My Services

What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a system of diagnosis and treatment which is suitable for a wide range of muscle, bone and joint problems. Osteopaths are regulated by statute under UK law. Typically, an osteopathic consultation will involve a detailed case history and examination relevant to your presenting complaint. In the UK, osteopaths use many of the standardised, non-invasive clinical examinations which would occur in medical and specialist neuromusculoskeletal settings. This is done to establish that you are safe to undergo osteopathic treatment and to ensure that your symptoms are not due to a condition which requires a medical opinion.

Osteopaths add to this examination by performing a gentle and comprehensive examination of how different areas of the body are influencing your complaint. This often feels like your body is being subtly moved through a range of movements to see where areas of tension or discomfort are impacting your overall complaint. Modern osteopathic care should also involve an understanding of how your pain is impacting your life and goals for recovery in a broader context.

What is Medical Acupuncture?

Medical acupuncture, also known as “Western medical acupuncture” or “dry needling” is the use of sterile, single-use acupuncture needles to reduce pain. This is different from traditional Eastern approaches to acupuncture. Current understandings around how this treatment works are rooted in the neurophysiological science of how the brain interprets pain. The use of acupuncture in this way may also reduce local tension in muscles and increase circulation to the affected area which speeds up the healing process.

The process involves pre-sterilisation of the skin before very fine needles are inserted using a special guide tube. This, as well as the acupuncturist’s skill at needle insertion ensures that the process is as painless as possible. Some patients feel nothing at all during the needle insertion, however the most common sensation reported seems to be a form of “dull heaviness” felt locally at the area of treatment. Acupuncture often works well alongside other forms of physical therapy, such as osteopathy and exercise prescription.

The Results

“I suffered for six months with daily pain and pins and needles in both hands. After finding Ross and having two treatments, I was back to normal.”

- David