Both are manual therapies that work alongside other forms of medicine to help treat musculoskeletal conditions. Both involve manipulation of soft tissue and joints, and can be used to treat many types of back or neck pain, whether long term or recent, as well as pain in other parts of the body. Either can be helpful for those recovering from injury or from orthopaedic surgery.

Physiotherapists and Osteopaths all undergo four-five years’ full-time training. Physiotherapy has become a respected profession, practiced independently of hospital settings. Osteopathy has shaken off its “wacky” image to become a fully state -regulated profession in the UK. The techniques used by individual practitioners can vary enormously from subtle holding cranial techniques to High Velocity Thrusts. (Do not be alarmed by myths about bone crunching: our Osteopaths only perform manipulations with the patient’s consent, and use very precise and controlled techniques.)

Osteopaths and Physiotherapists are all specialists at diagnosing musculoskeletal problems: sports injuries, nerve and joint pain. They are skilled at spotting the contraindications of treatment, and knowing when to refer a patient on elsewhere. They also offer exercise and lifestyle advice.

Common conditions that can be helped include Repetitive Strain Injury, sports injuries, back and neck pain, rehabilitation from orthopaedic surgery, whiplash. Osteopaths don’t just treat backs! They work with all the soft tissues and joints of the body.

We select the best applicants for their clinical excellence. Our Osteopaths and Physiotherapists work together to pool expertise and offer clients a multidisciplinary approach. They all undergo in-house training to develop their skills. All of our Osteopaths have postgraduate training in Medical Acupuncture / Acupressure, which is offered as a part of an Osteopathy session, or as a stand-alone treatment (See separate page on Medical Acupuncture). Most of our Osteopaths are trained in electrotherapy techniques such as ultrasound, which can be particularly helpful with ligament and tendon injuries. We also have specialists in sports injuries, as well as Pilates and personal training. We have a large network of top medical consultants to refer on to when appropriate.