prevent or recover from injuries. Sports massage can be used before or after a workout to help prevent or alleviate muscle soreness.
Sports massage uses a combination of deep tissue massage, stretching, and compression techniques to improve flexibility, reduce muscle tension, and improve circulation. The massage therapist may use their hands, and elbows to apply pressure to the targeted areas.
What's the difference between Standard Massage and Pregnancy Massage?
Standard massage is the typical form of massage therapy that most people are familiar with. It can alleviate pain, reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and promote relaxation.
Pregnancy massage is a specialized form of massage therapy designed to support the changing needs of a pregnant woman’s body. It can help alleviate pregnancy-related aches and pains, reduce swelling, and promote relaxation.
Standard massage techniques often involve deeper pressure and more vigorous movements. Pregnancy massage techniques are gentler and apply lighter pressure. The classic massage generally can be performed in all different positions (on your front, back, and side) whilst pregnancy massage is commonly performed on the side.
To summarize, classic deep-tissue massage involves more vigorous techniques and stronger pressure than pregnancy, as positioning can be different as well.
What's the difference between Osteopathy and Pediatric Osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a manual therapy that focuses on the treatment of musculoskeletal problems, as well as other bodily dysfunctions. It is a holistic approach that aims to identify and treat the root cause of the problem, rather than just addressing the symptoms. Osteopaths use a variety of techniques, such as soft tissue manipulation, joint mobilization, and spinal manipulation, to restore the body’s natural balance.
Pediatric osteopathy, on the other hand, is a specialization within osteopathy that focuses on the treatment of infants and children. It uses similar techniques to osteopathy but adapted to the unique needs of children.
Let’s have a look more in detail which are the techniques used by both styles.
Osteopathic treatment for adults usually does a combination of spinal manipulation, soft tissue techniques, stretches, muscle energy techniques, joint mobilizations, strain and counter-strain techniques and fascial release.
Osteopathic treatment for children is more gentle and uses a combination of fascial release, really light and gentle soft tissue techniques and cranial sacral therapy.
What's the difference between Cranial, Visceral and Structural Osteopathy?
When it comes to osteopathy, there are three main styles of treatment: cranial, visceral, and structural. Each type focuses on different parts of the body and uses different techniques and approaches to addressing underlying issues.
Cranial osteopathy focuses on the bones of the head, the spine, and the sacrum. It uses gentle techniques to manipulate the cranial bones and to restore the natural movement and balance of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) which is crucial for optimal health and brain function. The osteopath will palpitate each vertebral level from the coccyx to the cranium in order to release CSF into the body.
Visceral osteopathy focuses on the organs and internal systems of the body. It aims to restore normal function and movement to organs that may have become restricted for several reasons (metabolic diseases, digestive issues and many others).
Structural osteopathy focuses on the musculoskeletal system and aims to restore normal function and movement to the body’s structure. It uses a range of techniques such as stretching, massage, joint manipulation and many others.
Cranial osteopathy uses very gentle touch and pressure to address tension and restrictions in the body. Visceral osteopathy uses gentle massage techniques to improve organ function and mobility. Structural osteopathy uses a wider range of techniques and may involve more forceful manipulation to adjust joints and improve the range of motion.
Why do babies and toddlers need treatment?
The primary of osteopathy is to restore the body’s balance addressing all the postural and musculoskeletal issues. Pediatric Osteopathy is a suitable treatment for newborns, toddlers and children. With gentle techniques, Osteopathy is able to help soothe and relax your baby.
Babies usually can be seen by an osteopath for different reasons such as general aches and pain, constipation, flat head syndrome, latching and feeding problems and postnatal checkups.
Is Pediatric Osteopathy safe for the baby?
The concise response is a resounding yes – pediatric techniques are incredibly gentle and pose no harm to your child. In the rare instance that there are any contraindications to treatment, our osteopath will promptly inform you. We prioritize safety above all else and will not proceed with any treatment that may potentially be harmful.
How many appointments do babies need?
Babies are particularly receptive to osteopathic treatment, making it a highly effective technique for them. At our clinic, we strive to see improvements from the very first session, but we typically recommend a minimum of three sessions to fully evaluate and understand the effects of the treatment.
In more complex cases, additional sessions may be necessary, and we will always keep you informed of your progress and any adjustments to your treatment plan. While it may seem counterintuitive, our ultimate goal is to empower our patients, both young and old, to become more independent and less reliant on ongoing treatment.
After all, we believe that everyone should be able to stand on their own two feet – especially the little ones!👶
What position will I be during a Pregnancy Massage ?
During the first 13 weeks of pregnancy, lying on your stomach may not necessarily cause any discomfort. However, we highly recommend opting for the side-lying position to avoid any additional stress or pressure on your body. When lying on your stomach, structures such as lumbar vertebrae, lumbar ligaments, and muscles are not in an ideal biomechanical position, which can further increase pressure on your back and lead to back pain.
