with Dr Oliver Thomson (Osteopath and Researcher) - The Problem With Evidence-Based Practice

In this episode of The Physio Coach Podcast, Charlie Goodchild sits down with London-based osteopath, researcher and educator Dr Oliver Thomson to explore evidence-based practice, clinical reasoning and the realities of delivering patient-centred MSK care.

They discuss why research doesn’t always map neatly onto the individual in front of us, what really makes someone skilled at manual therapy and how clinicians can balance evidence, experience and patient preferences. They also explore the similarities between physiotherapy and osteopathy, the importance of language and the ethical challenges of providing care in private practice.

Topics covered:

Evidence-based practice and clinical uncertainty

Why research doesn’t always translate neatly to individual patients

Experience, reflection and the development of clinical expertise

The value and limitations of manual therapy

What makes someone genuinely skilled with their hands

The importance of touch, communication and clinical performance

How language can reassure patients—or create fear

Clinical reasoning, pattern recognition and patient-centred care

The similarities between physiotherapy, osteopathy and chiropractic

Professional identity within MSK healthcare

Patient choice, shared decision-making and treatment preferences

The ethics of overtreatment and running a private practice

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🎧 Guest:
Dr Oliver Thomson

🌐 Website:
https://www.droliverthomson.com/

📸 Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/droliver_t/

🤝 This episode is sponsored by Jane App

Jane is a clinic management software designed to help healthcare professionals run smoother, more efficient practices—from booking and scheduling to notes and payments.

🔗 Learn more: https://jane.app

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Use the code PHYSIOCOACH2MO for two months free.

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