What We Offer
Osteopathy is a discrete medical speciality, which concentrates on the diagnosis and treatment of complaints involving the body's muscles, tendons, joints, discs, nerves, ligaments and, in particular, how they relate to the body's mechanics, function and posture. In practice, this most commonly relates to musculoskeletal problems such as back and neck pain.
In response to physical knocks or emotional stress, the body's tissues contract. Any stresses, strains, tensions or traumas, which are unresolved in the body, restrict the body's functioning and may give rise to problems over the years. The effects may be both physical (such as back pain, migraine or digestive disorders) and emotional (such as anxiety or depression).
Osteopaths are trained to feel both the subtle and larger physical motions in the body, and use this to identify areas where there is congestion or restriction. Osteopathic treatment uses hands-on techniques to help restore motion, reduce inflammation and tension, enhance blood flow and lymphatic drainage, to enable the body to return to better function.
A detailed knowledge and understanding of the structure and function of the human musculo-skeletal system enables osteopaths to identify faults which occur because of injury or mechanical stress, and to treat not just the symptoms but the underlying causes of the problem.
The osteopath's assessment, diagnosis and treatment are patient centred and tailored to you as an individual. Factors such as your job, posture, sports and previous injuries will be taken into account when treating and giving advice. As some patients are on prescribed medications and under the care of a G.P, the assessment also takes this into account. The treatment is then tailored towards complementing orthodox medicine, keeping the GP informed and up to date of all treatment given.
As the strength of the techniques can be easily adapted, Osteopathy is a great treatment for all ages, from new borns to the elderly and can be used to treat a variety of conditions:
Back Pain & Neck Pain Headaches & Migraine Arthritic Pains Joint & Muscle Pain Disc Injuries Whiplash Frozen Shoulder Trapped Nerves RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury) Stiffness Rheumatic Pain Post Surgery Rehabilitation Spinal Degeneration Pre and Post Natal Care Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Growing Pains Shoulder Injuries Sports Injuries And Many More
Cranial Osteopathy is a refined and subtle type of osteopathic treatment that encourages the release of stresses and tensions throughout the body, including the head. It is a gentle yet extremely effective approach and may be used in a wide range of conditions for individuals of all ages, from birth to old age.
The human skull and face are comprised of several bones, each bone expressing a small amount of movement along the line where it joins its neighbouring bones. Collectively, the bones move, causing a very subtle, rhythmic shape change that is present throughout the head and body. This is known as the involuntary mechanism or the cranial rhythm. Cranial Osteopaths are trained to feel these movements and use gentle but specific hand holds to release compressions in both the head and the rest of the body.
Babies and Children
It is a common belief that babies and children should have no structural stresses or strains on their bodies because they are so 'young'. The reality is often different.
Birth is one of the most stressful events of our lives and the baby is subjected to enormous forces, as the uterus pushes to expel the baby.
The baby's head has the remarkable ability to absorb these stresses in normal delivery. However, if the mother and baby have undergone a more traumatic labour and delivery, the compressions and the duration for which they exist may give rise to several different problems. Aspects of the birth such as long or rapid labour, failure to fully dilate, foetal distress, cord around the neck, emergency Caesarean or the use of ventous or forceps may give rise to skull compressions leading to colic, excessive crying, problems settling, problems feeding and regurgitation.
The presence of a new baby in the world is a big change and the presence of symptoms can be hard to distinguish from 'normal'. A baby having gone through any birth complications is better examined and treated earlier rather than later.
Toddlers and young children can have developmental problems of their own relating to many factors, such as their growth rate and immune system.
Problems such as glue-ear, squints, bedwetting, where there has been a fall or an accident resulting in any force to the head, neck, spine or tail bone are treated in a similar way to earlier problems. If appropriate, muscle stretching, joint moving and exercises can be incorporated.
After treatment, children can be unsettled for 24 - 36 hours, this is normal. However, if you are concerned please don't hesitate to contact us.
In adults, cranial osteopathy can be used in conjunction with structural osteopathy to treat whiplash, stress and tension, headaches, bowel conditions, jaw pain and many more conditions.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)/Myalgic Encephalopathy (M.E) and Post Viral Fatigue Syndrome is a physical disorder that leads to a build up of toxins within the brain and the spine. The Perrin Technique™ has been developed to diagnose CFS/ME by identifying definite physical signs and to treat the disorder by improving drainage of these poisons from the central nervous system.
