About My Village Osteopath

Osteopath performing acupuncture on a male patient

We believe

To understand your symptoms we must understand our patient.
The body has an incredible capacity to heal if its given the chance.
If you move well you recover well.
How we think and feel effects how we move.

Osteopath performing a standing exam of a patient's back in a calm green room with a fireplace

What to expect at your first appointment

This session is primarily to understand who we are dealing with as well as the symptoms. This means that with a discussion around your symptoms there is also a detailed medical history as well as questions around lifestyle, which sometimes includes work/life balance, leisure activities, diet and social interactions.

Once the consultation is complete there is an examination to explore where in your body the pain is coming from. To do this you will be asked to move in ways that may or may not be a little sore. The Osteopath will be using there hands to guide the body in different directions as well as pushing on spots that might be a bit sore. In some circumstances you may be asked to have your blood pressure taken, nerves tested or lungs listened too.

Once the exam has concluded you will have your symptoms explained with a diagnosis as well as being given a plan to solve the problem. In some cases your symptoms may require further investigations in which case this will be discussed and you may be referred to a more appropriate practitioner.

If there is time for treatment - there are a variety of options ranging from massage to hypnotherapy. Not one of them is best but there will be one that is best for you so please have a look in our treatment styles section for more details.

Please wear loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment.

Often patients are asked to remove some items of clothing. This helps the practitioner make an informed decision about your diagnosis but modesty takes priority so there will never be pressure if the patient doesn't want to.

Please wear shorts and/or a sports bra if you are comfortable removing clothing.

Treatment Styles

Conditions We Treat

Lower Back Pain with or without Sciatica

Lower back pain is a very common and a highly treatable area. Whether symptoms stay in the back or travel down the limb, they should be investigated.

At My Village Osteopath we are highly trained to differentiate between these conditions and can treat most of them using the techniques described in our "treatments style" section (located at the top of the page). Any condition that we can't treat we refer so that you get the right care.

Neck Pain

Neck Pain can occur with or without trauma for a variety of reasons. In most cases neck pain can be resolved successfully using the techniques described in our "treatments style" section (located at the top of the page) however all patients are screened and examined thoroughly so that if you can't be treated by us we can be refer you to someone who can.

Headaches

Many headaches are caused by tension in the neck and shoulders. These "cervicogenic" headaches can be successfully treated with many of the techniques used in our "treatments style" section (located at the top of the page). We can also provide relief from sinus headaches, tension type headache and primary migraine.

There are headaches that aren't appropriate for us to treat here, but not to worry, we are well trained to spot which ones need specialist care during the examination part of the session. Whoever needs this will be guided to the appropriate practitioner using our referral process.

Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain can occur with or without trauma to the area. In order to treat shoulder pain appropriately, it's important to understand the root cause. At My Village Osteopath we perform a thorough exam of your shoulder as well as the joints associated with the shoulder complex to get to the bottom of this.

In some cases the issue isn't appropriate for treatment. In these cases we discuss your options and often refer on for more appropriate treatment.

Knee Pain

Knee pain can just as easily be caused by an issue in the lower back as well as in the knee itself. It's important to make sure you know that you can perform the right actions at home to support full recovery. At My Village Osteopath we perform a thorough exam from the lower back to your ankle to make sure that we rule out referred pain as well as getting an understanding of how the joints above and below the knee are affecting its structures.

In some cases the issue isn't appropriate for treatment. In these cases we discuss your options and often refer on for more appropriate treatment.

Ankle Pain

Ankle pain is often affected by footwear or trauma as well as infection, circulation and nerve supply. It's important to distinguish all of these from each other before deciding any treatment for yourself. If you're concerned about your ankle pain then book a consultation today.

Our practitioners are well trained to test your ankle so you can get the right diagnosis. If the issue is mechanical (joint or muscle related) or a sensitivity then we can treat you with confidence. If it's not mechanical you will be given options on who to see next.

Chronic and Recurring Pain

Chronic and recurring pain symptoms can occur anywhere in the body. If you are suffering from pain that has come on from minor movements, after exercise or manual labour, during stressful periods or simply waking up then this is the place for you. It could come on in the form of a trapped nerve in the neck, episode of sciatica, primary headache, irritable bowl syndrome, aching hips, painful knees or sore feet. So if you're tired of living through pain, know that it's not your age, it's not normal and it can stop.

Why would I need an Osteopath?

Please reach us at enquiries@myvillageosteopath.co.uk if you cannot find an answer to your question.

Can an osteopath help with back pain?

Yes. Osteopaths are trained to assess and treat the underlying causes of lower back pain, muscle tension, joint stiffness, and sciatica-related symptoms. Using hands-on techniques such as joint mobilisation, soft tissue massage, spinal manipulation, and personalised movement advice, we help reduce pain, restore mobility, and prevent flare-ups. Many patients notice improvement within just a few sessions.

What is the best treatment for lower back pain?

The best treatment depends on the cause, but most cases respond well to a combination of hands-on therapy, gentle joint mobilisation, soft tissue work, and tailored self-care exercises. At My Village Osteopath, we also offer medical acupuncture, which can be highly effective for muscle spasm and nerve irritation. To prevent future flare-ups we explore life-style changes, relaxation techniques and a hypnotic technique known as pain reprocessing therapy. A full assessment allows us to choose the right techniques for your specific symptoms.

