I attained a MSc in Paediatric Osteopathy at the Osteopathic Centre for Children (OCC) in London, having first studied Osteopathy at the London School of Osteopathy (LSO). Before that, back in the Soviet Union, I gained my first Paediatric Qualifications (MD) from 2nd Moscow State Medical School.

I am interested in physical medicine and rehabilitation, and am taken by the process of continuous adaptation of the CNS to the changes in our internal and external environment, with reflexes being at the core of all processes in the human biological system. In the end, it is the complexity of our reflex interactions that underlines our both conscious and subconscious behaviour by directly influencing our motor, endocrine, and autonomic responses.

The primary goal of my interaction with a patient is to improve the performance of their CNS, reflex activity, restore sensory-motor interactions, and increase the adaptability at all levels of functioning in children and adult alike. I had amazing and inspirational mentors and tutors throughout my carrier, especially at OCC. I take pride in continuing my education, and conducting clinical research that shapes the way I think and care for patients. As part of my neuromuscular rehabilitation work (in conjunction with educationalists in Teach First, CCCU), I have done a number of studies on motor-dysgraphia in children in secondary and primary schools.

Finally, I enjoy my role as an educator, having an opportunity to be guest-lecturer in paediatrics to post-graduate osteopaths within SCCO. There is a certain point in most teacher-student interactions where the person you are working with ‘gets it.’ These moments provide the kind of positive reinforcement that keeps me coming back. Together with my colleagues I am currently developing more postgraduate and public courses in postural development, and writing a book on baby handling skills for optimal postural development.

I consider my work a great joy and a privilege to help the tiniest of all patients and their families.