Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Alternative Medicine Clinic in Oxford
Summertown Clinic, established in 1975, is Oxford's longest-running centre for osteopathy and complementary therapies. Founded on family values, we combine traditional practices with modern healthcare approaches to prioritise patient well-being. Our multidisciplinary team of 28 practitioners offers 18 therapies, including osteopathy, chiropractic care, and acupuncture, supported by state-of-the-art facilities. With over 45 years of experience, we have treated more than 11,000 patients annually while maintaining a community-focused ethos. Our award-winning team, including practitioners like Chris Boardman (with us since 1980), demonstrates deep expertise across conditions from sports injuries to chronic pain. We hold national recognition through awards such as Clinic of the Year (CAM Therapy Expo 2014) and maintain rigorous professional standards through continuous development.Our purpose-built clinic features air-conditioned treatment rooms, accessibility upgrades, and a commitment to environmental sustainability. We collaborate across disciplines to provide holistic care, regularly cross-referring between specialists. Backed by major health insurers and serving communities across Oxfordshire, we combine clinical excellence with compassionate service. Our community engagement includes charity fundraising and educational initiatives, reflecting our mission to deliver the highest standards of complementary therapy care.
Services
Osteopathy
Chiropractic
Massage
Acupuncture
Podiatry
Child Psychology
Talking Therapies
Audiology
Nutritional Therapy
Foot Health
Details
- Year established: 1975
Highlights and features
- 45+ years of experience treating over 11,000 patients annually
- Multidisciplinary team of 28 award-winning practitioners
- Purpose-built accessible clinic with air-conditioned rooms
- National award winners for clinical excellence since 2014
- Collaborative cross-disciplinary treatment approaches
What people say
Excellent team
Positive words
Significant improvement
Knowledgeable practitioners
Luxurious environment
Services
Osteopathy
Our osteopaths treat musculoskeletal conditions through hands-on techniques, addressing back pain, joint issues, and postural problems. With over 100 combined years of experience, our practitioners use spinal manipulation and soft tissue work to improve mobility and reduce pain. Patients benefit from individualised treatment plans that may include exercise prescriptions and lifestyle advice.
Chiropractic
Specialist chiropractic treatment focuses on spinal health and nervous system function. Using McTimoney and traditional techniques, we address conditions like sciatica, headaches, and sports injuries. Our practitioners combine joint adjustments with postural analysis to restore alignment and prevent recurring issues through patient education.
Acupuncture
Traditional acupuncture sessions target pain management and wellness through strategic needle placement. Our certified practitioners treat migraines, arthritis, and stress-related conditions by stimulating the body's natural healing processes. Sessions incorporate modern understanding of anatomy and physiology alongside classical Chinese medicine principles.
Nutritional Therapy
Personalised nutrition programmes address digestive issues, allergies, and chronic conditions through dietary changes. Our therapists conduct detailed assessments to create meal plans that optimise energy levels and immune function. Treatment includes food intolerance testing and supplementation advice tailored to individual health goals.
Talking Therapies
Clinical hypnotherapy, CBT, and counselling address anxiety, phobias, and emotional trauma. Our therapists use evidence-based techniques to modify negative thought patterns and develop coping strategies. Sessions focus on achieving specific outcomes like stress reduction or overcoming phobias through structured therapeutic approaches.
People
James Ruddick
Principal Osteopath
James Ruddick joined Summertown Clinic in 2006 after qualifying in osteopathy. With a chemistry background and experience in Lancashire, he leads our osteopathy team while maintaining active clinical practice.
Joanna Ruddick
Osteopath
Joanna Ruddick qualified in osteopathy after psychology studies at Newcastle University. She has practiced at Summertown Clinic since 2005, specialising in treating sports injuries and postural disorders.
Chris Boardman
Acupuncturist
Chris Boardman has been with Summertown Clinic since 1980, combining acupuncture with homeopathy. His expertise in bioresonance therapy makes him a key practitioner for complex health conditions.
Questions
What therapies do you offer?
We provide 18 therapies including osteopathy, chiropractic, acupuncture, podiatry, nutritional therapy, and talking therapies. Our multidisciplinary approach allows coordinated care across specialties.
How quickly can I get an appointment?
We offer appointments within 48 hours. Emergency slots are available for urgent cases, with online booking accessible through our website.
Are your practitioners qualified?
All practitioners hold relevant degrees and professional memberships. Many have won national awards, including Principal of the Year (James Ruddick, 2017).
Do you accept insurance?
We work with major UK health insurers. Patients should check policy coverage before booking, as we operate as a private clinic with insurance claim support.
What are your facilities like?
Our clinic features air-conditioned treatment rooms, accessible facilities, and modern equipment including individual sinks and adjustable lighting in every room.
Do you offer online consultations?
We provide online Pilates and yoga classes. For clinical consultations, we recommend in-person visits though some initial assessments may be conducted via telephone.
