Osteopaths and chiropractors

What is an osteopath?

Osteopaths treat and diagnose problems with bones, soft tissue and muscles by looking at the function of the body as a whole.

Osteopaths use soft tissue massage and movement (concentrating on the soft tissues) to re-balance the body's structure in a way that enhances blood flow and nerve function. This allows the body's natural healing process to be improved.

Only people registered with the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC) are allowed to call themselves osteopaths.

Chiropractors look at the effect that bones, soft tissue and muscles have on the nervous system, specifically the nerves that run within the spine.

Chiropractors use manipulation to adjust the position of the spine and joints in order to improve the nerve function and healing ability.

All chiropractors must be registered with the General Chiropractic Council (GCC).

Chiropractors and osteopaths provide similar treatments but there are slight differences between the two types of treatment that may make one type of treatment more suitable than another.

A chiropractor is mainly focused on the spine, joints and muscles, while an osteopath also focuses on the rest of the body, such as respiratory or digestive problems. Chiropractic treatment involves the manipulation of the bone alignment (usually the spine). Chiropractors often provide specific treatments (called adjustments) for localised areas in order to improve the position and function of an affected joint.

At the first appointment, the chiropractor or osteopath will assess the symptoms to determine if treatment is suitable and what treatments are likely to help.

Both osteopathy and chiropractic treatments aim to:

• Increase the mobility of the affected joints.

• Relieve muscle tension.

• Improve the blood supply to the affected area.

• Help the body to heal.

Treatment may include mobilisation, massage, manipulation and stretching the affected parts of the body. Treatment will also include advice on lifestyle changes, including activity and exercise plans.

You may also be advised to have tests, such as X-rays or MRI scans, to help diagnose the problem. These tests can be arranged by the osteopath or chiropractor - they should never suggest that your GP can organise these on their behalf. The NHS should not organise tests for private clinicians.

Conditions that may be treated by chiropractors and osteopaths include:

• Low back pain.

• Neck pain.

• Shoulder pain and elbow pain.

• Arthritis.

• Problems affecting the pelvis, hips and legs.

• Sports injuries.

• Muscle and joint pain associated with poor posture.

Chiropractic and osteopathy treatment are generally safe when performed by properly trained professionals. Treatment isn't usually painful but may be uncomfortable.

Mild side-effects such as stiffness and tiredness may occur but usually resolve within a few days. There is a risk of more serious problems, such as stroke, from spinal manipulation, but the risk is very small.

It is important to speak with the chiropractor or osteopath about possible side-effects and risks. A GP will not be able to advise about these treatments as they are not part of normal medical education.

Many people find chiropractic and osteopathy treatment for bone, joint and muscle problems very effective. However the treatments aren't always based on scientific evidence.

Some osteopaths claim to be able to treat conditions that aren't directly related to muscles, bones and joints. These conditions include migraines, painful periods, bowel disorders, depression and colic in babies. There isn't enough evidence to support the claims that osteopathy can treat these problems. This is because it is rare for studies into osteopathy or chiropractic to be properly double blinded or placebo controlled.

Chiropractic treatment and osteopathy are very rarely available on the NHS. Your local ICB (integrated care board) will be advise whether any osteopathy or chiropractic treatment is available in the area.

Most people pay for chiropractic or osteopathy treatment privately. A referral is not needed. Some private health insurance schemes include cover for chiropractic or osteopathic treatment.