The role of the Osteopath

During the course of an examination and treatment it is usual for the Osteopath to assess the way in which your body works, identify mechanical strengths and weaknesses which are particular to you. This will enable the Osteopath to identify particular movements and positions which will put your body at most risk of injury.

By discussing the nature of your job and lifestyle with you in detail, the Osteopath will be able to determine which situations in your life will be most likely to cause injury and devise ways of eliminating those risks as much as possible.

You may have noticed that the system used by your Osteopath is the same as the one suggested for self-help in this leaflet. The only different being that the level of his/her knowledge and experience will help you to explore the problems and solutions in greater depth. If necessary, treatment can be given and exercises prescribed.

Task Analysis, Risk Assessment and Risk Reduction are respected methods used in the field of health and safety and ergonomics to reduce injury and suffering in the workplace. The same techniques used informally can improve the quality of life for patients in all, aspects of their life.