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About Backs & Bones

At About Backs & Bones we work as a team enabling you to benefit from the most effective treatment for you. There are no ego’s here: if another therapist is better equipped to treat your specific problem or we would like a second opinion, we refer, with your consent. This means a speedier recovery and a holistic approach from specialists all qualified in their areas of expertise

Our experience

Collectively, as well as our professional registrations, our medical experience in nursing, midwifery, McTimoney technique, occupational and mental health, lower limb biomechanics and health screening ensures a high standard of care; far above that required by our professional regulators. It also means we can treat a wide variety of people – from babies and children right through toolder adults.

About Backs & Bones

helping you be the best you can be

About Physiotherapy

What is the difference between a physiotherapist, an osteopath and a chiropractor?

This is an interesting question and one which could be debated forever! Paula trained as a chiropractor then swapped course to become an osteopath and has worked and trained with physiotherapists and has had this discussion many times… Broadly speaking, physio’s are trained for many hospital in-patient conditions and may choose, as Kasia has, to specialise in ‘MSK’ (musculoskeletal) disorders. Osteopaths and chiropractors are more similar to each other and are trained purely in ‘MSK’ . The treatment differ in that we use different techniques to manipulate and some osteopaths will also use massage in their treatment more than chiropractors generally do. However osteopaths, chiropractors and physiotherapists all attend each others post-grad courses so the overlap between us all blurs. Basically we can all treat you- just find someone you like…preferably at About Backs & Bones!!

let’s meet our

Fully Qualified Osteopaths

Paula

Paula started her working life as nurse, specialising in male surgical nursing and then trained as a midwife, qualifying from Guy and St Thomas’ hospitals and working at University College Hospital in London. After moving back to the Midlands, settling in Derby and having a family of her own, she began training to become a chiropractor and after 4 years went on to train as an osteopath. Her final dissertation was looking at the pain experienced at work which she finds particularly interesting.

Since qualifying Paula has undertaken a course in cranial osteopathy which she use alongside structural osteopathy as needed. She has also completed the British Medical Acupuncture Society course, further broadening her skills and she has also built on her midwifery knowledge by attending several courses in osteopathy, physiotherapy and chiropractic specifically for pregnant women and their babies. She has also assisted in teaching at the London School of Osteopathy when her work schedule allows and has also delivered Manual Handling and Health and Safety presentations to health professionals.

Paula attracts a wide range of patients, from pregnant women, babies and children, to sports people, especially horse-riders and those with work strain. Elderly people also often have regular treatment to remain more mobile and supple, as well as those simply looking to improve their health and keep well.

Paula’s working life has always consisted of professional roles: therefore she has good experience and understanding of working alongside GP’s, dentists, midwives and health visitors, sports coaches and podiatrists, whilst maintaining confidentiality. She has a strong professional ethos underlying all of her work but at the same time, the sessions are relaxed and friendly which promotes good communication.

Andy

Like many in this profession Andy was introduced to osteopathy as a patient following a back injury many years ago. Inspired by the results of this drug-free yet highly beneficial form of medicine he first trained as a massage therapist. Ultimately, he gave up a long and successful career in the offshore Oil & Gas Exploration industry and embarked on 4 years of full-time study in osteopathy at the British College of Osteopathic Medicine (BCOM) in London (formerly the British College of Naturopathy and Osteopathy). Training at BCOM not only teaches osteopathy but also stresses the important roles of nutrition and psychology.

As well as more traditional osteopathic techniques, Andy also practices cranial osteopathy and electrotherapy.Electrotherapy techniques typically consist of ultrasound and interferential, both of which are effective treatments and complement osteopathic techniques. Although suitable in treating a wide various conditions in all people, electrotherapy is especially effective and commonly used in treating acute sports injuries (such as an ankle, achilles or knee sprains).

As a primary healthcare practitioner it is Andy’s goal to manage your health concerns in the most effective manner possible. He is registered with the General Osteopathic Council and a member of the British Osteopathic Association. His professional qualifications are as follows: Bachelor of Osteopathic Medicine; Diploma of Osteopathy; and Naturopathy Diploma.

