Osteopathy
Osteopathy is an established, recognised system of diagnosis and treatment that lays its main emphasis on the structural and functional integrity of the body.
Osteopathy recognises the need for medical investigation into symptoms when indicated and uses many of the diagnostic procedures used in conventional medical assessment and diagnosis. Its main strength, however, lies in the unique way in which the patient is assessed from a mechanical, functional and postural standpoint and the manual methods of treatment applied that suit the needs of the individual patient rather than a specific treatment for a specific problem.
Osteopathic practice is a healthcare approach that provides a package of care that can include one or more of the following: manual therapy, health information, self-management advice and support, and/or exercise therapy, as determined by the individual needs of the patient.
Cranial Osteopathy is a gentle therapy which is particularly useful for the treatment of children, as well as having a role to play in the treatment of adults.
If you are unsure whether Osteopathic treatment would be beneficial for you or your baby/child please telephone the practice. We are very happy to discuss whether a consultation would be appropriate.
How we can help
Osteopathy works well for all types of musculoskeletal problems:
Arthritic problems
Joint pains including hip and knee pain from osteoarthritis as an adjunct to core osteoarthritis treatments and exercise
General, acute & chronic backache
Sciatica / lumbago
Frozen shoulder / shoulder and elbow pain
Minor sports injuries and tensions
Back pain caused by pregnancy
Generalised aches and pains
Uncomplicated mechanical neck pain
Circulatory problems
Cramp
Muscle spasms
Rheumatic pain.
Osteopathy can also be helpful for other problems not so obviously associated with it:-
Circulatory problems
Neuralgia
Fibromyalgia
Digestion problems
Tension
Headache arising from the neck (cervicogenic) / migraine prevention
Inability to relax.
Osteopathy for babies and children
After birth some babies can benefit from osteopathic treatment, it is both gentle and safe and can help soothe and relax your baby.
Cranial techniques are often used which are safe, gentle and non-manipulative. Osteopathic techniques are suitable for children at all stages of development, please call the clinic if you are unsure whether your baby/child could be helped , or to speak to one of our Osteopaths.
Qualifications
Osteopathy is now an accepted part of physical medicine. In 1993 The Osteopath Act was passed by Parliament and the General Osteopathic Council was formed. This is a statutory self-regulating body and only appropriately qualified practitioners can now call themselves Osteopaths.
What to expect from your first consultation
The first consultation will take between 45 minutes and an hour. The Osteopath will want to know what type of problem you are experiencing and a thorough history will be taken. This will include your general health, previous illnesses, your lifestyle and family medical history. They will then want to conduct a physical examination and for this it may be necessary to undress down to your underwear. You will normally be taken through a range of movements and a detailed examination of joint function and individual tissues will be performed. More specific clinical tests may also be done. After the examination the Osteopath will explain the findings and, if appropriate, a suitable course of treatment will be prescribed.
Sometimes additional investigations or tests may be required, e.g. urine or blood tests or X-rays. An appropriate referral can be made for this. Orchard Clinic can also refer patients for private MRI scans should they be required. For further information and up to date costs please contact the clinic.
You are welcome to bring a someone with you for all or part of your consultation. Children under the age of 16 must always be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Pierre Antoye
Pierre is the proud owner of the The Orchard Clinic in Thrapston. He treats many conditions from all ages, activities and professions staying true to the osteopathic motto: “To keep you younger for longer”. His love for treating adults, babies and animals is now pretty well known.
Lizzie Hayes
Lizzie, one of the smiliest members of Orchard Clinic, she specialises in treating kids and pregnant/post-natal women, alongside patient’s with pelvic pain (including Mummy MOT).
Anand Aggarwal
An Osteopathy graduate of Oxford Brookes University in 2012, Anand practices Osteopathy and Medical Acupuncture to help patients of all ages.
Greg Foster
Greg qualified in 2021, having owned a gym and studied Osteopathy part-time for 5 years! With a personal training background, he specialises in sports related injuries.
Ian Lewis
Ian Lewis qualified in 2016 from College of Osteopaths, Middlesex University. He has a specialist interest in treating people with jaw pain, headaches and chronic pain. In which he has completed postgraduate courses at the University College of Osteopathy in London.