The Perrin Technique is based on Dr Perrin's theory, where different stress factors whether physical, allergies, emotional or infections lead to an overstrain of the sympathetic nervous system. Further investigation has led to a probable cause of this nervous system overload being a build up of toxins in the fluid around the brain and the spinal cord.
The Perrin Technique of Diagnosing CFS/ME
Dr Perrin has discovered definite physical signs common to all CFS/ME sufferers and thus he has developed a physical examination with a definite diagnosis.
The Perrin Technique of Treating CFS/ME
Lymph vessels carry lymph, which is a transparent bodily fluid collected from all tissues and eventually returned to the blood. The lymphatic system is a secondary waste disposal unit within the body, which flushes out the waste products of the cells and foreign bodies that are toxic to us.
The Perrin Technique is an osteopathic approach that manually stimulates the fluid motion around the brain and spinal cord. Manipulation of the spine further aids drainage of these toxins out of this fluid. Massaging the soft tissues in the head, neck, back and chest direct all the toxins out of the lymphatic system and into the blood, where they are eventually detoxified in the liver.
Eventually with no poisons affecting the brain, the sympathetic nervous system begins to function correctly, and providing the patients do not overstrain themselves their symptoms should gradually improve and in time some patients become totally symptom free.
Zubin Morar is a licensed Perrin Technique practitioner, currently only one of two in the South West London area. He was taught by Dr Perrin himself and follows the strict treatment regime devised, to provide the best results.
The Perrin technique is used is conjunction with several mineral and vitamin supplements that encourage the drainage of toxins within the body. It is essential that these are taken, otherwise the progress will be slowed.
For more information call the centre on 020 8878 2731
You can also visit: http://www.theperrinclinic.com
Acupuncture is one of the most popular and well-established forms of complementary medicine in the UK. It is a branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that's been practised for thousands of years.
There are currently about 3,000 acupuncturists in the UK, with a small proportion being doctors, physiotherapists and dentists.
Small, fine acupuncture needles are inserted, either by hand or through a guide tube, at different points on your body, often on the wrists, ankles and feet, back and abdomen. As the needles are inserted, you shouldn't feel anything apart from a mild sensation or slight soreness. It should not be painful.
Just a few or quite a number of needles may be used during the treatment and they can be of different lengths and thicknesses depending on the part of your body being treated.
There is a growing body of research evidence on the effectiveness of acupuncture, especially to treat nausea (particularly postoperative), dental problems, musculoskeletal problems such as lower backache, frozen shoulder, carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow and other joint pains.
However, this treatment also has a much wider scope. Patients often present with a range of symptoms which conventional drug therapy has had limited or little effect in relieving.
A 2005 report says approximately one million NHS acupuncture treatments and two million private treatments take place in England every year.
Acupuncture can effectively be used to progress recovery and has a proven track record against conditions such as migraines and headaches, dizziness, insomnia, hay fever, osteoarthritis, neck pain, prostate problems, bed-wetting, labour pain, IBS and a variety of menstrual problems.
In other cases, treatment is carried out in tandem with drug therapy, for example, for asthma or fertility problems.
Acupuncture is effective with the aim of reducing the withdrawal symptoms people experience when they try to quit smoking. This can be applied across the board to many alcohol and drug dependant addictions.
In most cases, there has been a greater or lesser degree of anxiety or depression in the patient, and treatment has been especially effective in relieving this.
Smell has always been the most powerful and perhaps one of the most instinctive of all our senses. Essential oils are aromatic extracts distilled from plants, trees and herbs. The scents from these oils are believed to activate nerve cells in the nose which send impulses to the limbic system, the area of the brain associated with emotions and memories.
Each Essential Oil the therapist uses during treatment is highly concentrated and possesses its own unique healing property and fragrance. Blending therapeutic essential oils for massage, inhalation or topical application can stimulate well-being. It also encourage a healthy mental, physical and emotional body and consequently stimulate the body's own healing mechanisms.
Aromatherapy is based on a holistic approach, which seeks to encourage health on all levels. It promotes a more balanced lifestyle, increasing vitality and greatly reduces the likelihood of succumbing to everyday illness, especially during the cold and dark winter months! It is not intended to replace standard medical care, but is meant to complement it. Aromatherapy can offer practical benefits for a variety of common ailments or symptoms. These include, assisting with recovery after illness/surgery, bruises, inflammation, indigestion, PMS, menstruation, hormone imbalance and for providing emotional support with such issues as stress, fatigue, anxiety and fear. The list is extensive!
Reiki is a form of energy healing that was started in the late 1800's by Dr Mikao Usui, following many years of research into ancient Sanskrit Sutra's.
