Who is it suitable for?
Our treatments suit all ages and abilities; from children to the elderly, and from sports men/women to pregnant mothers. Patients under 16 years old must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Will it work?
We can help with many common physical complaints, however, if after diagnosis we cannot help we will not offer treatment. You will not be charged for this appointment. Instead, we may refer you for further investigation or back to your GP.
Is it safe?
Yes. All our practitioners are fully qualified and registered. We always explain any risks of treatment before the treatment starts. During the treatment we always work with each patient to ensure their safety and comfort at all times.
Can I use my private medical insurance?
The majority of insurance companies now cover osteopathic treatment. We are registered with most private healthcare insurance providers including AXA PPP, Pruhealth, Aviva. We are no longer registered with BUPA. You will need to check with your insurance provider to confirm the available level of cover, and whether you require GP referral. More information about this can be found here.
How do I know which therapy will suit me?
Please call us. Our reception staff are not clinically trained and so cannot direct your treatment, but they will always get one of the practitioners to call you back to discuss your condition and who best to see. Please note that we cannot diagnose over the phone. We also offer free screening so that you can come and discuss your case with the appropriate practitioner before deciding whether or not to have treatment.
What's the difference between an Osteopath, Chiropractor and a Physiotherapist?
The main differences stem from a difference in philosophy about the causes of disease when the disciplines were founded in the 19th century. Back then, Osteopaths were known as "bone setters". Today, all three disciplines agree on a modern scientific model of disease, but the principles of structure of the body remain central to Osteopathic and Chiropractic practice.
There are some differences in treatment approaches. In general (and in our opinion) we find that Osteopaths tend to use soft tissue techniques followed by joint manipulations. Chiropractors tend to focus on joint manipulation, therefore their treatments are shorter. Physiotherapists tend to use more machines (e.g. ultrasound) and exercise prescription.
What's the difference between Osteopathy and Cranial Osteopathy?
Cranial osteopathy describes a group of osteopathic techniques which use very small movements. They were first described about a century ago when they were demonstrated on the head, but since then our understanding of these techniques has expanded so that they can be used on any part of the body, but the name "cranial" has stuck.
In practice both traditional and cranial techniques aim to optimise movement in the body, but with a slightly different focus: Traditional osteopathic techniques tend to focus on gross joint movements and the muscles producing the movement, so these treatments involve bigger movements and slightly more vigorous pressure. Cranial osteopathic techniques tend to focus on subtle movements and tensions within the tissues, so these treatments involve gentle pressure and fine movements.
What's the difference between Medical Acupuncture and Chinese Acupuncture?
Traditional Chinese Acupuncture uses specific points to redirect the flow of life energy(called chi) through the body via a series of energy pathways (called meridians); producing systemic effects.
Conversely, Medical Acupuncture uses points in anatomical structures, and trigger points (tender points) within these structures; producing more local effects. In practice this means that its scope is generally limited to pain relief and to relaxing tight muscles.
What's the difference between Podiatry and Chiropody?
The terms Podiatry and Chiropody are synonymous. Chiro is Greek for "done by hand", Pod is Greek for "foot" and – iatry is Greek for "treatment". The specialities within Podiatry/Chiropody are also the same.
What's the difference between the psychotherapies EMDR, CBT and Stress Management?
The different psychotherapies that we offer will be adapted for your particular problem. In general EMDR is a non- talking psychotherapy which uses light and eye movements to desensitise the brain to pain and traumatic memories. CBT is a short course of talking therapy aimed at changing your behaviour to a particular feeling such as pain or trauma. Stress management may combine these two therapies with practical techniques of reducing stress.
Your practitioner will discuss with you which psychotherapy is appropriate for you and your particular problem.
Can I donate blood after acupuncture?
Yes. As from the 15th February 2010 certificates are NO LONGER REQUIRED. If the treatment was performed by an acupuncturist who is a member of the certain councils then you can donate. The General Osteopathic Council (GOsC) is one of these councils and all our Acupuncturists are members of the GOsC. More information about this can be found here, and look up "Acupuncture".