"Osteopaths Must Be Registered With The General Osteopathic Council" |
What is Osteopathy?
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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. |
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Is it New?
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Who Regulates Osteopaths?
The General Osteopathic Council
Tel: 020 7357 6655
www.osteopathy.org.uk
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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.
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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.
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