The Harrison Clinic

HEALTH INSURANCE PATIENTS - PLEASE READ

If your are intending to book an appointment covered by your health insurance company you will need your full policy details including;

Membership number - Authorisation code - Excess amount payable - The amount of sessions authorised - The condition the code has been provided for eg. back pain, knee pain - Who you are authorised to see eg. osteopath, physiotherapist - Your policy renewal date -

We need this information BEFORE you attend a health Insurance appointment. You will be sent an intake form to provide us with this information as soon as your have booked an appointment for the appropriate Insurance company on our booking system.

If you do not fill out this form before you attend your appointment will be switched to a standard private appointment where fee’s are payable at the appointment.

If you can no access these details, we suggest you book a standard private appointment.

Thank you so much.

Osteopathy & Cranial Osteopathy

Osteopathy is a system of diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of medical conditions. It works with the structure and function of the body and is based on the principle that the physical well-being of an individual depends on the skeleton, muscles, ligaments and connective tissues functioning smoothly together. Treatment is direct and results are usually experienced quickly. Osteopath'... Read More

Osteopathy is a system of diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of medical conditions. It works with the structure and function of the body and is based on the principle that the physical well-being of an individual depends on the skeleton, muscles, ligaments and connective tissues functioning smoothly together. Treatment is direct and results are usually experienced quickly.

Osteopath's work with the structure and function of the body to restore a state of equilibrium and balance. Osteopaths use manipulation, stretching and soft tissue mobilisation to increase joint range of motion and stability, to relieve muscle tension, to enhance the blood supply and stimulate nerve function. They also provide advice on posture and prescribe rehabilitation programs to aid recovery, promote health and prevent symptoms recurring.

Cranial osteopathy is a natural approach to healthcare for all life’s stages. It recognises the importance of the subtle mechanics at work in the head and their profound influence on the health of the whole body.

The treatment is very gentle and effective, making this technique suitable for particularly sensitive patients. Cranial osteopathy is available for all adults at The Harrison Clinic.


Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is a evidence based profession and takes a ‘whole person’ approach to health and wellbeing, which includes the patient’s general lifestyle. At the core is the patient’s involvement in their own care, through education, awareness, empowerment and participation in their treatment. and rehabilitation. Physiotherapy can benefit people at all life stages. Physiotherapists commonl... Read More

Physiotherapy is a evidence based profession and takes a ‘whole person’ approach to health and wellbeing, which includes the patient’s general lifestyle.

At the core is the patient’s involvement in their own care, through education, awareness, empowerment and participation in their treatment. and rehabilitation.

Physiotherapy can benefit people at all life stages. Physiotherapists commonly work with back pain, joint pain and soft tissue injuries. Physio's can help with acute injuries, manage the physical aspects of long-term medical condition such as asthma as well as help women preparing for childbirth. Physio's are also excellent in helping sports people recover from injury, stay injury free and perform to their maximum.

Pilates is an excellent form of exercise for any age group and for all your exercise needs. Whether you are recovering from an injury, you want to increase your flexibility and strength or you want to better your technique at other sports by using your body more efficiently Pilates can help you. It also helps to prevent injury, and helps to tone your body, or recondition your body after pregnancy.

At the Harrison Clinic we are now offering one to one Pilates lessons with a qualified Physiotherapist with special interest in Pilates and Qualified in APPI Pilates (Australian Physiotherapist in Pilates Institute). With a one to one Pilates session you can ensure that you are doing exercises that are correct for you, suitable to your own specific needs. With individual care and attention you can be sure that you are performing the exercises correctly, which will lead to you seeing improvements more quickly.

It is important to build a good technique from the beginning, then allowing you to progress with ease and confidence in to the higher level exercises. It is a form of exercise that starts with engaging the core muscles, these include the transversus abdominus, pelvic floor and diaphragm muscles and then build on this core contraction to add in resistance and load to strengthen the core and condition the body.


