Osteopathy
Osteopathy is a primary care profession, focusing on the diagnosis, management, treatment and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal and other related disorders, and the effects of these conditions on patients’ general health.
Using many of the diagnostic procedures applied in conventional medical assessment, osteopaths seek to restore the optimal functioning of the body, where possible without the use of drugs or surgery.
Osteopathy is based on the principle that the body has the ability to heal, and osteopathic care focuses on strengthening the musculoskeletal systems to treat existing conditions and to prevent illness. Treatment aims to gently restore function using a wide variety of techniques, possibly including massage, mobilisation and manipulation. If appropriate, exercise, ergonomic and lifestyle advice may also be given.
Osteopaths’ patient-centred approach to health and wellbeing means they consider symptoms in the context of the patient’s full medical history, as well as their lifestyle and personal circumstances. This holistic approach ensures that all treatment is tailored to the individual patient.
Our aim is to ensure our patients understand they do not have to suffer in silence. We will work with you to understand the underlying causes of your pain and discomfort and offer personalised treatment plans for recovery.
What symptoms can an osteopath help with?
Osteopathy can treat a vast array of joints and musculoskeletal issues of the body, including:
- Non-traumatic back pain including lumbago and sciatica pain management
- Stress-related musculoskeletal problems
- Neck pain & headaches including migraine prevention
- Muscular strains including minor sports injuries
- Arthritis and rheumatic pain management
- Pregnancy-related musculoskeletal problems
- Fibromyalgia diagnosis and treatment
- Neuralgia treatment
- Postural-related problems including shoulder, hip, knee and/ or ankle pain
- Workstation-related Problems
- Restricted Mobility
What can I expect on my first visit to an osteopath?
At the first consultation, the osteopath will compile a full case history of your symptoms, as well as asking for information about your lifestyle and diet.
The osteopath may also observe you making some simple movements to help them make a diagnosis. With your consent, you will usually be asked to remove some clothing near the area of the body to be examined. Osteopaths are trained to examine areas of the body using a highly-developed sense of touch, known as palpation, to determine conditions and identify the body’s points of weakness or excessive strain. The osteopath will discuss with you the most appropriate treatment plan, estimating the likely number of sessions needed to treat your condition effectively.
If the osteopath thinks that your condition is unlikely to respond to osteopathic treatment, you will be advised about how to seek further care. Osteopaths are skilled in diagnostic techniques and trained to identify
when a patient needs to be referred to a GP or specialist.
What treatments might an osteopathy use?
Osteopathy is a ‘package’ of care that includes massage techniques, skilled mobilising and manipulative techniques, and is reinforced by guidance on posture, diet and often exercises.
Meet Andrew Doody...
Andrew has been the principal osteopath at the Fleet Street Clinic for the past 25 years.
Andrew has a keen interest in anatomy and how the body works, which lead him to become an osteopath. His main focus is to treat the cause of the problem, not just the symptoms, which often means he works closely with GPs and specialists to successfully treat his patients. Due to this approach, Andrew has very loyal patients who continue to see him over many years for ongoing treatment.
Andrew's success lies in his experience and his supportive and friendly nature, making treatment effective as well as informative. The treatment is catered to the individual, taking all aspect of a patient’s lifestyle into consideration.
How long does an osteopathic session last?
An initial consultation typically takes 1 hour.
This appointment is slightly longer than follow up appointments as we need to gather some information from you before treatment can get started, such as medical history and to fully understand your current problems. Once a treatment plan has been outlined, all follow-up sessions are usually 30 minutes and can be as frequent as you require.
Will I need further treatment?
Further treatment may be required and will depend on the reason you are seeking osteopathy treatment.
If there is an underlying health condition which is causing your symptoms this may require regular maintenance for pain management. This may not be the case if your symptoms are a one-off and unlikely to reoccur. This is a conversation you will need to have with the osteopath to understand what personal treatment you require and how frequently it is recommended you visit.
Are you available for home appointments?
Absolutely.
Our osteopath, Andrew Doody regularly provides treatment at the patient’s house. Many patients actually prefer treatment in the comfort and safety of their home over the medical setting at the clinic, especially if they have restricted mobility. If you are interested in booking a home visit for treatment, please email your availability to our reception team at info@fleetstreetclinic.com who will assist you with coordinating your appointment.
Our Patients Speak for Us
Grace G
The travel nurse was lovely and very efficient with giving me vaccines. She even took the time to nurse a wound I had whilst I was there. Really great care.
P Croft
I went for a covid booster vaccination and my experience was excellent. I arrived 10 minutes early for my appointment, the lady doing it (Lucy) immediately swallowed the last of her doughnut and took me through. She put me at my ease by chatting pleasantly while she prepared things, and then the jab itself was so quick and painless – I literally didn’t feel a thing, including her applying the plaster afterwards! It was a first class experience, all in the delightful setting of the quaint shop in historic Fleet Street.
Jouko
I have only had good experiences visiting the Fleet Street Clinic for my vaccinations, and particularly appreciate the flexible, friendly, individualised, swift, efficient and effective service. Thank you all, and see you again soon.
Ken McLean
This is a professional set up, first communications by telephone gave me positive vibes. Clinic is in a great central London location. Nurse doing the 'jabbing' was knowledgeable and slick! I will go back for future vaccinations.
Nicholas Grundy
I recently sought treatment at Fleet Street Clinic for painful ears; I was quickly diagnosed by Dr Hartmann. He prescribed ear drops and arranged an appointment for me a week later with Lucy Mildren. Within a week my ears were better. Everything was very efficient and I was treated with care and skill.
AES
The best in London. I have been coming here for over 20 years. Professional, easy and provide a comprehensive offering. Travel vaccinations, shingles vaccine & most recently covid vaccine.
Daz Smith
Excellent service and support throughout my appointment process. Dr Griffiths was very supportive.
Andrew Ritchie
I had flu and Covid jabs and saw the GP all in one shot. The booking system is online and easy. The premises are old worldly and comforting. The reception staff are efficient. The nurse was experienced and delightful. I had blood tests done. The GP ordered them and the results came back in 24 hours. Very nice GP too.
Tess Kokkinou
I visit twice a week to see Andrew Doody at Fleet Street clinic for my back, he has a great bedside manner, he listens and understands when you tell him about your pain. The staff at reception are amazing too very friendly.
Mark A
My wife and I have attended the Fleet Street Clinic for many years now and found Dr Belinda Griffiths and her team exemplary in all departments. On the back of this I have recommended the clinic to all my family members and Senior Management team.
FAQs
Osteopathy isn’t usually painful during treatment, although it’s not unusual in the first few days following treatment to feel sore or stiff in the treated area, particularly if you’re having treatment for a painful or inflamed injury.
No, you do not need a doctor’s referral to see our osteopath as osteopathy is primary medicine and diagnoses fully. Although we do accept GP referrals. If you require an appointment, you can book online straight away.
Most insurers cover osteopathic treatment but it is best to check first. Andrew is fully covered by all insurers including BUPA.
The title ‘osteopath’ is protected by law, and only those included on the register are entitled to practise as osteopaths. Unregistered practice is a criminal offence in the UK.
To become a Registered Osteopath, you must have completed a course of training (commonly 4 years full time) that is recognised by the General Osteopathic Council. Osteopaths are degree-educated and to remain registered with the GOsC, they are required to complete a set amount of continuing professional development (CPD) in order to keep their knowledge and skills up-to-date.
Our osteopathy, Andrew Doody has an Honours degree in Osteopathic Medicine.
Absolutely, in fact osteopathy is particularly effective for many pregnancy related issues.
