Stuart Hoad – BA (Hons), Dip. Phys. Ed., Ost D.O.

Main Practitioner

Stuart Hoad has established private osteopath clinics in both Tenterden and Ashford Kent providing services for the last 25 years. These two clinics have have built an excellent reputation with local GPs and medical consultants.

Born in Tenterden Kent and grew up in Rolvenden. He attended the Norton Knatchbull school from 1974 to 1980 and represented the school in all sports.

At the same time as completing his A levels he obtained his black belt in Taekwondo. He went on to win the British Championships from 1982 till 1987 in his middle weight division. He became an International fighter competing in both European and World championships. In 1985 he won the Taiwan open and placed 3rd in the World games as well as winning many open tournaments both in UK and Europe.

In 1984 he obtained his honorary degree from Lancaster University in German Language and Sports Science. He then had a year of intense study and training at The University of Sports Science in Cologne, West Germany. This period triggered his interest in manipulation and musculoskeletal injuries.

From 1987 to 1991 he studied and gained his Diploma in Osteopathy from the European School of Osteopathy. On graduating he worked for the principle of the college in London as well as an associate at a more local practise in Hastings

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Stephen Hipkiss – BSc (Hons) Ost D.O.

Based in Ashford, Kent

Stephen Hipkiss graduated from the European School of Osteopathy in 2002. Since graduating he has worked at the Rainham Osteopathic Clinic and is an important member of the Osteopathic team for Stuart Hoad and Associates, Romney House, Ashford, Kent.

Stephen uses a broad range of osteopathic techniques, tailoring each treatment to the patients needs.

Stephen has a particular interest in cranial technique and has completed several postgraduate courses in this area. He also specialises in treating the very young and new born; problems such as colic, feeding and sleeping difficulties often respond very well to a gentle cranial sacral approach.

Spencer Wainwright – BSc (Hons) Ost D.O.

Based in Tenterden, Kent

Spencer qualified from the European School of Osteopathy with a master's degree. Spencer previously gained a distinction* level 3 diploma in sports & exercise science from Canterbury College, fitness instruction from 6th form and is a certified sports massage therapist. These experiences have given spencer an open and friendly approach to treating patients.

Spencer is passionate about holistic care and tailors every treatment and management plan to every patient. Spencer is proficient in a range of techniques that he can provide to treat all ages but has a particular interest in treating babies and maternity. Spencer completed two rotations in every specialised clinic available at the European School of Osteopathy which included women’s health/maternity, sports, children's, headaches, and studied mindfulness with chronic pain patients.

Spencer continues to work with his father in their own classic car restoration company which he has grown up with. His hobbies and personal interests include Greek mythology, which he has a diploma in, as well as Italian Renaissance history and loves to travel.

Richard Hibbs – BSc (Hons) Ost D.O.

Based in Tenterden, Kent

Richard is a local and recent graduate of the prestigious European School of Osteopathy in Maidstone, Kent. He graduated in 2015 with a Masters Degree and Diploma in Osteopathy adding to his previous diploma in Sports Exercise and Sports Performance. Richard has a very professional, supportive manner and endeavours to help patients of all ages and needs using the latest and varied approaches of osteopathic treatment.

Ellie Purvis

Based in Ashford, Kent

Introducing Ellie our new associate to the Ashford practice. Ellie will be in our practice Wednesday and Saturday mornings.

Ellie qualified as an Osteopath in September 2018 after studying at the ESO and is now registered with the General Osteopathic Council (GoSC no 10040). Ellie uses a range of techniques including structural, visceral and cranial Osteopathy.

In addition to osteopathic techniques Ellie is also qualified in Body Massage, Sports massage, Medial Acupuncture, Cupping (RockPods), Sports Taping and Hot Stone Massage.

Ellie qualified as a NLP Master Practitioner in 2010 and massage therapist in 2011. Ellie has been teaching First Aid for over 20 years, swimming technique and coaching for 35 years. Her fitness qualifications include; gym, exercise to music, aquatic fitness, step fitness, GP exercise referral and Clinical Pilates with a specialisim for children, teenagers and hypermobility.

Formally a competitive swimmer, Ellie continues to work with swimming clubs, coaching, mentoring and consulting. Her Master's dissertation focussed on the use of manual therapy in the management of swimming related injuries.

Ellie is happy to treat all ages and those with disability or illness. All appointments include a medical assessment and consultation. This ensures all treatments carried out are suitable and appropriate for each individual.

Ellie has an enhanced DBS check.

Clarissa McManus

Based in Ashford, Kent

Clarissa graduated from the European School of Osteopathy in 2007 with a 2:1 B.Sc. She has worked in several clinics since, as well as working as a Lecture Assistant at the ESO for 3rd and 4th year students. Clarissa often works with babies and young children.

Clarissa uses a variety of Osteopathic techniques, structural techniques, cranial and balanced ligamentous. She particularly enjoys treating babies, small children and pregnant women. Her techniques can be applied to all patients and situations.

Outside of work Clarissa is busy with two cats and two dogs. She is a passionate collector and renovator of antique furniture, spending time searching for the items in antique fairs / boot fairs and then working on them.