Osteopathy is a type of alternative medicine that emphasizes physical manipulation of the body's muscle tissue and bones. Practitioners of osteopathy, known as osteopaths, believe that the body's structure and function are deeply interconnected and that this relationship influences health. They use a variety of techniques, including stretching, massaging, and mobilizing joints, to treat a range of conditions. Osteopathy is based on the principle that the well-being of an individual depends on their bones, muscles, ligaments, and connective tissue functioning smoothly together.

Osteopaths aim to restore the normal function and stability of the joints to help the body heal itself. They are trained to use their hands to diagnose, treat, and prevent health problems by moving, stretching, and massaging a person's muscles and joints. Osteopathy is used for the treatment of pain, physical therapy, and to enhance overall health and well-being.