Osteopaths at GW Osteopathy General wellness are happy to help patients with any treatment listed above.

Neck stiffness

Neck stiffness is one of the most common conditions presented to ostoepaths. The most typical presentation is a muscle in spasm which is a reaction by the body to protect a deeper primary cause which may be an indication of a more serious neck complaint. Frequently the cause of the pain is a single violent trauma such as a whiplash or sports injury. More worrying would be an underlying degenerative condition weakening the discs in the spinal column. An osteopath will treat this condition most effectively after the worst of the spasm has passed so that the underlying condition may be effectively diagnosed and addressed. Typically rest and ibuprofen will be recommended in the interim. Once the muscles have relaxed manipulation or mobilisation are likely to be beneficial.

Back pain

More than 65% of British men and women will suffer at least one episode of severe back pain during their adult lives. Pain can be caused by a trauma such as an accident or fall or as the result of bad posture, cramped working conditions at a computer or behind a steering wheel or as a result of lifting heavy loads. Frequently the cause is an unexpected event which triggers an underlying disc weakness. The result can be intense pain and, in extreme cases, a complete lack of mobility. Traditional treatment protocols ordinarily resort to drugs and rest. However, the physical therapy professions such as osteopathy can often significantly speed recovery through massage, manipulation and mobilsation of joints.