Osteopathic techniques fall into three broad categories. Soft tissue techniques are a specialty of osteopaths, who have developed many sophisticated ways to affect the mechanical and neural dysfunctions of the body's muscular and connective tissues. Articulatory or manipulative techniques are employed to improve mobility of joints and neural distortion and restore normal fluid dynamics. Specific joint techniques have been developed which range from manipulative techniques to subtle methods which serve to release joint dysfunction and restore mobility and function to a region. Osteopaths provide advice on diet, exercise, posture, stress management and many other aspects of daily life that contribute to the general health and well being of their clients.
Osteopaths work in a range of health care settings in Australia and overseas.
Overwhelmingly, osteopaths work in the private practice setting as independent practitioners who hold primary contact status. As health care practitioners they liaise with other health care providers such as doctors, nurses and allied health professionals and many osteopaths now work in multidisciplinary clinics. Some Areas Where Osteopaths Work Back Pain Nine out of ten people, regardless of age or gender, suffer back pain at some stage in their lifetime that incapacitates them for one week or more. Causes for low back pain can include scoliosis, previous back injury, poor posture and pregnancy. Warning signs can be localised pain that is dull and creeping to pain that is sudden, sharp and stabbing.