This type of healing offers client's a completely holistic approach to resolving the cause of any problem, not just the symptoms, regardless of whether they are physical or emotional.
Through focused intention, this natural form of healing boosts the body to heal itself and empowers your system back to health and balance. This treatment is completely non-invasive, working with energy points on the human body, correcting imbalances and areas of stagnation.
Whether a client has had an illness or disease for a short or long duration of time, Reiki can help. It is a particularly effective treatment for anxiety, depression, stress, sleep disorders and also helps to boost the immune system, benefiting and complementing treatments for cancer and any other post operative complaints or procedures.
Clients who regularly use this treatment find that Reiki helps them to feel more 'laid back' - calm, and content. They are more able to deal with stressful situations or people, and feel more positive and better equipped to cope with day to day challenges. If energy levels are low then they can be boosted; if spirits are low then they can be lifted. This 'Reiki effect' seems to be noticed in people who receive a course of Reiki treatments and are open to its benefits.
Claire Rudderham studied at the Hitchin Natural Therapy Centre in Hertfordshire and completed all of her training to practitioner level in June 2006.
Ladio Marismari attained his practitioner qualification at the Reiki Tree Academy in Maidenhead in October 2005.
This Massage is a popular treatment based on the Ayurvedic system of healing which has been practiced in India for over a thousand years. The origin of shampoo comes from a Hindi word 'champi'. Being 'champi-ed' meant having your head massaged. Massage is probably the oldest therapy known to man, and has been practised in the Far and the Middle East for at least 5000 years.
This technique involves working on the upper back, shoulders, neck, scalp and face with a wide variety of massage movements.
The aim of Indian head massage is to release the stress that has accumulated in the tissues, muscles and joints of the head, face, neck and shoulders.
The therapist uses a range of different movements including application of deep kneading, compression movements, flicks, stretches, tapping and chopping over the shoulders, neck and scalp. On the face the pressure points are gently stimulated to activate the body's natural energy flow.
This massage has also been augmented with Shiatsu techniques, to enhance the healing process and cover areas that would not normally be approached by the standard Indian Head Massage technique, consequently, the session will usually last from 50-60 minutes.
Indian Head Massage is especially good for relieving stress, tension, neck/shoulder stiffness, fatigue and insomnia, and for clearing headaches, migraines, mental tiredness, eye strain, ear problems, and sinusitis. Clients report that the experience is deeply calming and relaxing, leaving them feeling energised and revitalised and better able to concentrate.
In all, the benefits are increased joint mobility and flexibility in the neck and shoulders, improved blood circulation and lymphatic flow, reduction of knots of muscular tension, a relaxation of connective tissue, and aiding in the elimination of accumulated toxins and waste products. It is particularly good for reducing the effects of stress and tension.
Thai Foot and Hand Massage is a wonderfully soothing and beneficial treatment. It is part traditional Thai massage and the treatment incorporates elements of Shiatsu, Chinese massage and Reflexology. A gentle & highly effective treatment, this relaxing massage has been practiced in Thailand for over 3000 years.
It improves circulation and stimulates lymphatic drainage, also helping to remove toxins, boosting the immune system, reducing stiffness and improving flexibility by relaxing connective tissue.
Other benefits include acceleration of physical healing and help with combating stress, insomnia, joint mobility and flexibility, mental fatigue and indirectly boosting the main organs within the body. Conditions on the body, can be pinpointed and relieved through the soles of the feet, accessing reflexology points to clear blockages and stimulate recovery.
The client simply lies comfortably on a massage couch fully clothed but with loose fitting trousers, as the therapist manipulates the legs, ankles, feet and hands.Thai Foot Massage is the ultimate popular therapeutic massage for the extremities and is great for maintaining health, balance and general well being.
Why choose psychotherapy and counselling?
Often a crisis or major life event starts us thinking about therapy or counselling for ourselves. Sometimes, though, we are just miserable or depressed in our day to day lives, and looking for a way to gain greater clarity around our thoughts, feelings and behaviour. Often we want to improve the quality of our lives and have better relationships, or have someone to talk to and listen to our story in a supportive way.
Psychotherapy gives us the time and space in a non-judgemental, safe, supportive and confidential environment to reflect on what works for us in our lives and to recognise changes we might like to make.
Through therapy we gain greater awareness of our emotions and our behaviours. With this awareness we feel more in control of our lives, are able to make informed choices, and we come to recognise more options available to us. In this way we often become more contented with our lives and who we are.
