What is osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a hands-on, drug-free system of diagnosis and treatment of the whole body. Osteopaths look at the relationship between how well your body could be functioning with how well it is functioning.

This all starts with your osteopath taking a detailed case history. Our osteopaths spend time listening to you, and connecting not just where it hurts with why, but also with you and your context. We then examine you to assess your posture, how you move and function as well as performing clinical tests to clarify our diagnosis.

Once we know why you are in pain, we can determine what we can do to help you move and feel better so that you can get back to a happier, easier life.

Helping you understand what we’ve found, why you’re in pain and what you can do to assist your recovery is an important part of the process too.

Treatment involves focused bodywork using an array of soft tissue and mobilisation techniques to optimise the way you move and the way your whole body works. We can give advice on lifestyle, exercise and workstation set up to facilitate your return to normal as fast as possible.

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What can osteopathy treat?

Osteopathy can be used to treat a wide range of conditions including:

Back pain and neck pain
Sciatica and trapped nerves
Joint pain and arthritis
Muscle and tendon injuries
Plantar fasciitis
Headaches and jaw issues
Sports injuries
Postural problems
Pain experienced during pregnancy or as a result of childbirth

To learn more about our osteopaths, please call reception on 01423 797800 or click here to book online.

How do I prepare for my first appointment?

Please wear loose, comfortable clothing that you would exercise in as your appointment is likely to be an active session, with the osteopath taking you through a range of movements to assess muscle and joint function and possibly take baseline measurements. If you have undergone any imaging, such as X-rays or MRI scans, it is helpful if you are able to bring the radiologist’s reports of these scans. These can be requested from your GP’s surgery if these were carried out by the NHS.

What to expect?

On your first appointment, a detailed medical history will be taken to help us gain a full understanding of your health issues and treatment goals. Your osteopath will then carry out an examination, looking at your posture, mobility, strength and if relevant, other special diagnostic tests such as neurological or cardiovascular assessments. The medical history and examination allow the osteopath to form a diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Management involves an explanation of the diagnosis and a discussion about prognosis. Following this, we usually start with hands-on treatment, advice about lifestyle (such as workstation setup) and rehab exercise prescription. On occasion the osteopath may refer you for further diagnostic tests such as X-rays, MRI scans or blood screens, either through your GP on the NHS or privately.

Will I need to undress in order to have treatment?

We advise you wear loose-fitting clothing, for example clothes you might exercise in. At times you may be asked to momentarily remove items of clothing for the examination, but treatment usually takes place with you fully clothed. Your comfort and modesty is very important to us, so please let us know if you have any concerns.

How many sessions will I need?

The number of sessions will vary, depending on the nature, severity, and longevity of your condition. Our osteopaths will always try and provide an initial estimate, but adjustments may be made based on your progress. Most patients experience improvement within a few sessions, while others might take longer. Consistency with exercises and following the treatment plan is crucial for optimal results.

Will the osteopath provide me with exercises to do at home?

Yes. As part of your treatment plan your osteopath will often prescribe you with some rehab exercises to be done at home, without the need to go to a gym or have access to specialised equipment. These will be sent to you via email (or printed if you prefer), with clear instructions to follow.

Is osteopathy suitable for all ages?

Osteopathy is suitable for individuals of all ages, including children and the elderly.

Can I have osteopathic treatment if I'm pregnant?

Yes, you can safely see an osteopath at any stage of your pregnancy. Osteopaths are trained to work with pregnant women and can provide treatment and advice to help alleviate pain and discomfort and promote overall well-being during pregnancy. Osteopaths routinely support pregnant patients with various issues related to pregnancy, such as back pain, pelvic pain, sciatica and postural changes.

Can I see an osteopath if I have osteoporosis?

Yes, you can. Our osteopaths will take a full case history to understand how best to treat you. Treatment is always tailored to each patient. Treatment for patients with osteoporosis and osteopenia is always gentle, avoiding any high-velocity manipulation.