To ensure a comfortable and safe pregnancy massage experience, we always suggest the side-lying position. However, we understand that every individual has their own preferences and comfort levels. Therefore, we will always ask you what position you feel most comfortable in before beginning any treatment. Our goal is to provide you with an enjoyable massage experience that caters to your unique needs and preferences.
How long is the osteopathic treatment?
The osteopathic session lasts up to 45 minutes. This is the time allocated both for the initial consultation and the follow-up. During the consultation allow up to 15 minutes of medical questioning. The follow-up is usually primarily focused on treatment.
How long is the massage treatment?
We offer 30, 45 and 60 minutes massages.
Please allocate between 3-5 minutes for the short initial consultation (for complex cases can be slightly more).
If you are running late and we do not have any back-to-back appointments we will try our best to give you the full-time, otherwise, your session will be shorter than expected.
How many sessions will I need?
This is what we consider a million-dollar question. Providing an exact answer is challenging as it depends on your condition. However, we believe that for most conditions, you should experience some improvement, even if it’s minimal, after three sessions. If there is no change in your condition after three sessions, we will discuss with you the next course of action.
It’s important to note that every individual’s response to treatment varies, and there are several factors that can affect the outcome.
At our clinic, we believe in a holistic approach to healthcare, which means we treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. We take the time to listen to your concerns and work with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses your personal needs.
In summary, while there is no definitive answer to the million-dollar question, we are confident that our personalized treatment plans and experienced staff will help you achieve the best possible outcome.
What should l expect from an Osteopathy session?
Your first appointment consists of the following phases:
- Case History Taking
- Clinical Examination
- Treatment
- Exercises Prescription (if applicable)
Consecutive appointments will focus on Treatment and Examination to evaluate your progress
What should l expect from a massage session?
Your massage session consists of the following
- 3-5 minutes consultation to exclude any contraindications to the treatment (for complex cases can be slightly more)
- Massage treatment
We normally use some massage oil for our session but if you are more comfortable having a dry massage just let us know and we will be happy to oblige.
Massage or Osteopathy which should I choose?
Osteopathy is a comprehensive manual therapy treatment that involves diagnosis, treatment, and overall health management. It is not uncommon for osteopaths to provide lifestyle advice to their patients. Osteopathic treatment is not limited to hands-on techniques; it may also involve changing daily habits, performing exercises, and adjusting one’s diet.
Osteopathy aims to identify the root cause of a patient’s problem by examining all the factors that contribute to it. As a result, a course of treatment is often necessary, but this will always be discussed with the therapist.
In contrast, massage generally does not involve an in-depth assessment and is primarily hands-on. It does not include a diagnostic component.
If you are experiencing minor pain or delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), massage can be a good option to aid healing and prevent further injury. However, patients with persistent pain usually require more in-depth treatment, and for most musculoskeletal issues, osteopathy can help.
We understand that every patient is unique, and we are flexible in our approach. We believe that a combination of both osteopathy and massage can often lead to the best outcome for our patients.
Is osteopathy painful?
Osteopathy is generally a safe and painless therapy. However, it is possible to experience some tightness, muscle soreness, or tenderness during the treatment. In some cases, you may even feel an exacerbation of your pain after the session. This is simply your body’s response to the treatment, and it should not last for more than a few days.
It is important to note that osteopathy is a holistic approach to healthcare that focuses on treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. By using gentle manual techniques, an osteopath can help to restore balance and promote healing throughout the body.
Is massage painful?
Massage Therapy is generally a safe and painless therapy. However, it is possible to experience some tightness, muscle soreness, or tenderness during the treatment. In some cases, you may even feel an exacerbation of your pain after the session. This is simply your body’s response to the treatment, and it should not last for more than a few days.
Massage therapy is an approach directed to the muscle tissues to reduce tension, improve flexibility and also speed up the recovery process after a sports competition or simply relax your body after a long period of working (especially desk-related jobs which are back killers).
What happens when an osteopath crack your back?
One of the many osteopathic techniques available is the High-Velocity Technique (HVT), which involves manipulating a specific joint with quick, rapid movements to improve its functionality and reduce associated pain. While this technique may produce a noise similar to a crack or pop, it is important to note that the sound itself is not necessary for the technique to be effective.
The pop sound is actually caused by a bubble that forms and then pops within the synovial fluid, a lubricating fluid found within our joints. During the manipulation, the space between joint surfaces increases, causing gases within the synovial fluid to form a bubble. This bubble then bursts, creating a popping sound.
While the HVT technique may seem intimidating, it is a safe and effective way to improve joint function and reduce pain. Any possible contraindications and effects of the technique will be promptly discussed with you.
Can Osteopaths release a trapped nerve?