Pilates

Pilates is an excellent form of exercise for any age group and for all your exercise needs. Whether you are recovering from an injury, you want to increase your flexibility and strength or you want to better your technique at other sports by using your body more efficiently Pilates can help you. It also helps to prevent injury, and helps to tone your body, or recondition your body after pregnan... Read More

Pilates is an excellent form of exercise for any age group and for all your exercise needs. Whether you are recovering from an injury, you want to increase your flexibility and strength or you want to better your technique at other sports by using your body more efficiently Pilates can help you. It also helps to prevent injury, and helps to tone your body, or recondition your body after pregnancy.

At the Harrison Clinic we are offering one to one Pilates lessons with a qualified Physiotherapist with special interest in Pilates and Qualified in APPI Pilates (Australian Physiotherapist in Pilates Institute). With a one to one Pilates session you can ensure that you are doing exercises that are correct for you, suitable to your own specific needs. With individual care and attention you can be sure that you are performing the exercises correctly, which will lead to you seeing improvements more quickly.

It is important to build a good technique from the beginning, then allowing you to progress with ease and confidence in to the higher level exercises. It is a form of exercise that starts with engaging the core muscles, these include the transversus abdominus, pelvic floor and diaphragm muscles and then build on this core contraction to add in resistance and load to strengthen the core and condition the body.


Sports Massage / Soft Tissue

Sports massage & soft tissue therapy is focused upon both consultation and treatment. A thorough understanding of anatomy and physiology means that the source of pain can be pin pointed and then treated with the appropriate massage therapy. In the sports world it is used proactively to prevent injury. Sports massage & soft tissue therapy combines general and deep tissue manipulation with var... Read More

Sports massage & soft tissue therapy is focused upon both consultation and treatment. A thorough understanding of anatomy and physiology means that the source of pain can be pin pointed and then treated with the appropriate massage therapy. In the sports world it is used proactively to prevent injury.

Sports massage & soft tissue therapy combines general and deep tissue manipulation with various forms of stretching techniques to improve muscle health and performance. The treatment is direct and results are experienced quite quickly.

The treatment of sports injuries is the area most people naturally associate with remedial massage but it is also used very successfully in the treatment of a broad range of conditions. Patients of all ages with a wide variety of problems benefit from sports massage.


Womens Health

Women go through various significant physical changes during their lifetime and at the Harrison Clinic we believe passionately about giving women the opportunity and the confidence to prioritise their own physical health. If you are “putting up with” issues such as leaking, prolapse, pain, feeling weak or disconnected from your core, feeling as though you are losing flexibility or strength ... Read More

Women go through various significant physical changes during their lifetime and at the Harrison Clinic we believe passionately about giving women the opportunity and the confidence to prioritise their own physical health.

If you are “putting up with” issues such as leaking, prolapse, pain, feeling weak or disconnected from your core, feeling as though you are losing flexibility or strength as you age, or have recently recovered from abdominal surgery there are many things which the Harrison Clinic can support you with.

During a women’s health appointment, you will be given the opportunity to discuss your personal symptoms and medical history, ask questions, have any relevant assessments performed that relate to your symptoms, and to develop a plan together with your practitioner to address your concerns.

This appointment type is suitable for:
Pelvic Floor issues such as leaking, prolapse, pelvic pain, painful sex
Menopause specific physical conditioning - addressing your own physical needs and goals which could be related to pain, flexibility, strength, balance, posture and fitness

The approach to each session will vary for everyone, but you can expect it to be a bespoke mix of hands-on manual therapy, exercises and homework between sessions to maximise the benefits of each treatment.

Private patents only - please be aware that this will not be be covered by your health Insurance policy.


