Osteopathy is a safe and effective medical discipline that detects and treats damaged parts of the body such as muscles, nerves, joints, tendons and ligaments. The philosophy and practice of medical osteopathy was developed by Dr Andrew Taylor Still in the USA during the 1880s.

Osteopathy differs from other forms of physical therapy. It is holistic - it treats the whole body, not just the affected area. It also considers the patient as an individual, treating the problem in the context of their lives.

The aim of the osteopath is to promote health, optimum movement and structural integrity. Through modern clinical examination and osteopathic manual assessment, osteopaths use their highly attuned palpatory skills (sensitive touch) to diagnose injury and strain within the body. They then use a range of techniques to heal and restore balance to the body, considering the diet, lifestyle and environment of the patient throughout treatment.