David Graham

David Graham

David qualified from the prestigious University College of Osteopathy in London and started his practice life in Cumbria, where he is originally from before then moving back to London to work in private practice in clinics across the city. He has a passion for helping people do more of the things that are important to them, whatever they may be. His approach is to not just treat your injury but focus on the patient as a whole person.

David’s approach is a very structural “hands-on” approach to Osteopathy and uses a combination of soft tissue massage techniques, joint articulation, joint manipulation and dry needling to help his patients achieve their desired goals and outcomes. He has a keen interest in biomechanics and how the body works as a unit and likes to get his patients involved in their own recovery through the prescription of home exercises and home-care advice.

When not working David has a keen interest in fitness himself, regularly working out at the gym, occasionally climbing, cycling and challenging himself physically. He is always learning and looking to further his knowledge in human movement and how to live an overall healthy life.

Understanding Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most common health complaints, affecting people of all ages and lifestyles.

Back pain may vary from a slight niggling ache to sharp debilitating pain that can affect every part of the back and also radiate to other areas of the body. It can be caused by poor posture, muscle imbalances, injury, or stress, and often disrupts daily activities and overall well-being. Whether it’s acute discomfort or a chronic issue, untreated back pain can lead to further complications over time.

 

How Osteopathy Can Help

Osteopathic practice is a safe and effective form of prevention, diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of health problems, including back pain. Often back pain resolves quickly by itself, but if it persists for more than a few days, an osteopath may be able to help.

Osteopaths look at the health of your body as a whole and aim to ensure all your bones, muscles and joints are functioning smoothly together. At Guiseley Osteopathic Centre, we take a holistic approach to back pain treatment, fully assessing and addressing the root cause of the issue rather than just the symptoms. We use gentle physical manipulation, stretching and massage with the aim of increasing the mobility of joints and relieving muscle tension. Techniques together with exercise and advice designed to promote and maintain the best environment for a healthy back. Research evidence shows that these osteopathic treatments can have beneficial effects, especially for back pain.

Our osteopathic treatments are designed to:

  1. Relieve Pain: We use gentle, hands-on techniques such as soft tissue massage, myofascial release, articulatory techniques, joints and spinal adjustments to reduce muscle tension and alleviate discomfort.
  2. Restore Movement: Osteopathy helps improve flexibility and mobility in the spine, reduces muscle tension, allowing you to move more freely and comfortably.
  3. Correct Postural Imbalances: By identifying and addressing poor posture and alignment, we help to prevent further strain on your back.
  4. Promote Long-term Healing: We focus on improving your overall biomechanics and strengthening your core to support long-term back health.

Why Choose Osteopathy for Back Pain?

*                            Holistic Care: Osteopathy treats the entire body, considering how other areas may be contributing to your back pain.

*                            Non-invasive Techniques: Our treatments are gentle and tailored to your needs, providing effective relief without surgery or medication. Osteopathic adjustments provide a safe and effective treatment for back pain and are a proven way of relieving pain and rehabilitating the spine.

*                            Personalised Plans: Each treatment plan is unique, ensuring your specific back pain issues are addressed.

WHAT HAPPENS AT YOUR APPOINTMENT?

 

A first appointment will involve a consultation assessment and possibly some initial treatment. The osteopath will talk to you about your general health, your back pain, and what treatment you are having. They will look at your whole body concerning your back pain and may observe you making simple movements and stretches. In addition to this, they will also feel and examine your joints, ligaments and tissues. Osteopaths are highly trained professionals skilled in diagnosing health issues, including those that may require further investigation.

The method used to treat your back pain will be bespoke to you as it depends on location, the length of time you have been experiencing the pain, the extent of the pain, your age, and any relevant medical history. The treatment often focuses on releasing tension, stretching muscles, and improving mobility – all of which may help relieve pain.

 

There is no need to consult a GP before visiting an osteopath, although you may wish to do so. An osteopath can give advice about methods to aid recovery and maintain a healthy back.

 

Take the First Step to a Pain-Free Back

At Guiseley Osteopathic Centre, we are committed to helping you live pain-free and regain your quality of life. Book an appointment today to learn how our osteopathic treatments can provide effective, lasting relief from back pain. Let us help you move with confidence and ease!

Neck pain affects people of all ages and is often linked to posture, prolonged computer use, driving, stress, or tiredness, causing tight muscles and stiff joints. Sometimes, nerve irritation in the neck can lead to pain radiating into the shoulder, arm, or hand, often with numbness or pins and needles. Headaches, osteoarthritis, and degenerative disc disease can also contribute to neck discomfort.

Osteopathy can effectively manage neck pain by reducing muscle tension, improving joint movement, and alleviating discomfort through techniques such as soft tissue manipulation, joint articulation, and tailored exercises. Severe cases may require referral to a GP for further investigation.

 

Common Causes and Treatments:

 

* Degenerative Disc Disease: Age-related changes in spinal discs can cause stiffness or intense pain. Treatment includes manual therapy, exercises, and, if necessary, referral for medical imaging.

* Cervical Spondylosis (Neck Arthritis): Wear and tear in neck joints may lead to inflammation and limited mobility. Osteopathic care focuses on improving flexibility and easing pain.

* Disc Herniation: Damaged discs can press on nerves, causing significant pain. Treatment includes gentle manipulation and traction, with medication as needed.

* Facet Joint Pain: Joint inflammation can cause spasms and a tilted neck. Gentle joint techniques and mobility exercises provide relief.

* Postural Strain: Prolonged poor posture strains neck muscles, leading to tension headaches. Osteopaths address this with massage, posture advice, and workplace ergonomics.

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When to Seek Medical Advice:

Consult a doctor for severe pain, numbness, high fever, or light sensitivity, as these may indicate non-musculoskeletal causes such as infections, fibromyalgia, or serious injuries.

Let osteopathy help restore balance and alleviate neck pain to improve your quality of life. Book a consultation today!