Diastasis Recti Rehabilitation

Diastasis Recti is the medical term for a “wider than before” gap between the left and right sides of the abdominal muscle wall. It can happen for many reasons, but it is mostly associated with pregnancy. As the baby grows and the connective tissue down the midline of the body thins and widens, each side of the rectus abdominis (“six-pack”) muscles separate further away. After pregnancy and wit... Read More

Diastasis Recti is the medical term for a “wider than before” gap between the left and right sides of the abdominal muscle wall. It can happen for many reasons, but it is mostly associated with pregnancy. As the baby grows and the connective tissue down the midline of the body thins and widens, each side of the rectus abdominis (“six-pack”) muscles separate further away. After pregnancy and with time, the gap reduces once more; but some people need a little help for the area to heal and strengthen fully again.

Strengthening the midline is important because any weakness in this area will reduce the overall effective strength of your core, breathing pattern and pelvic floor, and can be the cause of back pain, leaking, and doming or coning of the abdominal muscles during exercise.

An initial DR appointment lasts 85 minutes and will include a full New Mummy Assessment. This is a postnatal assessment covering pelvic floor engagement, breathing analysis and connecting your breath with your movement, a full diastasis check, muscular imbalance assessment, and an overall wellbeing and lifestyle assessment to check how you are really doing.

The session will also involve soft tissue work to release any areas of tension which may be pulling the abdominals away from your midline, such as a C-section or other abdominal scar, tight abdominal muscles used to gripping from pregnancy, and any other areas of the body feeling tight or asymmetrical. We will also work on breathing patterns, and you may need further hands on work around the ribcage and diaphragm.

Finally, we will create a bespoke set of exercises to do confidently and safely at home each day before your next appointment. These will combine strengthening exercises with pelvic floor and breathing work to reconnect your core to its fullest. You can expect to spend 5 mins a day on your homework, which may not seem like much but the regular challenge to your abdominal muscles will encourage the body to create more collagen and lay down connective tissue across your gap to strengthen it over time.

3-6 sessions are recommended for healing and recovery, but this can vary between individuals. Each follow up session will last 55 mins and we advise leaving sessions 2-4 weeks apart to allow for healing time in between. Reassessment will be completed at each follow up session to check on progress.

Private patents only - please be aware that this will not be be covered by your health Insurance policy.


C-Section and Hysterectomy Recovery

Scars can be uncomfortable, tight, numb or painful, and massage is a wonderful tool for relieving both the physical symptoms of the scar and the appearance of it. Scar therapy massage is a combined treatment of massage and other soft tissue release techniques that are used to reduce areas of tension, rigidity and adhesion that build up around and under your C-section, hysterectomy or any oth... Read More

Scars can be uncomfortable, tight, numb or painful, and massage is a wonderful tool for relieving both the physical symptoms of the scar and the appearance of it.

Scar therapy massage is a combined treatment of massage and other soft tissue release techniques that are used to reduce areas of tension, rigidity and adhesion that build up around and under your C-section, hysterectomy or any other abdominal scarring. Improving these will allow your body to move with more fluidity and suppleness and remove the feeling of being stuck or restricted in your movement.

An initial Scar Work appointment lasts 85 minutes and will include a full New Mummy or Women’s Wellness Assessment. This assessment covers pelvic floor engagement, breathing analysis and connecting your breath with your movement, a full diastasis check, muscular imbalance assessment, and an overall wellbeing and lifestyle assessment to check how you are really doing.

During the appointment we will also work on correcting your breathing pattern, reconnecting your core with your breathing and correcting your pelvic floor function. You’ll be taught techniques to work on your scar at home in between follow up appointments.

3-6 sessions are recommended for healing and recovery, but this can vary between individuals. Each follow up session will last 55 mins and we advise leaving sessions 2-4 weeks apart to allow for healing time in between. Reassessment will be completed at each follow up session to check on progress.

Note that your scar must be fully healed before hands on work can be done, so please allow 8 weeks post op before booking. If you have had an infection, it may take a little longer to heal before you can come, so please don’t rush.

