Did you know that here at triyoga we offer a therapy concession clinic? Every Monday and Wednesday from 8 am to 12 pm we offer concessionary rates for the elderly, jobseekers and students as we believe everybody should have access to self-care.
We spoke to acupuncturist Andrew Osbourne and masseuse Vanessa Lobo about why they run the concession clinic and why it is so important.
Why do you offer concession clinic?
Andrew: I offer a concession clinic because I think it is important that healthcare is accessible to all. It should not be out of reach of people because they happen to be elderly, on a low income or because they are on benefits.
Vanessa: I wanted to be more inclusive as I acknowledge not everyone in our community has the financial means to come for treatments and experience the positive effects of body and energy work.
What is so special about offering concession rate treatments to clients?
Andrew: There is the potential to treat on a consistent basis which is more likely to achieve better clinical results as opposed to a one-time visit. Clients also feel empowered if they feel they are actively engaged in the management of their health.
Vanessa: What makes it truly special is to witness the smiles on people’s faces when something like this becomes available to them and they can access self-care, healing and complementary medicine. It is inspiring to empower people through my treatments. I also love treating young people and children. I feel it’s important to educate our youth that support is available to them.
What conditions have you helped when treating concession clinic clients?
Andrew: Having worked in a concession clinic for three years I have seen many conditions, mainly musculoskeletal such as knee pain, shoulder pain, and the more common complaint of back pain. I have also treated cancer patients, neuropathy, headaches/migraine, as well as stress and anxiety.
Vanessa: In five years of running the concession clinic I’ve treated a whole range of conditions. From emotional ingrained holding to physical injuries.
Andrew qualified as an acupuncturist in 2015. With a special interest in pain management, he has treated a variety musculoskeletal complaints such carpal tunnel syndrome, plantar fasciitis, frozen shoulder and knee pain. Andrew also currently volunteers as an acupuncturist for a disability charity.
Vanessa holds a diploma in Traditional Chinese massage (tuina) and deep tissue massage which she has been practising privately as well as with Totnes Natural Health Centre. She is also a member of Acupuncture-Acutherapy Council.
For more information on the concession clinic click here
