About Us
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Active X Clinics History
Active X Clinics was founded in Edinburgh in 1992. In those days Gavin Routledge was the 6th osteopath in Edinburgh. Since then, the clinic has had a wealth of experience with more than 25 osteopaths and 10 massage therapists who have been a part of the Active X team.
After 10 years of expansion beyond Edinburgh, the business established one centre of excellence in Edinburgh’s West End. Having completed a Masters Degree in The Clinical Management of Pain at the University of Edinburgh in 2015, in 2017 Gavin released his 2nd book on lower back pain. Having published the first with Gavin Hastings OBE in 1997 – The Back Book.
Gavin’s own experience of lower back pain, further qualified him to empathise with those suffering this debilitating problem. Gavin has over 30 years of experience, specialising in the treatment of lower back pain and sciatica at his West End clinic. Today, Active X’s expert team is composed of osteopaths, massage therapists, a sports scientist/PT, and physiotherapist. As a team, Active X offers a holistic approach to help you live pain-free and active for life.
Our Values
Compassion
We hear the person, not just the pain. True recovery starts with being understood. We build personal relationships and tailor every plan to your unique needs and lifestyle, ensuring you feel supported from your first consultation throughout your entire journey.
Growth
Nothing in nature stands still, and neither do we. We believe that staying active for life requires constant evolution. Our team commits to continuous learning and innovation, ensuring our knowledge grows so that you never stop moving forward.
Excellence
Excellence in every detail. We live by the philosophy that how you do anything is how you do everything. From data-led, goal-driven assessments to the smallest interactions, we hold ourselves to the highest standard to ensure your care is purposeful, effective, and world-class.
Vitality
Energy is contagious. We believe healing happens best in a space of warmth. We're dedicated to cultivating an inspired, healthy team in order to create an uplifting space where you feel comfortable, empowered, and genuinely looked after.
A Centre of Excellence
The business purposefully contracted from 2010-2012, becoming just the one centre of excellence in Edinburgh’s West End.
Gavin wanted to specialise in back pain and sciatica treatment. Having completed a Masters Degree in The Clinical Management of Pain at the University of Edinburgh in 2015, in 2017 Gavin released his 2nd book on lower back pain. Having published the first with Gavin Hastings OBE in 1997 – The Back Book.
Gavin’s own experience of lower back pain, further qualified him to empathise with those suffering this debilitating problem. Gavin has over 30 years of experience, specialising in the treatment of lower back pain and sciatica at his West End clinic.
Continuing to specialise in low back pain and sciatica
Since 2015, Gavin has developed an app for low back pain. And written courses on the management of lower back pain for physical therapists and fitness professionals.
Building a great team in Edinburgh
Part of the journey is to support others in the team to be their best. So, whether you’re looking for the best back massage in Edinburgh, or to see a great Personal Trainer turned osteopath (Jordan), we have what you need.
Leveraging his
knowledge
Gavin and Fiona are training health and fitness professionals to play a much bigger role in the rehabilitation of persistent lower back pain and sciatica sufferers.
The impact of lifestyle on low back pain
Being convinced of the impact of lifestlye on pain, he passed the International Diploma in Lifestyle Medicine in December 2021. And is proud now to be a Certified Lifestyle Medicine Professional.