Osteopath
Osteopaths massage, move and stretch clients' muscles and joints to improve wellbeing or help with a health issue.
Day-to-day tasks
As an osteopath you could:
- ask clients about their health and medical history
- look at their posture and how they walk, paying attention to their muscles, bones and joints
- use X-rays to help with your diagnosis and plan a course of treatment
- use gentle techniques like stretching, movement and massage
- give clients advice on exercises to do at home, lifestyle and diet
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- knowledge of medicine and how the body works
- physical skills like movement, coordination and dexterity
- the ability to work well with your hands
- sensitivity and understanding
- to enjoy working with other people
- customer service skills
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- analytical thinking skills
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
Industry Qualifications
To become an osteopath, you'll need to complete a degree or postgraduate master's degree approved by the General Osteopathic Council.
Courses usually take 4 years full time, or you might be able to study part time over 5 years.