Anyone practicing as an osteopath is required by law to be registered with the General Osteopathic Council (G.Os.C), which was established by The Osteopaths Act, passed in 1993. Osteopaths must also be insured, to protect both the public and themselves. Extensive training and ethical behaviour are required in order to be registered by the GOs.C.

No, but it can help to alleviate the symptoms associated with these common problems. There are several techniques aimed at improving function and reducing the pain and discomfort of the muscles, ligaments and joints. Osteopaths can also give advice on how to self-manage these problems, for example with exercises.

As such, the idea of putting something back in place is a misconception. Spinal joints out of place would be a serious injury and would certainly mean hospitalisation rather than a visit to an osteopath. In fact, joints become restricted and limited within their normal function. Another commonly referred-to misnomer is spinal "discs being put back in". Disc injuries can be treated osteopathically, but again treatment is applied to help the tissues return to a more normal healthy state.

Many patients are referred by their doctor, but it is not necessary to visit them first. If there is any reason for the osteopath to contact your doctor, your permission will be obtained.

Manipulation is not inherently painful. Some discomfort will occasionally be experienced when an injury is treated, even with gentle soft tissue techniques. The osteopath will be sensitive to your symptoms and not proceed with a technique if there is undue discomfort. It is wrong to assume that you will always have manipulation whenever you go to an osteopath. Many successful treatments can be conducted without its use. All good osteopaths keep the patient informed as to what they are doing as the treatment progresses.

You may experience some tiredness or soreness for a few days afterwards, but this will subside quickly. Significant side effects are very rare. Osteopathy is a very safe and effective form of treatment and most patients feel significantly better for it.

This of course depends on the problem, and the osteopath will advise you on your first visit. With a new injury involving acute symptoms, early assessment treatment and advice can speed recovery. With a long-standing problem, patterns of stiffness and pain can be established and it can take more treatment and time to effect a good change. Your rate of recovery will also depend upon several other factors including your age, general health, sensitivity to treatment and activities in your life.

Once again, this depends entirely upon the problem and your osteopath will advise you on the need for exercises and possible maintenance treatment.

In order to carry out the examination, you may be asked to remove some of your clothing (leaving underwear on of course). Also, you may wish to bring some shorts and a tee shirt or vest top.