Lisa Halse – DO

Osteopath and Certified Hakomi Method Practitioner

I trained at the European School of Osteopathy (a four year full time course) qualifying in 1992. I chose this school because its programme integrated various approaches within Osteopathy, including working with the organs of the body and with the cranial mechanism.

I have a particular interest in exploring Osteopathy in the Cranial Field. This work focuses on how best to support the intention of the clients self-healing mechanism. My interest in working with children began during my training and, after qualifying, I worked at the Osteopathic Centre for Children in London. For 11 years I was part of a team of Homoeopaths and Osteopaths running a children’s clinic in Sheffield, this has now closed. Prior to my training I practised massage, reflexology, metamorphic technique and stress management. I also have a degree in Theatre Language, which involved movement, writing, acting and directing.

An Osteopathic Consultation

At your first consultation, I will take a detailed case history to uncover the sequence of events involved in you seeking help. I then use observation and palpation(touch to examine you. You will usually be asked to undress to your underwear and perform a simple range of movement tests e.g. bending to the side. Osteopaths are trained to look at both the effects of strain patterns in the body from postural effects, trauma, and life events such as pregnancy, as well as your ability to compensate.

Following the examination a diagnosis is made and a treatment plan is explained to you. As well as the osteopathic treatment, this plan may include postural advice, suggestions about diet, exercise or lifestyle changes, and possibly referral to another professional e.g. your GP, a homeopath, or counsellor. The intention of treatment is to re-establish the intrinsic health and order in your cells and tissues, whatever the disorder or pathology which may be present.

Osteopathic Technique

Osteopathy uses manipulation, the skilful use of the hands to facilitate your own healing. I use various techniques as appropriate, from the very subtle ‘cranial’ techniques described below, through soft tissue work, articulation of the joints, to quickly taking a joint through its range of movement where sometimes a “pop” is heard, like when you crack your knuckles.

Most osteopaths develop their art individually, choosing a variety of preferred techniques, which means that patients may experience quite a difference in style between practitioners.