Lichfield OsteopathyClare McClure BSc (Hons), osteopath
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What is osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a form of manual medicine. It looks at how the structure of the body (the skeleton, joints, muscles, nerves and connective tissue) affects the way it works, and uses hands-on treatment to help it work better.

How osteopaths work

An osteopath starts with careful questions and a physical examination to find out where your pain is coming from. The sore spot is not always the source. A knee can hurt because of a stiff hip; a shoulder can hurt because of the neck.

Treatment then uses a range of hands-on techniques to ease pain, loosen stiff joints and relax tight muscles, followed by advice and exercise so the improvement lasts.

A regulated profession

Osteopathy is regulated by law in the UK. “Osteopath” is a protected title, and only people registered with the General Osteopathic Council can use it. Registered osteopaths train to degree level over four or five years, keep their skills up to date every year and are insured.

Clare is registered with the General Osteopathic Council (number 4991) and is a member of the Institute of Osteopathy (101470) and the Academy of Physical Medicine.

Clare’s approach

Clare works with soft tissue, articulation, mobilisation and stretching. Her treatment is practical and physical, and she is keen on exercise because it speeds recovery and builds strength. For some people one or two sessions are enough. For others it is a longer process that includes changes at work and at home. Either way, she will explain the plan and the reasons for it.

If your symptoms suggest something that osteopathy is not right for, she will refer you to your GP or the appropriate specialist.

Techniques Clare uses

  • Soft tissue work

    Massage and stretching of tight or tender muscles, tendons and ligaments to ease pain and spasm.

  • Articulation

    Moving a stiff joint gently and rhythmically through its range to loosen it.

  • Mobilisation

    More specific movement of individual joints in the spine and limbs to restore normal motion.

  • Exercise and advice

    Stretches and strength work for home, plus practical advice on posture, work and sleep.

Questions about osteopathy

What is osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a regulated healthcare profession that assesses and treats problems with the muscles, joints, ligaments and nerves. Osteopaths use their hands to diagnose and treat, alongside exercise and advice.
Is osteopathy regulated in the UK?
Yes. Osteopathy is regulated by law, like medicine and dentistry. Every osteopath must be registered with the General Osteopathic Council, complete continuing professional development each year and carry insurance.
What techniques does Clare use?
Clare uses soft tissue massage, articulation (moving a joint through its range), mobilisation and stretching, and prescribes exercises to rebuild strength.

Book an appointment

Call, text or WhatsApp Clare. If she is with a patient, leave a message and she will call you back.

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