Osteopathy is a primary care profession, focusing on the diagnosis, treatment, prevention and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal disorders, and the effects of these conditions on patients' general health. Using many of the diagnostic procedures applied in conventional medical assessment, osteopaths seek to restore the optimal functioning of the body, where possible without the use of drugs or surgery. Osteopathy is based on the principle that the body has the ability to heal, and osteopathic care focuses on strengthening the musculoskeletal systems to treat existing conditions and to prevent illness. Osteopaths' patient-centred approach to health and well-being means they consider symptoms in the context of the patient's full medical history, as well as their lifestyle and personal circumstances. This holistic approach ensures that all treatment is tailored to the individual patient.
Osteopathy may help with a wide range of musculoskeletal issues, including:
Arthritic pain Joint pain and aches including hip and knee OA (as an adjunct to core Osteoarthritis and exercise).
Undergraduate students follow a four or five-year degree course combining academic and clinical work. Qualification generally takes the form of a bachelor’s degree in osteopathy – a BSc(Hons), BOst or BOstMed – or a masters degree in osteopathy (MOst). Many osteopaths continue their studies after graduating. Osteopaths are required to update their training, skills and knowledge throughout their working lives, through our continuing professional development scheme.
Your first appointment includes:
Due to the nature of the job it is likely that the osteopath needs to examine the parts of your body relevant to your problem. Typically the therapist will ask to remove some clothes in order to see your spine. If you have any modesty issues there will always be alternatives that can be discussed. You do not have to do anything if you don't feel comfortable but you then must understand that the effectiveness of the assessment and treatments could be affected.
We recommend wearing comfortable clothing that allows easy movement. You may be asked to remove certain items of clothing to allow for assessment and treatment, but this will always be discussed with you beforehand.
Most osteopaths work in the private sector, either alone or in a group practice, and some offer services through the NHS. In some areas, doctors are able to refer patients to an osteopath for treatment funded by the NHS. To find out if NHS treatment is available in your area, speak to your GP and/or contact: 1. If you are in England - your local clinical commissioning group. 2. If you are in Scotland - your local health board. 3. If you are in Wales - your local health board. 4. If you are in Northern Ireland - your local health and social service board. There is more information on who to contact in your region on the NHS website.
No, you don’t need a referral. You can book an appointment directly. However, if you're using private health insurance, you may need a referral—please check with your provider.
Some osteopaths do offer home visits as part of their service. You can check the UK Statutory Register of Osteopaths, which is available on this website and provides information about home visits, or ask the osteopath directly.
Yes, osteopathy is generally considered safe for most people. Before starting treatment, we will discuss any potential risks and ensure it’s suitable for you. If you have any concerns, feel free to ask during your consultation.
All osteopaths are expected to have a complaints procedure in place in their practice to address patient concerns. If you have concerns about the competence or the professional conduct of your osteopath, and you have been unable to resolve the issue satisfactorily with the osteopath, or their employer, the General Osteopathic Council will advise on the next steps to take under a formal complaints procedure.
The number of sessions required varies depending on the nature of your issue and your body’s response to treatment. Your osteopath will discuss a recommended treatment plan with you after your first appointment.
Many private health insurance policies cover osteopathy. Please check with your provider to confirm coverage and whether you need a GP referral.
Osteopathy can be suitable for people of all ages, including children and babies. We use gentle techniques tailored to their needs. Please contact us to discuss this further.
Osteopaths in the UK must complete a recognized degree in osteopathy and be registered with the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC), ensuring they meet strict professional standards.
Osteopaths must also hold a public liability insurance in order to practice.
All osteopaths must be registered with the General Osteopathic Council. You can use the Register to check whether your health professional is currently registered.
You can book an appointment by:
The average initial consultation fee is £55 for a 30-minute session and the average fee for subsequent sessions is £48 (Institute of Osteopathy Membership Census 2021) but this varies according to the location and experience of the osteopath.
Typically an osteopathic appointment last between 30 and 45 minutes. Some osteopaths include some extra time for the first appointment as the initial medical consultation might take longer than the consequent appointments.
We kindly ask for at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. Late cancellations or missed appointments may incur a fee.
Our clinic is located at 3 ropemakers row at NR3 2DG. There is free parking spaces and wheel chair access, access to toilet and changing room. If you have any questions or special needs please contact us via call or email (info@osteocareclinic.co.uk) to make sure we are ready to receive you.