Osteopathy or Chiropractic Care? Meet the Team Behind The Ashfield Practice in Corsham
If you're searching for an osteopath near Chippenham or a chiropractor near Bath, you've probably noticed the two terms get used almost interchangeably — but they're not quite the same thing. At The Ashfield Practice in Corsham, we offer both, so patients across Wiltshire, from Bradford-on-Avon to Melksham, Calne and Devizes, can find the right treatment for their specific needs, whether that's back pain, sciatica, sports injuries or joint pain.
Here's a plain-English guide to the difference, plus an introduction to the practitioners providing your care.
What Does an Osteopath Do?
Osteopathy is a hands-on approach to diagnosing, treating and preventing a wide range of musculoskeletal problems. Osteopaths use techniques such as stretching, massage and joint mobilisation to improve circulation, ease tension and support the body's own healing processes. Treatment is tailored to the individual, and osteopaths are trained to treat patients of all ages — from babies to elderly patients — as well as expectant mothers.
Meet Lucy Osborne-Kirby, M.Ost — Principal Osteopath
Lucy holds a Master's degree in Osteopathy (M.Ost.) from the University College of Osteopathy (formerly the British School of Osteopathy) and is a registered member of the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC).
Lucy treats a wide range of musculoskeletal concerns across all age groups, including specialised post-operative care and rehabilitation. Her patients include runners, triathletes, ultra-marathon runners, horse riders, professional musicians, and rugby and football players managing everything from hip and knee issues to shoulder, elbow and wrist discomfort.
During her training, Lucy gained experience in specialist clinics for expectant mothers and children, as well as at London's Royal Free Hospital HIV Clinic — experience that shaped her understanding of how medication can affect musculoskeletal health. Alongside traditional osteopathic treatment, Lucy also offers Craniosacral Therapy, a gentle, hands-on technique well suited to babies, children, older adults, or anyone who prefers a lighter touch.
Lucy is also qualified to provide a range of prescribed intramuscular vitamin injections — including B12, Vitamin D, Vitamin C, B-Complex, Collagen, Biotin and Glutathione — where clinically appropriate, as part of a broader approach to health and wellbeing.
Osteopathy runs in Lucy's family: her grandmother, a professional ballet dancer at the Royal Opera House, was introduced to osteopathy through the physical demands of her career — a passion that was later passed down through Lucy's mother and now to Lucy herself, making it a three-generation family legacy.
What Does a Chiropractor Do?
Chiropractic care focuses specifically on the spine, joints and nervous system. Chiropractors use hands-on techniques including spinal and joint manipulation, mobilisation, soft tissue therapy and rehabilitation exercises to restore movement and reduce pain. Chiropractic treatment places particular emphasis on joint function, helping the body move more efficiently, and often incorporates education and exercise for long-term self-management.
People typically seek chiropractic care for back pain, neck pain, headaches, joint pain, sports injuries and general movement problems. Chiropractors complete extensive Master's-level training and are regulated by the General Chiropractic Council (GCC).
Meet Chlöe Phelps, MChiro — Chiropractor
Chlöe graduated from the University of South Wales with first-class honours, completing the four-year Master of Chiropractic degree in 2024. She is a registered member of the General Chiropractic Council (GCC) and divides her time between Bristol and Corsham, bringing chiropractic care to the local community.
Chlöe was introduced to chiropractic care herself after a series of sports injuries from javelin and netball. After trying physiotherapy and consulting a spinal specialist, chiropractic treatment made the difference — and it's what inspired her to pursue the profession, so she could offer others the same standard of care.
Since graduating, Chlöe has continued her professional development and is now also qualified in dry needling and kinesiology taping, alongside her core chiropractic training.
So, Which Should You Choose — Osteopathy or Chiropractic?
Both professions are safe, evidence-informed, and regulated by their respective governing bodies. In practice, the right choice often comes down to your specific symptoms and personal preference rather than one being "better" than the other:
Sports injuries, joint pain or general aches — either Lucy or Chlöe can help, and we're happy to advise which is the better starting point for your symptoms.
Pregnancy, paediatric care, or a preference for gentler treatment — Lucy's osteopathy and Craniosacral Therapy experience may be the better fit.
Spine-focused issues like recurring back or neck pain and headaches — Chlöe's chiropractic training, including dry needling and kinesiology taping, is well suited here.
Not sure? Call us on 01249 659749 and we'll help point you in the right direction.
Book Your Appointment in Corsham
Whether you're local to Corsham or travelling from Chippenham, Bath, Box, Bradford-on-Avon, Melksham, Calne or Devizes, Lucy and Chlöe are here to help you move and feel better.
Book an appointment online or call 01249 659749.
