Why choose an osteopath?

Osteopaths treat more than just back problems. Today’s osteopaths also diagnose and treat a wide range of musculoskeletal disorders.

Osteopaths commonly treat:

● Back, neck and shoulder problems
● Joint, posture and muscle problems
● Leg pain and sciatica
● Sports injuries


What is osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a statutorily regulated primary health care profession concerned with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mechanical disorders of the body and the effects of these disorders on the function of the body and general health.

Osteopathy recognizes the importance of the link between the structure of the human body and the way it functions. Osteopaths focus on the body’s skeleton, joint mobility and on the underlying muscles, soft tissue and internal organs.

Osteopaths consider each person as an individual. Utilising their highly developed sense of touch, they identify problem areas of the body. Using gentle stretching and mobilising techniques as well as manipulating joints, they work with the body to create the perfect conditions to facilitate the healing process.

What happens on my first appointment?
You will be seen by a fully qualified and registered osteopath.

Your first session will last for about 30–45 minutes. Your osteopath needs to know about your health, past and present and you will be asked detailed questions about your complaint, medical history, general health and any medication you may be taking.

The osteopath will carry out a careful physical examination sometimes incorporating medical equipment to help with the diagnosis.

Your osteopath will normally ask you to remove some of your clothing and perform a simple series of movements.

If you choose, you may have a friend or relative present during the appointment.

The osteopath will use touch to identify points of weakness or excessive strain in your body. You will usually be treated lying on a treatment couch.

Osteopaths usually start any treatment by releasing and relaxing muscles and stretching stiff joints, using gentle massage techniques, rhythmic joint movements and muscle release techniques. They may also carry out spinal manipulations. These are short, quick movements to joints in order to help restore normal joint function and mobility.

Your osteopath may show you exercises to do at home and suggest ways you can improve your posture.

The number of treatments needed depends on your condition. If you have chronic low back pain for example, you may need several treatments. For acute pain, one or two treatments may be enough.

Following treatment, patients can experience a number of responses from feeling pleasantly tired or elated to being a little stiff and sore for a couple of days but feeling better in themselves. Feel free to talk to your osteopath if you have any concerns.

Is osteopathy safe / regulated?
The title "osteopath" became protected by law from 9 May 2000. As a result it is a criminal offence, liable to prosecution, to describe oneself as an osteopath in the UK unless registered with the GOsC. The GOsC regulates the profession of osteopathy, maintaining a Statutory Register of those entitled to practice osteopathy. Only practitioners meeting the high standards of safety and competency are eligible to join this register. Proof of good health, good character and professional indemnity insurance cover is also a requirement.

What qualifications do osteopaths have?
Osteopaths undertake a four to five-year honours degree programme underpinned by thorough clinical training and have to be registered with the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC).