Osteopathic treatments hit the big time

It was noted at last year’s Paris Olympics that osteopaths had been assigned to federations and integrated into teams at the Games’ official clinic.

Dr James Lally, who served as chief medical officer for the International Olympic Committee Medical and Scientific Commission in Paris, told the American Osteopathic Association that since competitors preferred not to take medication during high-profile events, osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) had become a “favoured modality”.

Osteopathy is very much viewed as a “people-centric” discipline where therapists evaluate, diagnose and manage the musculoskeletal system and how it relates to other systems in the body.

Osteopaths will first ask a client about their lifestyle, medical history and any symptoms before moving on to the physical exam. From there a treatment plan is put in place.

Famous names like tennis’s Roger Federer and basketball’s Steve Curry have both successfully incorporated osteopathy into their regimens.

There are many crossovers between osteopathy and physiotherapy, with the main difference lying in their respective training backgrounds.

Physiotherapists usually complete a three or four year degree with NHS placements in hospitals, GP surgeries and community clinics. Including two years learning on the job in all the different disciplines in the NHS after their university training.

Osteopaths complete a three or four-year degree, with two years spent treating patients at university clinic which comprises specialised clinics for sportsmen and women, older adults, expecting mothers and HIV patients.

Osteopathy is one of 14 Allied Health Professions recognised by the NHS.

Ultra Sports Clinic senior osteopath Anita Saethorsdottir draws on a wide range of methods to support her patients – from hands-on treatment and dry-needling to active movements, personalised exercise programmes and practical advice.

All these methods are aimed at reducing symptoms, promoting recovery and reducing the risk of problems returning.

Many of her patients suffer from different sports-related injuries as well as common issues such as back pain, neck pain, different joint pain, arthritis, headaches and sciatica, to name a few.

“We look at the root cause of the pain rather than just the symptoms,” Anita explains.

She says a great misconception is that osteopaths do not include exercise therapy or an active approach to treatment. 

The treatment has moved with the times and today many in her profession place great emphasis on exercise therapy as part of the overall programme.

Anita adds that choosing between osteopathy and physiotherapy is not as obvious as people think. The best choice often depends on:

• The patient’s goals and preferences.

• The practitioner. Anita says more important than the label is finding someone whose approach suits the specific patient and makes them feel heard and understood.

• Availability and access. In some cases, the decision simply comes down to who is closer, has availability or is recommended by someone the patient trusts.

“Whether you choose an osteopath or a physiotherapist, you're likely in good hands,” Anita says.

“What matters most is the individual clinician's skill, experience and how well their approach aligns with your needs. Don't get too caught up in titles – get the care that feels right for you!”

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