Osteopathy
What is Osteopathy?
Osteopathic practice is a safe and effective approach that aims to promote the health of patients through the use of manual therapy, exercise and health advice. Osteopaths are highly trained healthcare professionals who are experts in the musculoskeletal system and its relationship with other systems in the body.
Osteopaths use a wide range of gentle hands-on techniques that focus on releasing tension, improving mobility and optimising function. This is often used together with exercise and advice, designed to help patients relieve or manage pain, keep active and maintain the best of health.
Osteopathic care is suitable for people of all ages, from babies to the elderly. People from a wide range of backgrounds seek osteopathic treatment, whether elite or recreational sports people, pregnant women, manual workers or office professionals.
How Osteopathy helps you
Our Osteopaths
What our patients say
Having visited Walnut Grove Clinic over several years now for my aches and pains often as a result from my work in the care sector, I have nothing but praise and I appreciation for the team that has looked after me for so many years. Osteopaths Kathryn and Steve Harper and sports rehabilitator and massage therapist Tom Riddell, thank you so much for keeping me going and that I can keep on working. Sciatica, plantar fasciitis, pelvis or shoulder issues... Their treatments and exercise advise worked. So thank you very much team and also the ladies at reception, thank you, for a warm welcome and making sure we get our appointments sorted.
Have consulted with a range of expert practitioners here over the years and without exception the advice and treatment has been excellent. Appointments are usually pretty prompt and the clinic has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere and a can-do culture. So different to a typical NHS medical practice.
Really helping the stiffness in my neck and reducing the ball of scar tissue following brain surgery. Head and neck much more comfortable
Having never been treated by an Osteopath my first experience was excellent at Walnut Grove, very knowledgeable young lady who treated me with care and expertise.
Osteopathy FAQs
What is osteopathy good for?
Back pain, sciatica, neck pain, sports injuries, headaches, problems associated with ageing, muscle and joint conditions, and workplace stresses and strains. Osteopathy is also effective for babies and children.
Will I be encouraged to book a multiple treatment plan?
No, that is not how we work. Every patient is an individual and has their own unique path to recovery. We will try to give you an idea of how many treatments you may need at your first session, but the number required is very variable.
What should I wear for treatment?
It may be necessary for your osteopath to ask you to remove some clothing so they can see the areas causing concern. If you feel uncomfortable, they may suggest shorts and a t-shirt or close-fitting garments instead. Your comfort is always the priority.
What will happen during my first consultation?
Your osteopath will ask about your medical history, lifestyle and symptoms to make an accurate diagnosis. They will then examine the area of concern and explain everything they are doing as they go. Treatment often begins at the first appointment.
Is treatment painful?
Osteopathic treatment is usually very gentle. You may experience some discomfort during and after treatment, but your osteopath will always warn you before using any technique that might be uncomfortable and will stop immediately if asked.
Do I need a GP referral?
No referral is needed. You can book directly with us. If you wish to claim from private health insurance you may need a GP referral, so check your policy first.
Can I claim on my private health insurance?
Osteopathy is covered by most private health insurance policies. Our practitioners are registered with most of the main providers, so getting treated with us is usually straightforward. We’d always recommend checking your policy details with your provider first, just to confirm your specific cover and any excess that may apply.
Osteopathy related articles
Understanding Shoulder and Arm Pain
Is Your Work Setup Damaging Your Health?
Hip Pain