It doesn’t matter if your surgery was 20 years ago, scars can be improved however long they have been there! Please give the clinic a call and ask to speak to Gemma if you have any questions before booking.

Private patents only - please be aware that this will not be be covered by your health Insurance policy.


Pelvic Floor Health

Women can very commonly experience changes in the function of their pelvic floor both after the stresses and strains of pregnancy and childbirth, and as we approach menopause due to the changing levels of hormones in our bodies. This can manifest itself in many issues such as stress and urge incontinence (leaking of pee or poo), prolapse, discomfort or pain. It is commonly thought that these is... Read More

Women can very commonly experience changes in the function of their pelvic floor both after the stresses and strains of pregnancy and childbirth, and as we approach menopause due to the changing levels of hormones in our bodies. This can manifest itself in many issues such as stress and urge incontinence (leaking of pee or poo), prolapse, discomfort or pain. It is commonly thought that these issues must be due to weak or damaged muscles but often the pelvic floor muscles can be overly tight, as well as the surrounding areas of the body which connect into the pelvic floor such as the inner thighs, hamstrings and hip flexors.

Any amount of leakage, pain or discomfort is not normal and in many cases symptoms can be reversed or at least significantly improved without the need for invasive techniques such as surgery.

A Women’s Health Appointment can be tailored to address your pelvic floor symptoms and will involve a combination of (external) hands on manual therapy if required, exercise, stretching, breathing and postural work. You will be given homework to complete regularly in between your follow up sessions, and it is important that you are fully committed to this to achieve results.

A course of 6-8 sessions is recommended with 1-2 weeks between appointments to see the best progress, although individuals always vary. You can always call and ask to speak to a practitioner if you are unsure about whether this could help you.

Private patents only - please be aware that this will not be be covered by your health Insurance policy.


New Mummy Assessment

Congratulations! In the whirlwind of having a new baby it is very easy to ignore the aches and pains your body is going through. You may be wondering what is normal, what is not, and all the time probably prioritising your little one over your own needs. Our new mummy assessments put your health first so that you can understand where your postnatal body is currently at, so you can be in the ... Read More

Congratulations! In the whirlwind of having a new baby it is very easy to ignore the aches and pains your body is going through. You may be wondering what is normal, what is not, and all the time probably prioritising your little one over your own needs.

Our new mummy assessments put your health first so that you can understand where your postnatal body is currently at, so you can be in the best position to look after your little one. We will look at your pelvic floor engagement, breathing and how well you connect your breath with movement. We’ll also complete a diastasis check, look at your body for muscle strength, weakness and any areas of pain, as well as your overall wellbeing.

You’ll be given advice on postnatal recovery options suitable for you if you need them, and support or signposting for further help if required.

Private patents only - please be aware that this will not be be covered by your health Insurance policy.

Nathan obtained his M Ost degree in osteopathy from Swansea university and also has further qualifications in instrument assisted soft tissue (IASTM), Kinesiology taping and combined Sports & rigid taping.

Alongside his studies Nathan has worked in care helping children with a wide range of complex needs giving him a greater understanding of the importance of individuals having the right support for their needs in any context and reinforcing his desire to help others receive the right care. As part of his studies Nathan has undertaken extensive research centred around the Autonomic nervous system with the goal of developing new approaches in reducing pain and treating bodily dysfunction, this research has provided the base of his treatment approach.

Throughout his studies Nathan has worked as a student osteopath in multiple clinics focussing on pregnancy, sports injuries, chronic pain and general complaints.

Outside of studies Nathan has a background in multiple sports competing in combined Mixed martial arts including Wrestling, Brazilian Jiu jitsu and Thai boxing.

Nathan obtained his M Ost degree in osteopathy from Swansea university and also has further quali... Read More

Anna graduated from The University College of Osteopathy with a Masters Degree in Osteopathy. Anna has further qualifications in sports massage and dry needling.