Osteopaths commonly identify when patients may have undiagnosed osteoporosis or osteopenia and will refer on to the GP so that patients can have the appropriate diagnostic tests and relevant treatment.

What is the difference between osteopathy, physiotherapy and chiropractic?

Chiropractors, physiotherapists and osteopaths must complete a 3 or 4-year degree with clinical training and must be registered with their regulatory bodies. All three professions help people with pain, stiffness and movement problems, but they do so in slightly different ways.

Chiropractors focus primarily on the spine and its effect on the nervous system. They often use specific spinal adjustments or manipulations to improve alignment, reduce nerve irritation and help the body function more effectively.
Physiotherapists aim to restore movement and strength after injury, surgery or illness. Their treatments usually include exercise programmes, stretches, soft tissue work and education to help prevent problems from recurring.
Osteopaths take a whole-body approach, considering how the bones, muscles and joints work together and how this affects circulation and overall health. Treatment often involves gentle joint and soft tissue techniques, stretching, and advice on posture and lifestyle to support balance and long-term wellbeing.

Is osteopathy safe?

Osteopathy is a very safe treatment modality. There are some occasional, moderate side-effects following treatment including fatigue, short-term discomfort or stiffness. Serious complications are extremely rare, with a study published in the British Medical Journal estimating serious complications such as muscles weakness and nerve damage being less than 1 in 1,000,000 following neck manipulation. A separate medical review reported that spinal manipulation was safer than non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (i.e. ibuprofen, naproxen and Nurofen). This is reflected in the low cost of professional indemnity insurance for osteopaths.

Is osteopathy painful?

Our osteopaths aim to provide a comfortable treatment. At times, there may be some mild discomfort during certain parts of the treatment or a short-term ache after treatment. Our osteopaths will always communicate with you to ensure your comfort and safety. If you have any concerns, we advise you to contact us for advice.

Is osteopathy covered by health insurance?

We are registered with all health insurance companies (including Aviva, AXA Health, Simply Health, WPA and Vitality), except BUPA, to provide osteopathy for their members. It's important to check with your insurance provider to understand what is covered by your policy and if any referrals are required.

Is there research to support osteopathy?

There is a building body of evidence supporting the work that osteopaths do. This is reflected in NICE guidelines including osteopathy, and NHS Musculoskeletal Guidelines referring regularly to osteopaths.

