Michael Francis

I have been in practice as an osteopath and naturopath for 34 years and am currently working out of clinics in Clapham, Fulham and Kensal Rise. Improving health is a collaboration between myself and the client and I enjoy the experience of meeting and working with all sorts of people. As well as the hands on work it is very rewarding to explore with the client the possible causes of their particular health issues and discover solutions.

I trained at the British College of Osteopathic Medicine graduating in 1991 with a Diploma in Osteopathy and Naturopathy. I am registered with the General Osteopathic Council and the General Council and Register of Naturopaths. In my previous career I was a classical ballet dancer working professionally for ten years with Sadlers Wells (now Birmingham) Royal Ballet. This lead to my interest in osteopathy having experienced the benefits of osteopathic treatment after sustaining a back injury.

I enjoy treating a wide range of clients of all ages from newborn babies to the elderly. I can also treat women in pregnancy. With my background in theatre and dance I also have a particular interest in treating those involved in the performing arts - dancers, singers, actors and musicians.

Depending on the needs of the client I use soft tissue massage and gentle craniosacral work along with more structural work - mobilisation and manipulation - as required. As well as "hands on" work I also work with clients to improve their posture and recommend simple exercises that can be carried out easily in their daily life. If there are recurring issues I will work with the client to discover what are the underlying habits that may be perpetuating the problem. With my naturopathic training I can also advise on the use of hydrotherapy (the therapeutic application of hot and cold water) and diet to improve health.