More than clicking joints
Plenty of people picture osteopathy as “cracking backs”. In reality it's a hands-on, assessment-led approach to how your body moves — and the click is only ever a small part of it, if it happens at all.
A regulated healthcare profession
Osteopathy focuses on the musculoskeletal system — your muscles, joints and connective tissues, and how they work together. Rather than looking only at where you feel discomfort, an osteopath looks at how you move as a whole, alongside your work, training and lifestyle.
In the UK, osteopaths complete four or five years of degree-level training and must be registered with the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC) to practise. “Osteopath” is a protected title, in the same way as doctor or physiotherapist.
Osteopaths are also trained to recognise when something needs a different kind of care — and will tell you if a referral to your GP or further investigation would be sensible.
The truth about the “click”
“Osteopathy is just cracking bones.”
In reality: manipulation is one technique among many. Most sessions are built around soft tissue work, joint mobilisation, stretching and advice on exercise and movement.
“The click means a bone has gone back into place.”
In reality: the sound is generally thought to come from a release of gas within the fluid of a joint — not from bones moving back into position.
“You'll be clicked whether you like it or not.”
In reality: every technique is explained first, and nothing happens without your consent. If you'd rather avoid manipulation, there are plenty of other options.
What an osteopath may use
Which techniques are used depends on your assessment, your preferences and what you're comfortable with.
Soft tissue work
Massage-style techniques applied to muscles and connective tissue.
Joint mobilisation
Gentle, rhythmic movement of a joint through its range, sometimes called articulation.
Stretching & muscle energy
Stretches and techniques where you gently contract a muscle against light resistance.
Manipulation
A quick, small-amplitude movement of a joint — the technique that can produce a click. Only used where appropriate, and only with your consent.
Exercise & advice
Practical guidance on exercise, training load, posture at work and self-management between sessions.
What a session involves
Conversation
A case history covering what's brought you in, your medical background, and your work, training and lifestyle.
Assessment
Observing how you move, followed by a hands-on examination. You may be asked to remove some layers of clothing.
Treatment
Where appropriate, hands-on treatment — with each technique explained and agreed with you first.
Plan
A clear explanation of what's been found, plus exercises or advice and any next steps.
Osteopathy or sports massage?
Both are hands-on, but they're separate services. If you're not sure which suits you, get in touch and Lance can advise.
Osteopathy
The right starting point if you'd like something assessed. Includes a full case history, clinical examination and treatment where appropriate, with a plan for what comes next.
Book an Initial ConsultationSports Massage
Hands-on soft tissue work, from lighter techniques to deep tissue, tailored to your training and preferences. Doesn't include an osteopathic assessment.
Book a Sports MassageReady to book?
Appointments run at the Chichester home practice. Booking takes a couple of minutes.
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