Website: NHS England » The 14 allied health professions
NHS and private treatment - General Osteopathic Council (osteopathy.org.uk)
What does an Osteopath do?
Osteopaths take a holistic view of the structure and function of the body to diagnose and treat a wide variety of medical conditions. Their work is centered on the principle that the skeleton, muscles, ligaments and connective tissues of an individual need to function smoothly together so as to maintain wellbeing.
Osteopaths use a number of non-invasive treatments such as touch, physical manipulation, stretching and massage to restore bodily equilibrium through increasing the mobility of joints, relieving muscle tension, enhancing blood and nerve supply to tissues, and encouraging an individual’s own healing mechanisms.
Where does an Osteopath work?
- Most osteopaths work in the private sector, either alone or in a group practice
- Some offer services through the NHS.
How to become an Osteopath?
Work experience
If you are interested in a career as an Osteopath and want to try some work experience you can contact your local NHS Trust, voluntary or private organisations and they may be able to facilitate experience for you.
University route
University courses to study Osteopathy are either:
- Undergraduate- takes around 4 years full time to complete depending on the university chosen
- Masters- takes around 4 years full time to complete depending on the university chosen
You can find a full list of universities offering Osteopathy courses here: Training courses - General Osteopathic Council (osteopathy.org.uk)
Apprenticeship route
There is not currently a route to become an Osteopath through an apprenticeship.
How to become an Osteopath Assistant/Support Worker?
Osteopath assistants/support workers positions are advertised locally through recruiting organisations-you will need to look at your local organisations vacancies in order to become an assistant/support worker, you could call them or look at their website.
