Everything you need before your visit.

Yes. GPs may refer you to an osteopath when they think it would help. Many people also book directly, without a GP referral.

Yes. The first registration date appears in Practitioner Details on the General Osteopathic Council Register.

The General Osteopathic Council sets standards of training and practice. It is the statutory regulator for osteopaths under the Osteopaths Act 1993.

No need for a GP referral. Should we need to write to your GP, we will always ask you first.

Currently, access to osteopathy on the NHS is limited, but services are becoming more widespread as the benefits are recognised. To find out whether NHS treatment is available in your area, speak to your GP or see the NHS website at nhs.uk.

Many private health insurance policies provide cover for osteopathic treatment. It may be possible to claim for a course of treatment, but check in advance with your insurance company to confirm the available level of cover and whether you will need a referral from your GP or a specialist. Clarissa is registered with BUPA and Maria with WPA.

You can pay by cash or card. We accept credit and debit cards, including American Express.

When you come into the clinic you’ll be asked to complete a general health questionnaire, next of kin details and also to read and sign a consent for treatment form. Please bring a note of any medication you might be on and also any traumas or operations you’ve had in the past. Following this, the osteopath will review your forms with you, taking a full case history, then assess and treat you.

Please note, you may be asked to undress to your underwear. If you do not feel comfortable doing so, please wear clothes you can easily move in to your appointment.

You may bring a chaperone to your appointment.

In general, the first treatment lasts about 45 to 60 minutes and subsequent treatments around 45 minutes. Your first appointment is slightly longer to allow for a full case history.

Absolutely. Our osteopaths are trained to treat people of all ages, including babies. We use gentle techniques, always take a full history first, and will refer you to your GP or health visitor if anything needs medical attention. You are welcome to feed your baby during or after the appointment.

Absolutely. We are a family practice and will do our best to treat you while accommodating your baby’s needs.

Yes. We see lots of pregnant people. Your osteopath will take a full case history and adapt their treatment to make sure you are comfortable throughout.

Osteopathy focuses on the diagnosis, management, treatment and prevention of musculoskeletal and other related disorders, without the use of drugs or surgery. Commonly treated conditions include back and neck pain, postural problems, sporting injuries, muscle and joint deterioration, restricted mobility and occupational ill-health.

Osteopathy is a primary care profession, focusing on the diagnosis, treatment, prevention and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal disorders and the effects of these conditions on patients’ general health. Its patient-centred approach means symptoms are considered in the context of your full medical history, your lifestyle and personal circumstances, so that treatment is tailored to you.

All osteopaths must be registered with the General Osteopathic Council. You can use the Register to check whether your health professional is currently registered, and the date they first registered.

No. The title “osteopath” is protected by law, and only those on the Register are entitled to practise as osteopaths. Unregistered practice is a criminal offence in the UK.

Undergraduate students follow a four or five year degree course combining academic and clinical work. Qualification generally takes the form of a bachelor’s degree in osteopathy (BSc (Hons), BOst or BOstMed) or a master’s degree (MOst). Many osteopaths continue their studies after graduating.

CPD stands for Continuing Professional Development. All osteopaths must complete at least 30 hours a year, which demonstrates to the General Osteopathic Council that they are fit to practise and meet the relevant professional standards.

We take all feedback seriously, and want to know if you are not happy with your treatment. Please get in touch by leaving a message with our reception team on 01580 212293, by emailing complaints@moatosteopaths.com, or by writing to our Practice Manager at The Moat Practice, 12A Station Road, Robertsbridge, East Sussex. We will acknowledge your complaint and aim to respond within 7 days. If you cannot resolve the issue with us, the General Osteopathic Council can advise on its formal complaints procedure.