"Osteopaths
Must Be Registered With The General Osteopathic
Council" |
What is Osteopathy?
|
|
Osteopathy is a
system of medicine which provides skilled
diagnosis and treatment primarily concerning the
structure and function of the body; the bones,
joints, muscles, ligaments and connective tissues.
It seeks to assist with the wide range of diseases
resulting from disturbances of the body's
framework and moving parts. Since May 2000 it has
been against the law for anyone to use the title
"Osteopath" or practise Osteopathy unless they are
registered with the General Osteopathic Council;
one of the UK’s health and social care regulators.
To be registered, Osteopaths need to have
successfully completed a recognised rigorous
training qualification, such as an Osteopathic
medical degree studied for at least four years. |
|
Is it New? |
Who
Regulates Osteopaths?
The
General Osteopathic Council
Tel: 020 7357 6655
www.osteopathy.org.uk
|
Although
osteopathy has grown in popularity in recent years,
it is almost as old as modern medicine. It began in
the U.S.A. in 1874, and found its way to Britain in
the early part of the 20th century. |
Osteopathy is
considered to be complementary, and not alternative
to conventional medical care. It is classed as
'primary contact', so referral by your doctor is
welcome but not essential. It is always helpful for
your GP to know that you are visiting the clinic. |
Osteopathic treatment is not widely available under
the NHS and the cost of private treatment varies.
Many private health insurance companies cover the
full or partial cost of treatment. It is important
to contact individual insurers for detailed policy
information.
|