Practised around the world osteopathy is one of the most respected and widely used alternative therapies. It was developed by Dr A T Still who was an army Doctor in the American civil war. He developed the method in 1872. Osteopathy proved a major help during the flu epidemic of 1919. In the U.S. Osteopaths gained official recognition in 1972 and in the U.K. in 1993.
Osteopaths aim to improve the mobility of the tissues and joints using massage and manipulation.
An Osteopath looks for the reasons behind the problem. Two studies in the U.S. and the U.K. show that osteopathic manipulation may improve recovery time for lower back pain patients. When you first consult a practitioner you will be asked how your symptoms began and what activities make them worse. You will also be asked about your medical history, past injuries, lifestyle and work. You may be asked to stand, sit and lie in order to assess the way you hold yourself.