Osteopaths diagnose and treat conditions that cause pain and disability. They recognise that many common conditions are caused by abnormalities in the structure of the body and the way it functions. The whole body system must be balanced, otherwise problems can arise, such as headaches from bad posture.
Osteopaths treat patients with a range of problems, including back pain, migraine, repetitive strain injury and sports injuries. Individuals who suffer from conditions such as arthritis may visit osteopaths for pain relief.
The osteopath’s first task is to collect information. He or she will:
- obtain a full medical history of the patient
- observe the patient performing simple movements
- examine the patient using a highly developed sense of touch, called palpation, to identify points of weakness and excessive strain
- where appropriate, refer patients for blood tests, x-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans or computer tomography (CT) scans
- make a diagnosis based on the information collected and devise an individual treatment plan for the patient
- use their hands to carry out a wide variety of treatment techniques.
The treatment plan can include:
- using high-velocity thrust manipulation techniques, designed to improve mobility and the range of movement of a joint
- stretching to help joint mobility
- massage to relax muscles
- giving patients exercises to work on at home
- giving advice on diet and lifestyle changes
- referring patients to doctors or complementary therapists.
The number of treatments required varies according to the patient, his or her condition and the duration of the condition. Acute pain may be relieved in one or two sessions, but on average, most patients need four to six treatments.
Hours and environment
Osteopaths must be flexible about their working hours, as many of their patients will prefer appointments outside normal office hours. Evening and weekend work may be necessary. Some practitioners work part time.
Osteopaths may work in private clinics, therapy centres, hospitals, sports clubs and in clinics in large companies. They may also visit patients in their own homes. A driving licence may be useful.
The work can be physically demanding and involves standing and bending.
The charge for a 30-minute treatment session ranges from around €40 to €60. Most osteopaths are self-employed, and the income generated will vary according to the number of patients treated and the amount charged per session.
Skills and personal qualities
An osteopath should:
- have excellent communication and listening skills
- have empathy with patients
- be able to develop the practical techniques used in treatment
- be able to make shy or nervous patients feel at ease
- have a logical approach to diagnosis and be able to decide on the best course of treatment
- have good observational skills
- have physical and mental stamina
- be able to remain professional at all times and avoid emotional involvement with their patients’ problems
- know when to refer a patient to another medical practitioner.
Interests
It is important to:
- be interested in human biology and healthcare
- have a genuine desire to help people.
Getting in
Osteopaths are trained to degree standard attaining either a Batchelor of Science (BSc.) or integrated Masters (MOst.) taking four to five years of study. This includes undertaking a minimum of 1000 hours of patient contact prior to qualification. Many osteopaths also undertake further specialist and advanced training once qualified.
Useful Links:
Osteopathic Council of Ireland
Irish College of Osteopathic Medicine