How can I relieve neck pain quickly?

Applying gentle heat, avoiding sudden twisting movements, and practising slow, controlled stretches can provide immediate relief. If symptoms persist, an osteopath can help by releasing tight muscles, improving joint mobility, and addressing any postural habits contributing to your discomfort. Treatment is gentle and aims to reduce both pain and tension while restoring normal movement.

What are red flags for neck pain?

Though most neck pain is not serious, you should seek urgent medical attention if it is accompanied by:

- Severe, unexplained headache

- Fever or signs of infection

- Numbness or weakness in the arms or legs

- Difficulty walking or balancing

- Trauma such as a fall or accident

If you’re unsure whether your symptoms are safe to treat, we will advise you during your initial consultation.

Can an osteopath help with joint pain?

Absolutely. Osteopathy can help reduce pain and stiffness in joints such as the shoulders, hips, knees, and hands. Treatment improves mobility, reduces inflammation, and supports healthier movement patterns. Many patients seek osteopathic care for arthritis, postural strain, and overuse injuries.

What happens when an osteopath “cracks” your neck or back?

The cracking sound, known as cavitation, is simply gas releasing from the joint as pressure changes. It is not bones grinding or “putting things back in place.” When performed by a trained professional, spinal manipulation is a safe, controlled technique used to improve joint mobility and reduce pain. It is only used with your consent and when clinically appropriate.

What is the best treatment for sciatic nerve pain?

Sciatica often responds well to a combination of manual therapy, nerve-gliding exercises, gentle joint mobilisation, and soft tissue release to reduce irritation around the lower back and pelvis. Medical acupuncture can also help ease muscle spasm and nerve tension. To prevent future flare-ups we explore life-style changes, relaxation techniques and a hypnotic technique known as pain reprocessing therapy. An assessment helps identify whether your sciatica is caused by disc irritation, joint dysfunction, nerve sensitivity or muscular tension.

Can an osteopath treat shoulder pain?

Yes. Osteopathy is commonly used to treat rotator cuff strain, frozen shoulder, postural shoulder pain, and sports-related injuries. Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation, restoring movement, and improving the function of surrounding muscles and joints. We also provide stretching and strengthening advice as well as techniques to improve confidence in performing painful movements to support long-term recovery.

Why would someone need an osteopath?

People visit an osteopath for many reasons, including:

- Persistent back or neck pain

- Joint stiffness or restricted movement

- Muscle tension and postural strain

- Sports injuries

- Headaches linked to neck tension and primary headache

- Sciatica or nerve irritation

- General aches from work or daily life

- Stress induced pain

If pain is interfering with your routine, movement, or sleep, an osteopath can help identify the cause and guide you toward recovery.

What is the difference between an osteopath and a chiropractor?

Both treat musculoskeletal pain, but their approaches differ.

Osteopaths focus on the whole body, using a wide range of techniques including soft tissue work, joint mobilisation, manipulation, stretching, and lifestyle advice.

Chiropractors typically focus more on spinal adjustments.

Osteopathy tends to be broader and more holistic, tailoring treatment to your overall movement, posture, and daily habits. However, this is very generalised, depending on your practitioner you may get a more holistic Chiropractor or more adjustment focused Osteopath. The best thing to do is to enquire about the treatment styles of the practitioner you are interested in seeing.

Is osteopathy medically proven?

Yes. Osteopathy is a recognised form of primary healthcare in the UK, regulated by the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC). Many techniques used in osteopathy, such as; manual therapy, joint mobilisation, and exercise prescription are supported by clinical research. It is considered safe and effective for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions.

How many osteopathy sessions will I need?

Most people notice improvement within 3-4 sessions, but long-standing or complex pain may require a longer treatment plan. During your first appointment, we’ll assess your symptoms, outline what to expect, and discuss how many sessions are likely to help you achieve lasting results. Our aim is to give you relief as efficiently as possible.

Qigong - Free Classes and Affiliations

Qigong is a wonderful alternative to yoga and pilates. With similar roots to Yoga this ancient practice helps you develop the connection between your mind and body by using the principles of Taichi, the fighting style of which Qigong comes from. All actions are slow and safe to perform as it teaches you how to best move within your capabilities. Unlike Yoga, Qigong focuses solely on flow. Think of it as teaching you to oil your joints rather than stretch your muscles. Because of this Qigong is excellent at promoting balance and stability, two essential traits when recovering from chronic pain, including arthritic pain as well as preventing fall risk and muscle spasm.,

At My Village Osteopath we will be hosting free classes every other Sunday so watch the space for updates.

For a more in depth focus of Qigong contact Ki-ways below.

Ki-Ways

Welcome to My Village Osteopath

Welcome to My Village Osteopath

Review Section

About My Village Osteopath

We believe

What to expect at your first appointment

Conditions We Treat

Contact Us

My Village Osteopath

Email us here!

Why would I need an Osteopath?

Qigong - Free Classes and Affiliations

Partners and Regulatory Bodies

Welcome to My Village Osteopath

Welcome to My Village Osteopath

Review Section

About My Village Osteopath

We believe

What to expect at your first appointment

Conditions We Treat

Contact Us

My Village Osteopath

Email us here!

Why would I need an Osteopath?

Qigong - Free Classes and Affiliations

Partners and Regulatory Bodies

Connect With Us

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