Osteopathy

Osteopathy is a type of complementary medicine, recognised by the British Medical Association. It is a system of assessing, diagnosing, preventing and treating a huge array of health problems. It uses various types of manual treatments to the body in order to restore blood and nerve supply to musculoskeletal structures. Some of the main conditions that Osteopaths treat are listed below:

• Joint Pain

• Muscular Pain

• Neck pain

• Back pain

• Headaches

• Sports injuries

• Pain and postural problems e.g. relating to pregnancy, arthritis or working conditions.

It can also be helpful for other problems including:

• Circulatory problems

• Digestive issues

• Neuralgia

• Baby related issues

Cranial Osteopathy

Cranial Osteopathy is a gentle yet extremely effective form of treatment, which locates various stresses and strains in the body to then release them. It works by feeling a very subtle, rhythmical shape change that is present in all body tissues.  This is called the Involuntary Motion or the Cranial Rhythm.

Cranial osteopathy is particularly effective when the musculoskeletal system has been compromised or depleted by injury, disease, trauma and stress. The body can get into chronic compensatory patterns of stress and cranial can be used to unwind these patterns. This is especially the case with babies who may have been affected by the birthing process and as a result are suffering from various problems e.g. suckling problems, colic or reflux. It is also helpful in adults and used to relieve symptoms of tinnitus, migraines, and vertigo, among others.  

Frozen Shoulder

Carla has particular interest in treating the shoulder and has worked in a clinic specialising in Adhesive Capsulitis (frozen shoulder), along with other shoulder problems.  The shoulder joint is made up of four joints and eighteen muscles. It sacrifices stability for mobility, which leaves it vulnerable to injury. Carla uses neuromuscular techniques which target a series of trigger points in order to cause a neurological process to help regain normal range of movement and strength of the shoulder.

Yoga

Exercise is key in recovery and prevention from many musculoskeletal disorders. Carla uses many yoga based postures, meditation and breathing techniques as the basis for prescribing exercises for patients, as well as teaching private yoga sessions. Combining an osteopathic approach with the ancient practises of yoga allows for an optimum approach to healing. Yoga is is a meditative form of movement and the benefits to health are extensive. It comes from the word 'yoke' which means 'union', as in union of mind, body and spirit. This can be compared to the osteopathic 'triangle of health'.  Good health depends on the balance between three key elements; the physical structure of the body, biochemical/nutritional requirements and a person's psychological well being.

Paediatrics

The subtle, gentle and non-intrusive technique used in cranial osteopathy works well with babies and children.  It can help relax and ease babies suffering with sleeping problems, colic or constipation to name just a few.

Osteopathy can help children at any stage of their development. Babies and children respond well to treatment as the bones that form the skull have not yet fully fused and are therefore more mobile. This is what helps at birth, this subtle mobility allows the baby’s head to be pushed through the birth canal. However, it also leaves the bones in the head more vulnerable to stresses and strains during labour, especially when there has been use of ventouse or forceps. Although many resolve on their own, some might remain causing much discomfort. Techniques used in Cranial aim at identifying these specific stresses and strains so that they can then be released. Areas of tensions or pressure which are not treated can not only have a musculoskeletal /postural effect but also affect neurological development by affecting the cranial nerves, which are small nerves that stem from the brain and travel down to the rest of the body. These nerves help control the digestive system and muscles in the face. This is why babies often present with latching problems and digestive discomfort.

Treatment may take place at the head, base of the spine and abdomen depending on the presenting symptoms. It is not uncomfortable for children, they can be held by parents, be fed, talk to or play with toys during their session. It can be very difficult for mothers to travel when they have just had a baby and therefore an option of a home visit in London areas may be offered.

Nutrition

Nutrition is one of the elements of 'the triangle of health', it can therefore play a key role in recovery, especially for someone who is suffering from chronic pain. Carla uses the naturopathic approach to nutrition, which offers a useful tool in returning to good health. Carla is happy to give advise on diet and help make changes where necessary.