Frequently Asked Questions
What is Osteopathy?
The General Osteopathic Council (GOsC) state Osteopathy is the following:
“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-centered 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.” (GOsC, 2015)
What is the difference between an Osteopath and a Chiropractor?
The major difference between an Osteopath and a chiropractor is that while the Chiropractor is primarily focused on the spine and joints, an Osteopath is also concerned with the rest of the body.
Does treatment hurt?
Osteopaths work very hard to try and minimise the amount of pain that treatment causes, but on occasions some discomfort does occur. When there is a risk of this, you will be informed in advance of the treatment and advice will be given to you about how to minimise it.
Do I need to see the GP to come and see an Osteopath?
No – you can book to see an Osteopath with no referral necessary from your GP or other healthcare professionals. Osteopathy in this area is not currently funded by the NHS however, so you will be required to pay for treatment. Please see our Book an Appointment page for details of Costs.
What should I wear?
It may be necessary to ask you to remove some clothing, so that we can see and touch the areas of the body causing concern. If you are uncomfortable undressing to your underwear we suggest clothing, such as shorts and T Shirt, or close fitting garments
Can I bring someone with me?
Absolutely. You are welcome to bring another person to accompany you whilst you are treated. If you are under the age of 16, you will need to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Acupuncture - do I have to have it?
No, Jim and Georgia use Acupuncture as one of a number of treatment methods to assist in treating patients; however if you are not happy to have this done, please just let us know!
What is Low Level Laser?
Low Level Laser, sometimes known as Cold Therapy Laser, is the use of certain frequencies of Laser Light to stimulate and improve the cellular mechanisms that heal damaged tissue. We sometimes use this in support of Osteopathic treatments to help reduce pain and in place of the Acupuncture techniques that he uses on Humans. If you’d like to read more about it, visit the website of the manufacturers of his equipment, Omega Laser.
What is RAMP?
RAMP is the Register of Animal Musculo-skeletal Practioner’s Members of this Register are committed to ensuring the highest standards of care in the treatment of Animals and Owners can be confident that members of this register are those who have been trained to University level in their specific disciplines. For more information, visit the RAMP website and check Jim’s listing on their Register.
Why choose an Osteopath over a Chiropractor, Physio or “Back man”?
Osteopathy looks at all the parts of what may be making an animal suffer; which can include poor rider biomechanics, social & physical environment, training and that’s before we even lay our hands on them! An Osteopath can only call themselves one after they have completed a full time degree and are registered with the General Osteopathic Council – meaning that you can be assured of the highest levels of care for your animal.
When will I need a Vets consent to have my animal treated?
In November 2020, the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons issued the following guidance to all vets across the country: Musculoskeletal maintenance care for a healthy animal… does not require delegation by a veterinary surgeon .An animal declared healthy by the owner, in cases where care is given to maintain good health and optimise competition performance, can be seen without specific Veterinary referral with the caveats stated. This covers the areas of Maintenance care and Competition care” As a consequence of this statement, permission to treat animals will only be sought where there is a known injury or disease that is related to the reason I have been asked to treat the animal. If permission is required, you will be sent a link to forward to your vet for them to complete the permission online.