Osteopathy is a 'hands on' manual therapy which takes into account a patient's personal and medical history. In combination with dietary, postural and occupational advice as well as counselling, it is a practical and effective treatment for the treatment of a range of illnesses and injuries and also assists in the ongoing management of pain and disease. By paying attention to the significance of any change in structure or function (the joints, muscles, ligaments, bones and connective tissue) an osteopath is able to interpret whole patterns of aches, pains and general health problems. Alteration in the structure of the body leads to reduced or impaired function in its organs and tissues. Compensation gradually builds up until the body is unable to accommodate more change, at which time it may break down at the weakest part, even after something quite trivial.