Question 1

What does an osteopath treat?

Accepted Answer

Osteopaths treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions including back and neck pain, sciatica, joint pain, sports injuries, headaches, frozen shoulder, plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, and posture-related problems. At Fit & Flex, we also treat nerve-related pain such as trapped nerves causing numbness or tingling in the hands and feet, and support post-cancer recovery including Web Axillary Syndrome (cording).

Question 2

How many osteopathy sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

The number of sessions varies depending on your condition, how long you've had it, and your overall health. For acute injuries, many patients see significant improvement within 3–5 sessions. Chronic or complex conditions may require a longer course of treatment. At your initial consultation, Kathy will give you a clear management plan including a realistic timeline.

Question 3

What is the difference between osteopathy and physiotherapy?

Accepted Answer

Both osteopathy and physiotherapy treat musculoskeletal conditions, but with different approaches. Osteopathy takes a whole-body, holistic view — assessing how different body systems interact — and uses hands-on manual techniques including joint mobilisation, soft tissue work, and acupuncture. Physiotherapy tends to focus on specific areas of dysfunction, using targeted exercise rehabilitation, movement re-education, and — in the case of our women's health physiotherapist Jade — specialist pelvic floor assessment and treatment.

Question 4

Is osteopathy covered by private health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes, osteopathy is covered by most major private health insurers in the UK, including WPA, which Fit & Flex is registered with. We recommend checking your policy documents or calling your insurer directly to confirm your level of cover before booking.

Question 5

Where is Fit & Flex Osteopathy located?

Accepted Answer

We are located at 1st Floor, 320 Goldhawk Road, London W6 0XF, inside the Fit & Food Studio. The clinic is a 5-minute walk from Stamford Brook station (District Line), and is served by buses 94, 306, 218, 110, 190, and 267. We see patients from across West London including Chiswick, Hammersmith, Ravenscourt Park, Brook Green, and Shepherd's Bush.

Question 6

Do you offer women's health physiotherapy?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our specialist physiotherapist Jade Rodham offers women's pelvic health physiotherapy, covering prenatal and postnatal care, pelvic organ prolapse, incontinence, peri/post-menopause, pelvic pain, pain with intercourse, vaginismus, and bladder training. Jade is available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at our Goldhawk Road clinic.

Malalignment and Improper Biomechanics as Risk Factors for Overuse Injuries