Osteopaths possess the expertise to address a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including the dreaded trapped nerve. This condition, also known as a pinched nerve, arises when excessive pressure is exerted on a nerve in the neck, back, shoulders, or other areas by surrounding tissues such as tendons, muscles, ligaments, cartilage, or bones.
The resulting pressure can lead to a range of unpleasant symptoms, including numbness, tingling, weakness, and pain. Fortunately, an osteopath can provide effective relief by freeing the nerve pathway and restoring the proper biomechanics of the affected area. Osteopaths can help patients overcome the discomfort and limitations caused by trapped nerves.
How many years last the osteopathic degree?
Most osteopaths receive a bachelor’s degree in osteopathy and some go on study for a master’s degree. A doctor of osteopathy is required to obtain at least 1000 hours of clinical experience before practising in the UK and must be registered with the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC).
When should avoid getting osteopathy?
- If you’re feeling ill or unwell
- If you’re suffering from an acute infection
- Acute trauma with the suspect of a fracture
- You are in need of medical or surgical emergency treatment
- Sudden thoracic pain not related to the musculoskeletal system
- Acute abdominal pain
- Sudden and strong vomiting or diarrhoea
- Acute strong headache with a subtle onset
- Acute neck stiffness associated with fever
- Strong unexplained vertigo
- Acute and unexpected gynaecological disorders
Always inform your therapist of any doubts or concerns that you may have about the above or other not listed conditions.
When should avoid getting a massage?
- If you’re feeling ill or unwell
- If you’re suffering from an acute infection
- Acute trauma with the suspect of a fracture
- You are in need of medical or surgical emergency treatment
- Sudden thoracic pain not related to the musculoskeletal system
- Acute abdominal pain
- Sudden and strong vomiting or diarrhoea
- Acute strong headache with a subtle onset
- Acute neck stiffness associated with fever
- Strong unexplained vertigo
- Acute and unexpected gynaecological disorders
Always inform your therapist of any doubts or concerns that you may have about the above or other not listed conditions.
How often should I get a massage or an osteopathic treatment?
At MiTo Healthcare Clinic, we understand that determining the frequency of appointments can be a complex matter that varies depending on the condition being treated. However, we prioritize patient independence and strive to extend the time between appointments as soon as possible.
Typically, we recommend weekly appointments for the first few treatments; sometimes, twice a week may be necessary. After that, we work on spacing out appointments every 2-3 weeks, and eventually, after a month.
It’s important to note that this is not a rigid schedule, and your needs may require fewer or more sessions than anticipated. We always take the time to discuss treatment planning and options with you to ensure the best possible outcome.
Should I have a massage or an osteopathic appointment even if I am not in pain?
Pain is a crucial signal in your nervous system that alerts your brain of actual or potential tissue damage. As skilled osteopaths and massage therapists, we understand the importance of regular postural check-ups to prevent any body imbalances that may trigger pain reactions.
Our ultimate objective is to help you resume your favourite activities while ensuring that you maintain optimal health. Therefore, we recommend regular postural check-ups and treatments, even if you are not experiencing any pain, to alleviate any tension in your joints, muscles, and ligaments.
By prioritizing your physical well-being, you can prevent any potential pain and discomfort from arising.
Which are the qualifications in massage therapy?
According to nationalcareers.service.gov.uk, massage therapists are skilled professionals who manipulate muscles and soft tissues to alleviate pain, treat sports injuries, and provide relief to individuals with health issues.
In the United Kingdom, there are numerous courses available in massage therapy, each with its own specialization, including sports massage, cupping therapy, Thai massage, Shiatsu, and Stone massage, to name a few.
Massage therapy qualifications are available at various levels, with a level 3 diploma in body massage therapy (ITEC) being the typical starting point. From there, you can progress to a level 5 Professional Diploma (BTEC). The duration of these courses varies from three months to several years, depending on the level of qualification you are seeking.
It is important to note that the title of a massage therapist is not protected or fully regulated. However, if you meet certain requirements, you can join a professional body to seek further recognition. At MiTo Healthcare Clinic, we are registered with Complementary Health Professionals, ensuring that our clients receive the highest quality care from qualified professionals.
Should I have a massage or an osteopathic session if I am feeling unwell?
If you feel sick or unwell we recommend you let us know and not attend your appointment. If you’re ill you may feel worse after an osteopathic or a massage session and we do not want that to happen. We will be more than happy to see you after your recovery.
Communication with your therapist is important during osteopathic and massage session
Effective communication with your therapist during treatment may seem like a straightforward and obvious task, but it should not be taken for granted. It is crucial to inform your therapist of any discomfort you may experience during a particular osteopathic technique or massage pressure to ensure that you receive the best possible treatment.
Never assume anything if you are uncertain. Instead, please inform us, and we will be delighted to adjust the treatment plan or explain things to you based on the situation at hand. Our goal is to provide you with the most effective and comfortable treatment possible, and we can only achieve this through open and honest communication.