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 275 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Ryan Dhinsa 
 8 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dan at the Castle clinic treated me for osteopath due to lower back nerve pain. I saw Dan on a weekly basis for 5-6 weeks and it didn't take him long to find the source of the issue. My lower back pain was actually caused by a pelvic bone enpingment, meaning part of my bone was not properly supported by muscle and caused the bone to grow to fill the missing muscle gap. This causes a high amount of pain on my groin and hip flexor that I have had for over 20 years and untreated caused nerve pain in my lower back. Dan did various assessments and stretches and advised that I carry on doing pilates type exercises to strengthen the pelvic and hip muscles. He is very knowledgeable and good at what he does. I am very grateful.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Michael Rogowski 
 8 June 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I first visited Castle Clinic Osteopaths as a result of experiencing left hip soreness, together with aches and pains in my left leg and a sporadic limp! The Clinic diagnosed severe osteoarthritis and immediately sent a  letter to my GP recommending onward referral to an orthopaedic consultant. Following the referral to my local hospital I was immediately put on a waiting list for a left hip replacement. Whilst waiting for the operation I have found regular visits to the Clinic very beneficial in helping to minimise pain and the rate of deterioration in my mobility whist ensuring body alignment of other joints (e.g. knees and neck) and that they remain pain free and undamaged. I can't speak highly enough of the professionalism, understanding and support I have received and have no hesitation in recommending Seb Contreras and his team at the Clinic.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Sarah McAteer 
 4 June 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dan is an absolute super star!! I had back pain and went to Dan as I had tried everything to get rid of the pain. Dan took the time and explain what was going on with my back and after a few sessions with Dan no more back pain!! Dan is professional and made me feel at ease right away. The reception made me feel welcome and she was very friendly. The environment is spotless clean and good parking around the clinic. Excellent service and thank you Dan!!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Sally Plain 
 13 May 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I see different practitioners, physio and osteopathy, both have been fabulous, you feel in very safe and knowlegable hands, i couldn't recommend this practice enough.. Thank you!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Lucy Jackson 
 7 May 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I visited Castle Clinic after suffering from very painful hip and lower back pain during my pregnancy. I was booked in to see one of their Osteopaths, Daniel Ortega Bowen, and I couldn't have asked for a better result. I had experienced weeks of increasing pain, but after a couple of sessions with Daniel, the pain had dramatically eased. I was able to walk much better and further, and get much needed sleep. The difference has been amazing. Daniel was very approachable, understanding and knowledgable about what I was going through, and he helped me understand what the problem was. I can't recommend Daniel enough in terms of the treatment and in terms of his professionalism and expertise. Thank you!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Tony 
 6 May 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had injured my back - not quite sure how but DIY related and was in agony and could hardly walk - nothing available at the GP for 3 weeks !!!! So I had to take matters in my own hands —- Seb treated my daughter successfully when she was pregnant and had a back injury so I decided to give Castle Clinic a try —- on explanation to the receptionist I was offered a next day appointment.  My wife had to drive me there as I couldn’t walk - I WALKED HOME AFTER TREATMENT - BRILLIANT —- my appointment involved a detailed analysis by Seb followed by some manipulation and massage etc - Seb provided me with a clear understandable explanation of my issue —- I have had several follow up sessions to continue to improve my movement AND ITS WORKING — the treatment and care I’ve received is excellent and I have established a great personal working relationship with Seb —- the care / access / treatment is excellent and at what I consider a fair economical price —- THIS IS WELL WORTH ATTENDING  AND THE TREATMENT AND CARE HAS BEEN SUPERB  —- CASTLE CLUNIC
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Erin Humphrey 
 23 April 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have just completed my Shockwave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis with Seb Contreras at Castle Clinic. I have been suffering with this condition for just over a year and was in a lot of pain. My consultant Mr Mark Farndon at The Duchy hospital recommended a course of Shockwave Therapy to alleviate my pain and treat this horrible condition. Seb is so knowledgeable, understanding and compassionate and has been at hand to explain the treatment plan at every stage. I am so grateful to him for carrying out my treatment in such a kind and professional way. I honestly feel like I have got my life back and can enjoy everyday activities again! I have just returned from a week in Italy and managed to sightsee and enjoy time away without pain. This simply wouldn't have been possible without the Shockwave Therapy treatment! Thank you so much for everything you and the team have done!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   JEREMY FOULDS MUSIC 
 18 April 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dan was excellent; thoroughly professional. He explained things clearly both in terms of the nature of the problem and also the exercises I needed to do to remedy the issue. Very satisfied.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Jessica Lee 
 15 April 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a great experience with Seb! The atmosphere was warm and welcoming and he took the time to really listen to my concerns and assess my overall health before beginning any treatment. The session itself was thorough and the aftercare advice was really helpful for maintaining progress at home. I would highly recommend to anyone looking for effective, holistic care!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Maggie Ward 
 30 March 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I went to see Seb  as my back had seized up at the end of December after lifting a heavy bag without thinking about what I was doing. 🙄 I had hip and lower back pain and could hardly walk… Seb diagnosed hip bursitis - he used gentle massage and realignment as well as giving me two simple exercises to do at home.  Things started improving straight away, and on my second visit I was feeling much better. By my third visit my back felt fine  - I’m very impressed! Seb is very experienced and knowledgable but took time to listen carefully to my symptoms and concerns. I would recommend him without hesitation.