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Iain

With a deep passion for human movement and well-being, Iain is a dedicated osteopath who specializes in biomechanics and sports massage. With a holistic approach to health, Iain integrates principles of osteopathy with extensive knowledge in biomechanics to provide personalized care that enhances physical performance and promotes long-term wellness.

Iain holds a Bachelor of Osteopathy BOST) degree and a degree in sports science and has certifications in sports massage and personal training. This unique blend of skills allows Iain to not only treat musculoskeletal issues but also to design tailored exercise programs that help clients achieve optimal movement patterns and prevent injury.

As an advocate for proactive health management, Iain enjoys working with athletes and active individuals, helping them recover from injuries and improve their performance through a combination of manual therapy, corrective exercises, and strength conditioning. Whether it’s resolving chronic pain, improving posture, or enhancing athletic performance, Iain is committed to empowering clients with the tools and knowledge they need to achieve their health and fitness goals.

In addition to clinical practice, Iain is passionate about educating others on the importance of movement quality, biomechanics and injury prevention. When not in the clinic, Iain enjoys staying active through hiking, yoga, strength training and continually exploring new ways to optimize human movement and performance.

let’s meet our

Fully Qualified Physiotherapist

Kasia

Kasia is a qualified Registered Physiotherapist (HCPC Reg) with 9 years experience in treating sports injuries, neck, shoulder and back pain, different types of joint issues, soft tissues injuries and musculoskeletal disorders. In her practice she uses a combination of soft tissue therapy, mobilisations and exercises to maximise the effectiveness of treatment.  She is also experienced in treating general complaints such as degenerative diseases and postural issues.

As well as treating sports injuries and providing functional training, she is qualified to rehab pre and post-operatively: all too often there is disappointment after surgical procedures and sometimes this is due to lack of rehabilitation. Kasia, as a physiotherapist, is trained to provide pre and post operative training to maximise the effectiveness of surgery.

Please do not confuse an appointment with an NHS physio with that of a private consultation -they are worlds apart and Kasia will treat you- not just give you exercises, even though we know they are beneficial!

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let’s meet our

Fully Qualified Massage Therapists

As well as being an experienced qualified Sports Massage Therapist, Nina is also a Personal Trainer and has combined these skills to maximise effective rehabilitation. She started her therapy career under the guidance of Great Britain Rugby League Physiotherapist, Keith Warner, at the Hull Sports Medicine Centre where she gained valuable experience in treating and rehabilitating professional sports men and women as well as those suffering from occupational work stress, age related stiffness and pain and specific medical conditions. As well as more traditional sports massage techniques, Nina also has experience in taping and strapping and electrotherapy. Electrotherapy techniques typically consist of ultrasound and interferential, both of which are effective treatments and complement osteopathic and massage techniques. Taping and strapping can be particularly useful in aiding sportspeople to continue training whilst protecting an injury whilst it is healing. Nina is a member of the Federation of Holistic Therapists.

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Nina

Nao is a VTCT level 4 qualified sports massage therapist and a member of The Federation of Holistic Therapists.  Her personal interests of trail running, off road biking and polefit enable her to understand injuries and create a suitable rehabilitation plan. She treats not only sports people but clients with postural discomfort, work related stress and pain using a range of techniques to improve soft tissue health and joint movement. Nao has a warm, friendly approach which helps put any client at ease.  Her background is in the care sector supporting adults with mental health and learning difficulties. This makes her very conscientious of a persons individual needs and communicating in a way that suits the client. She advocates the use of a chaperone to enable anyone to access treatment who may require extra support.

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Nao

David is an ITEC Level 3 Sports Massage Therapist and also holds a 2:1 degree in Applied Sports Science. After receiving sport massage treatments as a client for many years he is keen to use his knowledge and passion for sports and exercise to help others to continue with or even return to the activities they love. After spending many hours in cars and on flights as an auditor, David is also aware of the positive impact sports massage can have on relieving back and shoulder pain caused by long daily commutes and working hours.

