Osteopathy in the UK (as outlined by the General Osteopathic Council)
Osteopathy in the UK
All osteopaths in the UK have completed rigorous
training. Students of osteopathy follow a four or
five year degree course during which they study courses including;
anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology and
biomechanics. In addition they undergo a minimum
of 1000 hours of clinical training.
Qualification generally takes the form of a
Bachelors degree in Osteopathy - a B.Sc(Hons),
B'Ost or B'OstMed or a Masters degree in Osteopathy (M'Ost).
General Osteopathic Council
The General Osteopathic Council sets the standards of osteopathic education and requires qualified osteopaths to update their training throughout their working lives: a process known as Continuing Professional Development . It is an offence for anyone to call themselves an osteopath if they are not registered.
The General Osteopathic Council also ensures that all osteopaths comply with strict osteopathic practice standards and the profession's Code of Practice. As well as completing the necessary training, osteopaths must also prove themselves to be in good health and of good character and have professional indemnity cover. Further information can be obtained at the GOSc website at www.osteopathy.org.uk.
The British Medical Association's guidance for General Practitioners states that doctors can safely refer patients to osteopaths.
What we do
Osteopathy is a system of diagnosis and treatment which focuses on the structural and mechanical problems of the body. The osteopath is concerned with the musculo-skeletal system and how it is functioning.
Damage is occurring to the body every day though generally it is capable of repairing itself. It is only when the damage is excessive or repetitive or when the repair mechanisms are damaged that treatment is necessary.