During her studies, Anna developed an interest in the psychological aspects of pain and the impact this has on patients. Anna also has a special interest in recovery time and scope within both general and sports related injuries. She creates a comfortable environment for her patients, whilst developing realistic rehabilitation programmes and providing patient specific goals alongside hand-on treatment. This is a prominent feature of Anna’s practice.

Outside of work Anna has a sporting background in both gymnastics and cheerleading at a world championship level. This has allowed Anna to understand the impact that sports has on athletes from novice to elite level, and the importance of strength and flexibility.

Anna graduated from The University College of Osteopathy with a Masters Degree in Osteopathy. Ann... Read More

Jane trained at the British School of Osteopathy, London, and graduated in 1997. She has worked at busy practices in Middlesex, Hampshire and Sussex, gaining valuable experience working alongside other osteopaths.

Jane’s treatment approach is structural, with a particular interest in understanding the underlying cause of pain and it’s long term prevention by addressing posture and lifestyle.

As with all osteopaths, Jane enjoys developing her knowledge by attending regular training days and seminars which is now a necessary requirement of the General Osteopathic Council.

Jane trained at the British School of Osteopathy, London, and graduated in 1997. She has worked a... Read More

Peter holds a Master’s degree in Physiotherapy and has a wealth of experience working with musculoskeletal complaints and sports rehabilitation including back and neck pain, peripheral joint complaints and general aches and pains.

He is currently combining his private clinics with his NHS work where he is part of a multidisciplinary team who deal with a multitude of musculoskeletal conditions and presentations. Peter has experience working with elite athletes being physiotherapist to Polish national Canoe team at the World Championships in 2019.

He uses a variety of techniques heavily basing his approach on manual therapy and personalised exercise prescription in order to address the body in a holistic manner.

Outside of work Peter was once a Parkour athlete and starred in an international commercial and various shows. Nowadays his approach to training and keeping fit is slightly more conservative focusing on weightlifting and long-distance running.

Peter holds a Master’s degree in Physiotherapy and has a wealth of experience working with muscul... Read More

Callum attended the British School of Osteopathy, London where he graduated with a Masters degree in Osteopathy. He is registered with the General Osteopathic Council and is a member of the Institute of Osteopathy.

Callum has gained experience in several clinics, treating a broad range of patients from the very sedentary to elite athletes. He has post graduate training in medical acupuncture and sports taping.

Callum thoroughly enjoys all aspects of his work and has a particular interest in sports injuries and chronic neck and back pain.

Callum has a background in multiple sports, including rugby and athletics. He holds particular interests in strength training and in practising yoga.

Callum attended the British School of Osteopathy, London where he graduated with a Masters degree... Read More

Amy graduated from Swansea University with a first class Masters Degree in Osteopathy. Her training involved treating patients of all age groups with diverse conditions including arthritic pain, chronic pain and acute sports injuries. During her studies, Amy became interested in understanding how chronic pain conditions affect multiple systems of the body and mind. She uses this knowledge to assess a client’s general health as well as their chief complaint and can provide information about implementing lifestyle changes to help improve pain and quality of life. Amy also work’s with patients by identifying their health goals and moving them towards them. Outside of work Amy is a keen football player meaning she understands the importance of being able to participate in activities you enjoy.

Amy graduated from Swansea University with a first class Masters Degree in Osteopathy. Her train... Read More

Phil holds a Level 5 Diploma in Clinical Sport and Remedial Massage from the Cambridge School of Sports Massage.

Outside of work Phil is a competitive ballroom dancer having won numerous World, European and National Championships over the last fifteen years. Phil continues to compete representing England in all major international ballroom competitions.

He has a wealth of experience working with clients who are struggling with pain, muscle tightness/tension and reduced function. Phil has a very hands-on approach using a broad spectrum of techniques. These range from deep and effective sports massage techniques to more gentle massage and soft tissue care including; soft tissue release, muscle energy techniques, neuromuscular tension method and myofascial release. He will also provide rehabilitation when needed to enhance your recovery.

