Although many of us may have had to visit an osteopath at some point or may know of a friend or family member who has been treated by an osteopath, how many of us actually know what training the osteopath has had to undertake in order to qualify?
To be able to qualify as an osteopath Kidderminster, the osteopath must have completed either a BSc (Hons) in Osteopathy or indeed a Masters in Osteopathy. The General Osteopathic Council (GOC) have a list of recognised courses which a candidate must have completed in order to be eligible to apply for registration. Only those cranial osteopaths who have registered with the GOC will be eligible to practise within the United Kingdom. Once registered, all osteopaths must complete 30 hours of continuous professional development each year in order to keep their skills and knowledge up to date.
So, what do cranial osteopaths actually do? Cranial osteopaths have been trained to feel a very subtle and rhythmical pulsation which is present in all body tissues. It is known as either Involuntary Motion or the Cranial Rhythm. By feeling the cranial rhythm, osteopaths are able to detect any tension or misalignments within the body. They can then use very gentle and subtle techniques to relieve any unwanted pressure within the body and return the musculoskeletal system to its natural position.
Another type of osteopathy which is commonly used is visceral osteopathy. This form of osteopathy helps to relieve imbalances in the interconnections between the motions of the internal organs and structures of the body. It tends to focus on the internal organs within the body and will pinpoint any problem areas with relation to the respiratory system and the digestive tract. However, it can also help with other issues such as whiplash, seatbelt injuries, tension and back, neck, shoulder and hip pain.
Osteopathy can be a fantastic form of treatment for a wide array of common aches and pains. When choosing a suitable osteopath in your local area, make sure they are registered with the General Osteopathic Council by checking on the GOC website.
