To become an Osteopath, individuals must complete a 4-year full time or 5-year part-time Bachelor’s degree or Master’s degree. This includes at least 1000 hours of clinical experience. Graduates are then required to be registered with the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC). It is illegal for someone to call themselves an Osteopath in the UK without registering with GOsC or attaining this level of education. This promotes a high standard of competency for the profession.

You may be asked to dress down to your underwear during assessments so as your Osteopath can effectively examine your posture. However, you are welcome to wear shorts and close-fitting clothes if you would prefer. A friend or relative can also attend your appointment with you to help you feel more comfortable.

It is not uncommon for individuals to leave their appointment feeling slightly tired, stiff or sore. This is normal and can represent the body responding to the treatment. Once this subsides individuals notice their pain and discomfort have reduced.

At your initial appointment, I will begin by taking a case history. I will ask about your symptoms and general health including any medications or medical investigations you are undergoing. This will help guide my examination. I will begin by examining your posture, muscle tightness, joint mobility and do relevant provocative tests. My observations along with your feedback will then be used to formulate a diagnosis and direction for treatment which I will discuss with you.  

You are always welcome to ask me further questions if you are unsure of any details we discuss.

Osteopathic treatment is suitable for a broad range of individuals including the young, older people, manual workers, office professionals, pregnant women, children and sportspeople. Patients seek treatment for a wide variety of conditions, including back pain, changes to posture in pregnancy, postural problems caused by driving or work strain, the pain of arthritis and minor sports injuries. 

This will depend upon the person being treated, how long the symptoms have been present and any lifestyle factors that may be exacerbating their condition. I will always aim to reduce your pain and restore optimal function in as few treatments as possible. We will discuss and monitor how you are responding to treatment at each appointment to ensure you are feeling better.

Most health insurers cover osteopathy treatments, but it would be a good idea to check with your provider first.

If you have cover, just ask for a receipt at the end of your appointment so you can claim back the appointment fee.

Georgina is covered by AXA Health.