Osteopathy came into being at 10.00am, 22nd June 1874, through the foresight of an American Medical Doctor by the name of Andrew Taylor Still. He joined forces with a Scotsman (John Martin Littlejohn). Together they created a healing system of diagnosis and therapy, which to this day eludes a definitive definition. One of the many definitions in circulation, from the American Association of Osteopathy, in 1954 states:

"Osteopathic medicine, is a philosophy, a science and an art. Its philosophy embraces the concept of the unity of the body structure and function in health and disease. Its science includes the chemical, physical and biological sciences related to the maintenance of health and the prevention, cure and alleviation of disease. Its art is in the application of the philosophy and the science of the practice of osteopathic medicine."

Osteopaths are used to helping people who are experiencing discomfort. Whether they are a newborn, toddler, child, teenager, young, middle aged or elder adult there is usually some applicable treatment technique to tailor to help the individual. The patient may be office bound, atheletic / active, pre / post pregnancy; or just looking to maintain a homeostatic equilibrium.

Osteopaths provide skilled diagnosis and treatment primarily concerning the structure and function of the body in relation to the bones, joints, muscles, ligaments and other connective tissues. Our practitioners seek to overcome the wide range of diseases resulting from disturbances of the body's framework and moving parts.

Osteopathy is almost as old as modern medicine, finding its way to Britain in the early part of the 20th century, via J.M. Littlejohn. Our profession is considered to be complementary, and not alternative to conventional medical care. It is classed as 'primary contact', so referral by your doctor is welcome but not essential. However on some occasions the best course of action may be to refer you back or to your doctor.

In the UK, since May 2000, it has been against the law for anyone to use the title "Osteopath" unless they are registered with the General Osteopathic Council. To be registered, Osteopaths need to have completed a minimum four-year full time or six-year part time Osteopathic medical degree.