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A Career in Osteopathy

If you want a job where no day is the same � osteopathy could be for you
Osteopathy is a system of manual preventative medicine, that focuses primarily on the musculo-skeletal system. Osteopaths recognise that dysfunction in body structure and tissues can affect the functioning of the nervous, circulatory, gastro-intestinal and other body systems. This can give rise to a number of symptoms and problems such as back pain, headaches and breathing problems.

Osteopaths consider each person as an individual. With their hands osteopaths identify abnormalities within the human structure and function. They then facilitate the body�s ability to heal itself through gentle stretching and mobilising techniques. With added exercises and health advice, osteopaths help to reduce the symptoms and improve the health and quality of life of the patient.

Hours and Environment:

Most osteopaths are self-employed. An osteopath�s practice can be based at home or at a health centre. Osteopaths have the freedom to develop their own work style, but must dress and act in a professional manner. The working week usually includes regular extra hours and may also involve some evening and weekend work. Career breaks and part-time work are available.

Skills and Interests:

To be an osteopath you should have an interest and ability in science subjects, especially biology and chemistry. Have good observational and listening skills.
Be tactful, reassuring and sympathetic.
Have a clear ability to communicate effectively with individuals from all walks of life. Be physically fit, with good manual dexterity and range of movement.

Entry

To practise in the UK, osteopaths must be registered with the General Osteopathic Council and have completed an accredited degree course.
Degree courses are often four years full-time, however extended pathway options do exist for those who prefer to combine employment with study.
Minimum entry requirements are five GCSEs (A-C) and at least two �A� levels, preferably in science subjects, i.e. Biology and Chemistry. Access courses are offered by some institutions for those without a science background. Alternative qualifications may be accepted. It is essential that you check entry requirements with individual institutions.
Visit an osteopathic educational institution in order to gain a better idea of what�s involved before applying for a degree course.

Career Opportunities:

As an osteopath you have a number of options after qualification including setting up on your own in private practice, working within the NHS or joining a multidisciplinary clinic. There are also opportunities abroad. There are a number of specialist areas such as treating children, professional athletes, industry and/or animals. Research is also an emerging area. Following statutory regulation, there is a steadily growing demand for osteopathy. This is a rewarding primary healthcare profession with growing links with the medical profession.

Annual Income

Depending on whether an osteopath works full-time or part-time, salaries can range from �5,000 to �60,000 a year. Salaries will also be dependent on a number of other factors including geographical location, number of hours worked and the entrepreneurial skills of the osteopath.

Written for Get Smaart by General Osteopathic Council.
For more information please visit www.osteopathy.org.uk Send to a friend