Phil has worked with many elite dance professionals, as well as sports men and women of all ages. His aim is to provide his clients with optimal soft tissue function, enhance posture and make sure clients have good strength and flexibility to help avoid future injury or poor function.

Phil is excellent at assessing posture and providing permanent solutions to correct imbalances.

Phil holds a Level 5 Diploma in Clinical Sport and Remedial Massage from the Cambridge School of ... Read More

Mala holds a degree in Physiotherapy and has over 20 years of experience working in the NHS and private sector.

Mala has gained knowledge and skills by working in different core areas of physiotherapy such as trauma and orthopaedics, respiratory, neuro, MSK outpatients and women’s health independently managing a clinical caseload.

Mala has wide and varied experience in different areas of physiotherapy. The skills she has developed in areas such as mental health, care of the elderly, acute medical, amputee and stroke rehabilitation, MSK outpatients, women’s health are directly transferable to any setting and provide a strong basis for skills such as holistic patient lead and patient centerer approach.

Mala has developed competent physiotherapy skills, which enable her to identify adverse clinical signs and make rapid decisions regarding a patient’s care and manage appropriate treatment.

Mala has had the opportunity to work within a multi-disciplinary team. She has special interest in the field of MSK physiotherapy, women’s health and orthopaedics.

Mala enjoys trekking and likes to connect with nature when she is not at work.

Mala holds a degree in Physiotherapy and has over 20 years of experience working in the NHS and p... Read More

Gemma completed her Diploma in Clinical Sport and Remedial Massage at the Oxford School of Sports Massage in 2016.

She has a wealth of experience working with clients who are struggling with pain and tension, or who need help with rehabilitation from soft tissue injuries. Gemma has previously worked with the Oxford University Lightweight Rowing Club, as well as rugby players, triathletes, ultra-marathon runners, obstacle course racers and many others both young and old to reduce their pain, restore or maintain movement and support a safe return to their activities.

Gemma is qualified to teach both Pilates and Hypopressives. She has a particular interest in post natal rehabilitation, working with new mums to restore their core and pelvic floor following the stresses of pregnancy and the follow on strains to the body from caring for a new baby. She combines soft tissue work with Pilates and breathing based postural exercises to help with conditions such as diastasis recti (separated abdominal muscles), urge and stress incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse.

Gemma is a keen mountain climber; she has reached the summit of Kilimanjaro and trekked to Everest Base Camp. She is also a competitive ballroom dancer, and has a young toddler son to keep her on her toes when she isn’t on the dance floor!

Gemma completed her Diploma in Clinical Sport and Remedial Massage at the Oxford School of Sports... Read More

Melina has over 25 years’ experience as an Osteopath and fitness instructor and has been director of her own physical health clinic in Berkshire since 2003. Her busy clinic see’s hundreds of patients every week. Melina works both in clinic and virtually with patients delivering consultations, treatments and rehabilitation programs. She also lectures and delivers workshops on physical health and runs health retreats in America and the UK. She collaborates with New York Times bestselling author Sophie Uliano to create and co-host the Hello Gorgeous retreats in Miami and California.

Melina has worked with thousands of patients with injuries and dysfunctional physical health. This wealth of clinical experience leads Melina to focus her work on dedicated quick recovery times and prevention programs to prevent reoccurrence. Melina also helps clients develop healthy habits in order to upscale their physical health on a permanent basis.

Melina is an international competitive ballroom dancer and understands the need for optimal physical health. In her 50’s she continues to push her physical abilities with acute awareness of trying to stay injury free.

Melina has over 25 years’ experience as an Osteopath and fitness instructor and has been director... Read More

Select a treatment from the list on the left
to view available appointment times

Pick a treatment to book


Located at: The Harrison Clinic, Bridge Farm, Reading Road, Arborfield, Reading, RG2 9HT
Directions & Map |