Osteopathic treatment is a manual treatment; that is, the osteopath uses their hands to manipulate the patient's tissues.

Experience shows that many patients respond better to treatment, when a lighter touch is used and the patient is given time to absorb the changes which have occurred as a result of the treatment. With this approach, there is an emphasis on stretching and relaxing of muscles and connective tissue, with use of rhythmical movements. This induces relaxation, increases joint mobility, and encourages blood flow into and out of the injured area. Treatment focuses on stiff, immobile areas of the body, as well as the injured part.

On the other hand some patients respond better to more vigorous treatment, with deeper work into the muscles and more manipulation of the joints. The best approach therefore is the one which best suits the patient, and the osteopath will adapt his technique to suit the patient.

Manipulation of soft tissues and joints may be supplemented by visceral osteopathy and ultrasound therapy, where appropriate.