Aches and pains are the most common symptoms for which patients seek treatment. An ache or pain may be specific to a particular joint such as a knee, hip or elbow or generalised across a broad area such as the neck/upper back or low back/leg. It may have developed over years or have come on quite suddenly. It may result from a specific incident (such as lifting, a fall, a sporting activity or a car crash) or from repetitive strain to an area such as from spending long periods at a computer. Often aches and pains are associated with a loss of joint mobility and stiffness.

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There is good evidence that osteopathy is an effective treatment for many conditions which cause aches and pains and joint restrictions such as:

  • Acute and chronic low back pain
  • Acute and chronic neck pain
  • Shoulder girdle pain
  • Adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder)
  • Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow)
  • Hip osteoarthritis
  • Patellofemoral pain syndrome (knee cap pain)
  • Knee osteoarthritis
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Acute whiplash disorders
  • Migraine
  • Headache and dizziness triggered by neck problems

Accumulation of stress and strain in the body

When we experience physical or emotional stresses our body tissues tend to tighten up. The body may have been able to adapt to these effects at the time, but a lasting strain often remains. Any tensions which remain held in the body can restrict its free movement. Gradually the body may find it more and more difficult to cope with accumulated stresses and symptoms may develop.