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The objective of The International Society for Osteopathic Practice is and always has been to promote the benefits of Osteopathy and to maintain the education and professionalism of Osteopathic Medicine. Osteopaths are mainstream health providers who are able to treat patients without referral from another health provider such as a general practitioner, but will also refer when necessary for x-ray or other tests or assessments if necessary.
Osteopathy is a branch of medicine which views the body as a whole and complete unit with each part having a distinct relationship with each other. The most common problems treated by osteopaths are neck and back pain. But osteopaths also treat a wide range of other ailments including headaches, asthma, respiratory, digestive, gynaecological dysfunction and chronic fatigue.
Osteopaths use a wide range of techniques including soft tissue work (stretching and massage); mobilisation (rhythmic joint movement); cranial work and manipulation.
The use of manipulation is tailored to the individual and their complaint and osteopaths sometimes avoid manipulation altogether - for example when treating children.
Some osteopaths practise a technique known as osteopathy in the cranial field. Practitioners use gentle techniques (often on the bones of the skull) which can correct certain dysfunctions in the body.
Osteopaths are ACC and Health Insurer providers, are members of the Osteopathic Council of New Zealand, and have the initials DO (Doctor of Osteopathy) after their name.
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