Osteopathy is a way of detecting, treating and preventing health problems by moving, stretching and massaging a person's muscles and joints. Osteopathy is based on the principle that the wellbeing of an individual depends on their bones, muscles, ligaments and connective tissue functioning smoothly together. Osteopaths use physical manipulation, stretching and massage with the aim of:

increasing the mobility of joints
relieving muscle tension
reducing pain
enhancing the blood supply to tissues
helping the body to heal
They use a range of techniques, but not medicines or surgery.

In the UK, osteopathy is a health profession regulated by UK law.

Sports massage is a form of deep tissue massage involving the manipulation of soft tissue. It is hypothesised that it can help to relieve pain and tightness, and increase mobility. The structures that categorised into Soft tissue include muscles, skin, tendons, ligaments and fascia. Sports massage aims to correct any imbalances or restrictions that can be caused by repetitive physical activity or every day live. This does not just have to be exercise, it can simply be the repetitive action of everyday life at work, home or both. The use of sports massage before or after exercise has also been perceived to improve performance, prevent injuries and speed up recovery.