Greg Foster
Osteopathy and Acupuncture
Greg graduated with a Masters degree from the University College of Osteopathy. He enjoys and has a special interest in structural osteopathy stemming from his background in strength and conditioning. He is also a certified medical acupuncturist (dry needling) and uses this as a standalone treatment, or alongside osteopathy.
Greg was the proud owner of UNIT 22 Northampton, a strength and conditioning gym in Northampton, which he co-founded in 2011. He sold the business in December 2023 to focus on Osteopathy. From his experience of strength and conditioning and exercise rehabilitation, Greg uses osteopathic principles to treat patients as a whole and encourage return to activity as soon as possible. His motto is “movement is medicine”.
Greg initially graduated from the University of Birmingham in 2007, having studied Sport & Exercise Science, which started his career in sport and fitness. He coached rugby at Northampton Saints RFC, working in the community department and with the academy team, before qualifying as a personal trainer, CrossFit coach and British Weightlifting coach, which eventually led to the opportunity of setting up his own gym.
Greg is continually expanding his knowledge and scope of practice and is looking forwards to studying more in paediatrics and visceral osteopathy over the next few years.
When Greg isn’t working, you’ll find him enjoying time with his family, walking his two dogs, or in the gym doing some CrossFit or weightlifting.
What is Osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a healthcare profession focusing on the musculoskeletal system. Osteopaths use manual therapy, health advice, and exercise to treat and prevent various conditions.
Key Principles
Body Unity: All parts are interconnected.
Self-Regulation: The body can heal itself.
Fluid Dynamics: Blood flow is crucial.
Structure & Function: Physical structure impacts function.
Treatments
Manual techniques to improve mobility and relieve tension.
Health information and self-management advice.
Exercise therapy tailored to individual needs.
Regulation
Osteopaths are regulated by the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC) in the UK, requiring continuous professional development.
Conditions Treated
Back, neck, and shoulder pain
Joint and muscle pain
Sports injuries
Tendinitis (e.g., tennis elbow, Achilles tendinitis)
Headaches and migraines
Digestive issues
Chronic conditions (e.g., arthritis)
Initial Appointment
Duration: Up to 1 hour.
Assessment: Case history, physical exam, posture, joint function, and tissue health.
Diagnosis & Treatment Plan: Explanation of diagnosis, treatment techniques, and a plan with goals.
What is Medical Acupuncture?
Medical Acupuncture, also known as Western acupuncture, adapts traditional Chinese techniques using modern anatomical and physiological knowledge. It involves using fine needles to stimulate sensory nerves under the skin and in muscles, triggering the body to produce natural painkillers like serotonin and endorphins.
Conditions Treated
Musculoskeletal pain (e.g., tennis elbow, trigger points)
Headaches (e.g., tension headaches, migraines)
Joint pain (e.g., rheumatoid or osteoarthritis symptoms)
Lower back or neck pain
Fibromyalgia symptoms
Chronic pain syndromes
Initial Acupuncture Appointment
Duration: Up to 1 hour.
Assessment: Case history, physical exam, and discussion of symptoms.
Treatment Plan: Explanation of how acupuncture may benefit you, treatment process, and expected number of sessions. Other techniques may be discussed to enhance results.
Summary
Osteopathy and medical acupuncture offer comprehensive approaches to managing musculoskeletal health and chronic pain. These therapies combine manual techniques, education, and personalised care to improve overall well-being.