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David

VTCT qualified reflexologist and massage therapist and a member of the Federation of Holistic Therapists. After working in a fast-paced, corporate environment for 14 years she took the exciting opportunity to retrain as a complementary therapist and has become very passionate about helping people to reach optimal health and wellbeing. Stress can manifest itself as physical, emotional or spiritual discord, especially in today’s world of social media and digital burnout where we struggle to stop and listen to the warning signs our bodies send us. By taking time out to regularly maintain our bodies, we become less prone to stress and illness.

Jayne offers reflexology, a deep relaxing treatment to help balance the mind, body and spirit. Reflexology is an ancient therapy which incorporates the stimulation of pressure points within the feet, encouraging them to rebalance corresponding body systems and organs which enables them to function more efficiently. Reflexology may help to revitalise the body so that the natural, internal healing mechanisms are able to do their work.

Jayne also offers therapeutic massage to include Swedish, trigger point and lymphatic drainage techniques. Massage is a great way to stimulate the cardiovascular system bringing fresh blood and nutrients to tired muscles, the lymphatic system is invigorated, flushing away toxins and the nervous system is energised, releasing endorphins and generating an immediate sense of wellbeing. The treatments can be easily adapted to give additional attention to specific issues or to avoid overly sensitive areas. 

Indian head massage is also available and is a relaxing treatment which encourages deeper breathing and a lower heart rate. It is though to be effective in relieving neck and shoulder stiffness, eye strain, headaches and insomnia.

Hopi Ear Candling is also practised by Jayne- it is a lovely, non-invasive treatment which creates the perfect conditions for the body to rid itself of excess mucus and toxins in the ear, sinuses and nose; resulting in a balance of pressure and reduction of symptoms. The treatment includes a relaxing lymphatic drainage facial and scalp massage.

Whichever treatment you choose you can be sure you will leave feeling relaxed and revitalised.

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Jayne

When physical therapy isn’t quite enough…

We help people with severe pain and ongoing arthritic conditions and they manage their lives well with our support. But sometimes a little extra help is needed and if appropriate, that’s when we turn to medical help. Sandy is a qualified doctor who specialises in musculoskeletal health and performs steroid injections guided by ultrasound. Many studies have shown this to be more accurate resulting in a better outcome: ie less pain. It is suitable for many joints throughout the body – once physical rehabilitation has been implemented. After the injection, you may feel so much better that you take no further action: but this is your window to building a good muscle balance to support the joint,- when you are not feeling in pain- and therefore making the money you have spent on the injection worthwhile as a longer-lasting effect is more likely (steroid injections cannot be repeated too often as they can weaken the ligaments in the joint). Hyaluronic acid injections are also an option, especially in an arthritic joint and the first consultation will ascertain which treatment, is any is suitable.

This first consultation is over the phone- which saves you money and a physical assessment is performed when you attend for the injection. If it is deemed not to be affective for you, then just the consultation fee is charged.

Charges: Consultation fee £150, plus steroid injection: add £100, or for hyaluronic injection add an addition £50 to the injection fee. This is regardless of which joint is treated and compares favourably with other ultrasound-guided injection procedures.

let’s meet our

Fully Qualified Counsellors

Attitudes toward mental health struggles are changing at last… Eventually it may be universally acknowledged that you are indeed a strong person to recognise and seek to improve your life though some sometimes challenging work.  However, we do appreciate that there are people who struggle with embarrassment at seeing a counsellor: so to help maintain confidentiality, rather than say which practitioner you are here to see, please feel welcome to write down the name of your counsellor and hand it to our receptionist, who is bound by the same codes of confidentiality as all our practitioners are. This is in response to some feedback we have received and only applies to those who want to maintain total anonymity. Let’s look forward to the day when we all feel proud to broadcast that we are living life to the full through knowing ourselves through and through and empowering us to respond effectively to those less fortunate!!

