Osteopaths at The Dove Practice are happy to help patients with any treatment listed above.

Sciatica

Sciatica is caused by damage to one or more intervertebral discs which bulge causing compression of the sciatic nerve. This compression sends pain shooting down the leg on one side of the body, even as far as the foot. If, in the worst case, one of the nerve roots is irritated the condition can cause extreme pain, numbness and loss of muscle control. A damaged nerve root can take many weeks or even months to recover and, even then, residual numbness may take as long as a year or more to fully subside. Osteopaths treating sciatica will use very gentle techniques to address the bulging disc without irritating the nerve root. Experienced professionals will try to relieve any pressure on the root of the nerve, however this is an extremely delicate procedure as the treatment may risk exacerbating the underlying problem.

Colic

Colic is the name given to babies who suffer intense episodes of uncontrollable crying which may persist for hours at time. Colic affects very young babies is typically by the time the baby is 6 months old. There is no single recognised cause for colic.Theories include gastro-intestinal immaturity, wind, and food intolerance. Whilst it is not a dangerous illness it is nevertheless a cause of great discomfort for both the baby and parents who will find it as difficult to sleep as their off-spring. The symptoms vary but tend to include an inability to sleep partcularly on the back, stomach pain, and vomiting. Many parents have found cranial osteopathy to be an effective treatment providing relief to babies who often benefits from even the first treatment, leaving much calmer and more relaxed.