DO

BSc (Hons) Ost

MOst

Complementary medicine in Bromley

Complementary treatment methods are getting more and more prominent with each passing day. On this page, we talk about the history behind the rise and establishment of osteopathy.

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Our Osteopaths qualified at the University College of Osteopathy (formerly known as the British School of Osteopathy) or the London School of Osteopathy and are all registered with the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC).  Registration with the GOsC is a legal requirement for Osteopaths.

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origin of Osteopathy

Andrew Taylor Still MD DO (1828–1917) introduced an alternative approach to treating patients, which in order to be truly effective, requires that the body be in harmony. Over the years, he carried out detailed research and developed his theory, which is that all parts of our body must be working in harmony and in synergy to start the process of healing. During this same period, he developed another method that involves using his hands to correct minor areas of misalignment within the body, help restore harmony and thus start recovery in a natural way, without the use of the drugs. This method later came to be known as osteopathy.

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Emergence in Britain

Although Andrew Taylor Still was based in America, his methods and theories had become hugely popular and eventually reached the shores of Britain. Osteopaths trained in America brought their skills to Britain and in 1911 The British Osteopathic Association was formed, soon to be followed by the British School of Osteopathy in 1915. From that period the profession has grown over the years to reach the levels it has reached today.

Public acceptance

Compared with America, it took a long time for osteopathy to become acknowledged in Britain. It took till 1993 for osteopathy to get the recognition it merited (The Osteopaths Act). Soon this led to the establishment of the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC), the administrative body that regulates the standards and practices of the profession to protect the public. The British Osteopathic Association finally merged with two other bodies and continues today as the Institute of Osteopathy (iO) to offer regulatory and association services supporting its osteopathic members.

The osteopaths who have looked after me for many years now at Charles Read have been marvellous. Without their advice and knowledgeable treatment I would have led a much more painful and hampered life. Alison and Tanya have kept me mobile and positive for which I am deeply grateful. I also much appreciate the kindness and efficiency that their support staff always show. I know I am in safe hands all round. (Sue H)

Sue H

Have been using this osteopath for many years, excellent! Have also recommended to family and friends.

Charlotte Newman

Charles Read is an outstanding osteopath, exceptionally skilled in his field and with a wonderful bedside manner. I have recommended Charles to a number of friends all of whom have been complimentary about the treatment they received.

Michael Wright

I have been a regular visit to Charles Read Osteopaths for many years, where my ongoing back problems have been managed very professionally. The service from the greeting at the door to the treatment received is first class and I happily recommend this practice to friends and family.

Mark Haylock

“Three excellent osteopaths with loads of experience and a friendly setting. Easy parking. Friendly family-run practice.”

- SarahR-128

“I highly recommend this team of osteopaths who have treated me for some years. As a retired nurse with a long-standing back problem, I know that without their excellent care and treatment I would be unable to lead the busy and active life I enjoy.”

- Mrs S Ritchie, SRN SCM

“Very friendly, very professional and always fixed any ailments I have. Top quality service at your doorstep. Can’t ask for more.”

- MikeS-308

“After having two hip replacements and some spinal problems I needed pain relief and mobility help. I received this by having regular treatment from Mr Charles Read at his osteopathic practice. He and his two colleagues are dedicated to their work and have given so many people a better quality of life. I would not have kept so active without the help and advice from Mr Read. His receptionists are always helpful and do try to arrange appointments quickly if it is an emergency.”

- Mrs BM

“Charles Read & Associates is the best osteopathic practice I have ever used. Whether for an acute problem, or a regular ‘maintenance’ visit, the treatment is excellent and the osteopaths and staff are understanding, supportive and courteous. I have found out more about how my body works from Charles and his colleagues than I ever have from visiting my GP!”

- Lesley Harmer

“Charles Read is pleased to treat patients who suffer from a chronic condition. He responds with tenacity, creativity and patience to the challenges such patients present. I am just so grateful to the person who recommended him to me.”

- A satisfied patient

“Charles and Alison Read have treated myself and my family for over 20 years now and I cannot recommend the practice highly enough.

They have helped me immensely through back problems caused by a fall as a child and chronic back pain due to high stress. They also treated my very ill mother with care and compassion and have become an integral part of mine and my family’s life.”

- Anya

“I have suffered from a bad back now for many years through various ailments from a neck injury and from having a very stressful job as a teacher. As a result, I have been coming to the practice for many years – it is part of my ‘time’ for looking after myself.

I have been treated by most of the osteopaths on the team and they all offer the same high level of experience, care and well-informed advice about what works for me. As well as treating the symptoms the team has educated me to understand the cause of the symptoms and treated them. This is what makes the difference. Thank you.”

- Tara Parkhouse, Teacher

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