Paul

Paul is a friendly, approachable, competent person who you will feel safe to talk to and not be judged. You will feel glad you have picked up the phone to take that first step towards developing yourself as a person and working through any issues in a therapeutic way. You have nothing to lose by calling and deciding if this is the way forward for you.
Paul is a qualified Counsellor and a member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy). This ensures that he works to the standards required as an independent practitioner and and adhere to it’s ethical framework.www.bacp.co.uk.
He is also qualified to Level 4 Diploma Therapeutic Counselling. Person-centred integrated with CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) and has a level 5 Diploma in Creative Therapeutic Interventions which further enhances his skill base. This is after training for 5 years in Counselling Skills Theory and Practice.

As well as Pauls private practice, he works in the voluntary sector, working with bereavement and has attained the Foundation Certificate in Bereavement Care.

To contact Paul call: 07816 749312 or email pgould1975@sky.com or go to his website for more information: paulgouldcounselling.co.uk

Anne

Anne is a BACP Accredited Counsellor and EMDR therapist.

Sometimes life can feel very overwhelming and difficult to deal with on your own. Anne’s aim is to work together with you to discover why you feel the way you do and to support you in exploring choices.

Often a difficult time in our lives can bring with it the possibility for growth and development, it can be a chance to become more who we truly are.  Anne works with you in a caring, confidential and non-judgemental way to look at the issues that bring you to counselling.

Anne has over 10 years’ experience working both with NHS and private clients. She is trained in EMDR therapy which treats traumatic experiences without the need to relive them. Anne works with adults and teenagers. She works with all issues and in particular has extensive experience in working with adult survivors of abuse, with eating disorders, bereavement, anxiety and depression.

To contact Anne call 07999 577620

To contact Paul call: 07816 749312 or email pgould1975@sky.com or go to his website for more information: paulgouldcounselling.co.uk

Catherine

Catherine is an integrative, nature-oriented psychotherapist. She offers a warm, compassionate space to explore life’s challenges, whether you’re navigating grief, anxiety, illness, or simply feeling overwhelmed by our fractured world.

With 25 years of experience supporting people through life’s complexities, Catherine works with adults in a relational, holistic, nature and trauma-informed way and has a deep respect for each person’s unique story.

Together, you can explore thoughts, feelings, or bodily experience—gently exploring relationships and connections both within you and with the wider world.

Catherine welcomes you just as you are, and together you can explore what matters most, at your pace, in your way.

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Fully Qualified Kinesiologist

Diane

Diane became a Naturopathic Kinesiologist after experiencing the treatment for herself; it helped her feel so well after having had health problems. A naturopathic kinesiologist uses the kinesiology muscle testing with the principles of naturopathic treatment to promote good health.

With a background in science and, having experienced the profound health effects, Diane feels she is ideally placed to treat effectively, and to communicate the principles of treatment to the client.

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Fully Qualified Acupuncturist

Paul

Paul is a Licenced Acupuncturist & Member of the British Acupuncture Council (MBAcC).and attained a BSc (Hons) in Acupuncture.

University study comprised in excess of 3600 hours of combined Academic & Practical study over three years, incorporating Traditional Chinese Medicine with Western Biomedical Sciences including Anatomy & Physiology,

Paul has extensive post graduate Continued Professional Development with Si Yuan Balance Method Acupuncture, acquiring the in-depth theories of analytical, precise, effective stimulation of a minimal amount of distal points, thereby avoiding aggravation of the localised regions of pain.

Paul is certified in Auricular Acupuncture and has training in the VAS, Musculoskeletal Protocols, Scars, Psycho-Emotional Disorders & PTSD.

Acupuncture is a safe and effective option to long term opioid based pharmaceuticals with scientific research supporting acupuncture for chronic neck, back, shoulder & knee pain (Yin et al, 2017). In excess of 50 NHS publications recommend acupuncture for osteoarthritis (Birch et al, 2018). More than 80 NHS publications have recommended Acupuncture for tension headaches & migraines (BAcC, 2018).

Private Health Insurers may offer some form of cover for acupuncture treatment. Every company and policy is different, please check with your healthcare provider and policy.

For further information on any of the therapies

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