Pilates
Pilates is a complete exercise method developed by its founder Joseph Pilates over the course of a lifetime dedicated to improving physical and mental health.
Pilates focuses on building your body's core strength and improving your posture through a series of low repetition low impact stretching and conditioning exercises.
By the term "core strength" we mean your back, abdominal and pelvic muscles. Through Pilates, you will be able to develop these muscles without adding bulk, increasing your flexibility and agility and at the same time toning your stomach and thigh muscles.
However, Pilates goes far beyond your core muscles and not only provides a complete body workout (you will be working muscles you didn't even know you had!), but also helps you develop an awareness of how your body works, helping your mind and body to work in harmony.
The Eight Principles of Pilates
- Relaxation
- Alignment
- Control
- Precision
- Routine
- Breathing
- Centring
- Flowing movement
Getting Started With Pilates
The best way to get started with Pilates is to join a class and learn the basics from a qualified Pilate's teacher. Pilate's classes are held at the centre at convenient times throughout the week. We offer classes for all abilities in the morning, afternoon and evening and a special mother and baby class. Please call the centre for information.
Pilates is beneficial for:
- General fitness and body awareness
- Pregnancy: Pre and post natal
- Injury prevention
- Remedial and rehabilitation work
- Improvement of technique for athletes and dancers
- The elderly
Pilates helps to:
- Increase and create a balance between strength and flexibility
- Create an awareness of and strengthen dynamic stability
- Improve coordination
- Release stress
- Improve posture
Hatha Yoga
Hatha yoga dates back to the 6th century AD. Yoga comes from the Sanskrit word 'yug' meaning to unite.
Through the practice of Yoga you learn to unite the mind and body. 'Hatha' is the physical practice of yoga and directly translated means will or force, so this form of yoga is called the yoga of will. You will learn how to gain more control over your physical body by practising asanas (postures) and pranayama (breath control).
Hatha yoga is an excellent place to start if you are new to yoga as it will introduce you to lots of commonplace asanas and as the mastery over your physical body increases so does the level of your practice.
Yoga is very different from general physical exercise, which can be done without thinking. Physical exercise can be performed in front of the TV or with loud music with no consideration to what the body needs that day. Exercise sessions can end up being unbalanced with focus on strength and not flexibility or cardio fitness but not strength; backbends are not followed by a counter pose. In Hatha yoga the classes are designed to give you increased flexibility, strength and keep your heart and lungs healthy, but it also connects your mind and emotions to each posture. Giving you a stronger, balanced body, and clearer mind.
Yoga teaches which breathing technique to use to stop headaches or when you need a boast of energy so you can leave the coffee pot alone! You will learn which postures give you focus or strength of mind. The more experienced you become the more you will be able to interpret your body's needs into postures.
Iyengar-inspired Yoga focuses on the correct alignment of the body in the asana or posture, so that each individual part, as well as the various physiological systems, may function to their best potential.
Yoga is excellent for healing the body after injury, dealing with back and neck pain, improving circulation and it is also the first step to meditation.
The more you help your Self the more you are able to help others.
Introducing YogaBugs. Yoga Classes for Kids
The benefits of Yoga can now be taught to your child, helping to promote balance, focus, good health and a generous sprinkling of fun.
The length of a class varies from 30 to 40 minutes, depending on the age of the children, and can be taught successfully to a mixed age class of 3-7 year olds or to individual year groups.
Each class consists of warm up exercises followed by an exciting story, during which they are taught yoga postures that represent characters and animals in the story.
Popular themes are, Winter Olympics Adventure, Hawaiian Adventure and Jungle Adventure. YogaBugs story's can be tailored to reflect what the children are studying elsewhere in the curriculum augmenting educational material.
When time allows, fun Yoga games and songs can be included. The session ends with positive relaxation, using visualisation techniques and calming breathing. These are particularly useful tools for children, teaching them how to relax and simply enjoy switching off.
All they need is clothing that allows them to move freely - PE kit and bare feet are perfect.
Hot Stone Massage involves the use specially selected and carefully heated basalt lava stones within a full body massage, providing a nurturing and enhanced therapeutic effect.
The therapist places the stones on certain key points on the body, including in-between the toes! One or two heated stones are then used to gently massage of the body.
This technique creates a sensation of comfort and warmth, while the heat of the stones relaxes muscles. Hot Stone Massage is beneficial for treating conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, MS, chronic back pain, stress and anxiety, insomnia and depression.
This treatment can be incorporated with Aromatherapy to provide a deeply relaxing and de-stressing treatment.