What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathic practice is a safe and effective form of prevention, diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of health issues. Osteopaths are highly trained healthcare professionals who are experts in the musculoskeletal system (joints, muscles and associated tissues) and its relationship to other systems of the body, to keep you as healthy as you can be. Osteopaths see people of all ages from babies to the elderly and everyone in between, including pregnant women and elite athletes. You do not need to consult your GP before you visit an osteopath, although you may wish to do so.

The osteopathic profession is regulated by the General Osteopathic Council and by law, an osteopath must be registered with the Council to practise. To remain registered, they must comply with strict regulatory requirements and high standards of professional practice. They must also maintain regular professional development. These requirements give patients the same sort of guarantees and protection as those given by doctors and dentists. Osteopaths are trained to degree level attaining either a Bachelor of Science (BSc) or integrated Masters (MOst). Training takes a minimum of four years and includes a requirement to have over 1000 hours of clinical experience with patients prior to registration. Osteopaths are recognised by NHS England as Allied Health Professionals, playing a critical role in the diagnosis, treatment and care of people of all ages.

At The Mindful Osteopath, we are members of the Institute of Osteopathy, the professional membership organisation for osteopaths, committed to the support and development of the osteopathic profession. Membership of the Institute of Osteopathy affords assurances to the public, patients and colleagues, that we provide the highest quality service and care. For more information on the Institute of Osteopathy, visit www.iOsteopathy.org or call 01582 488455.