Frequently asked questions

Osteopathy has one of the best safety records of any medically related profession. Osteopaths are trained to recognize any condition for which their treatment may not be recommended, and referral to another medical professional is made whenever needed. Different techniques are chosen according to the needs of each individual patient, and safety is always the primeconsideration. The Osteopaths Act (1993) created a regulatory and governing structure similar to those in place for doctors and dentists.

No referral is needed to book an appointment with us. However, many GPs trust and recommend our clinic to their patients.

Yes, the majority of insurance companies now cover osteopathy. It is best to check with your insurers first, as individual policies may have exemptions.

If you go to a physiotherapist with a knee problem, the physiotherapy will treat the knee and surrounding tissues. They may use various pieces of equipment, soft tissue technique and provide an exercise routine. They are often the first line of approach as treatment is available on the NHS. If you go to an Osteopath with a knee problem, as well as looking at the local area, the osteopath will look at the structural mechanics throughout the body to understand how and why the knee problem has arisen. You may find that the oteopath treats your neck to de-stress the knee, producing a resolution in other longer-term problems.

Both therapies have a similar root. In 1895, Mr D. Palmer in severe distress, came for treatment in the School of Osteopathy in Kirksville, Missouri. He stayed in one of the student houses over the winter and was treated there. He was so impressed by his progress that he stayed on to study Osteopathy. In 1896 he went home and started his own school of Chiropractic. However, he disagreed with some of A.T. Still’s theories on the principles behind how oteopathy worked. Still believed that a disturbance in motion between parts of the spine or elsewhere in the body caused congestion and disturbed blood supply to nerves and local structures, and that this was the precursor of disease. Palmer believed that displacement of the spine and segments leading to nerve entrapment was the root of all disease. In the different theories lie the different approaches. In Chiropractic, thrusts are used to put vertebrae back into place. In Osteopathy, more gentle movements are used to render motion to an area.

Yes we do. Where appropriate, we issue Off Work Certificates as provided by the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC). These are accepted by employers and the DSS for benefit purposes.

Yes, but we do this only in response to a written request from the solicitor or insurance company. An appropriate report fee will be charged for this work.

Acupuncture is generally painless. Most people experience mild sensations like tingling, warmth, or gentle pressure, ensuring a comfortable experience.

Cosmetic acupuncture uses ultra-fine needles to target facial areas with fine lines, stimulating collagen production and boosting blood flow. This helps reduce wrinkles and rejuvenate your skin.

In general, acupuncture is safe when performed by a certified acupuncturist.

Mesotherapy uses microinjections of vitamins, minerals, and medicines into the skin's middle layer. It's designed to address concerns like cellulite, weight loss, anti-aging, and localized fat deposits.

Injections are given every 2-3 weeks. Most treatments require multiple sessions, and a full treatment course might take up to 10 treatments. The treatment is long lasting and the results measurable. When the desired effects are achieved, all that is required is general maintenance. Dieting and exercise are strongly encouraged to maintain one's results over the long term.

There is some discomfort. You will feel as if the clinician is pinching you. The discomfort is minor and most patient have the treatment without topical anesthetics.

After your session, you may feel some temporary discomfort in the treated areas, which typically eases within a few days. Rest assured, our treatments have no long-term adverse effects.