Osteopathy – Treating the Whole Person

Osteopathy is a manual medicine that focuses on total body health by treating the neuromuscular system. It is a safe, gentle and effective treatment approach using hands-on techniques to diagnose and treat a wide range of health problems, aiming to relieve pain, discomfort and immobility. The osteopathic philosophy is to treat the person as a whole, not just the specific symptoms. By improving the function of the whole body, mind and spirit osteopathy helps to stimulate the body’s own self-healing / self-regulating processes, aiding a return to health.

Its emphasis is on the interrelationship of the body’s structure – such as muscles, bones, joints, nerves etc – and its function – such as breathing, circulation, digestion, metabolism etc.

Osteopathy and the natural tendency for a state of a state of health

Osteopathy works with the body’s natural tendency for a state of health and homeostasis. Working with movement of tissues allows your body to continue repairing and healing itself. Suggested stretching and exercise may be prescribed to aid and enhance the healing process according to your particular problem and environment.

Osteopathy History

In 1874 when Dr Andrew Taylor Still proposed his Osteopathic philosophy in the US, medicine at that time was purging, leeching, bloodletting, toxic chemicals and electromagnetic shock. He felt something better was needed!

Osteopathy in New Zealand

Osteopathy has been practiced in New Zealand since the 1930’s. There are currently around 550 registered practicing Osteopaths in New Zealand. Osteopaths have been regulated under the Health Practitioners Competency Act since 2004.