Edinburgh business lessons: Amanda Oswald, owner of the Pain Care Clinic

Sponsored

Amanda Oswald, owner of the Pain Care Clinic, launched her business nearly two years ago, when she moved back to Edinburgh, after living and working in Leeds for close to a decade.

The clinic, based in Leith, specialises in myofascial release, which Amanda describes as “a gentle, hands-on therapy, that works to release restrictions in the fascia, the main connective tissue in the body, which is often the source of chronic pain.” 

As well as offering one-to-one and online appointments, Amanda, who has more than 17 years’ experience of helping people with chronic pain, also offers online courses to help manage pain, including simple self-care exercises. She is author of Living Pain Free: Healing Chronic Pain with Myofascial Release and Trigger Points: Use the Power of Touch to Live Life Pain-Free (A Little Book of Self Care).

Here, Amanda shares with us some of the lessons she’s learned about both running a business and doing business in Edinburgh, as a member of the capital’s thriving entrepreneurial community. 

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from running a business and doing business

in Edinburgh? 

One of the lessons I’ve learned is that when you move to a new location, it takes time and some elbow grease to promote your business to the point where people notice and come to you.

What makes Edinburgh special for you?  

Edinburgh is special to me because I grew up here. It’s lovely to be back again after many years away.

Also, there’s a fantastic mix of cultures in the city, and Edinburgh’s vibe is great too – big city meets local neighbourhood!

What would you like to see more of in Edinburgh, that could help your

business?

I’d like to see more support, such as funded training courses or advice, for micro businesses like mine. This can be helpful not just for gaining knowledge but also for meeting other small-business owners.

How has the city helped your business grow? 

I’ve seen my business grow from a standing start to having a busy weekly diary – there’s a willingness among the people here to try new and different therapies. 

What are the main challenges of doing business in Edinburgh? 

The heavy traffic and endless roadworks can be a challenge for clients when travelling to their appointments. 

Which business-support organisations, societies and networking events have you

found most beneficial for doing business in Edinburgh?

When I first arrived in Edinburgh, I attended a number of networking events, such as Wee Bit Social, and others, which were all really useful in helping me find my business ‘feet’.

What do Edinburgh clients and customers want – and how do you deliver it to

them?

My clients want help to sort out their chronic-pain issues. Many of them have had

pain for months or years, and have tried all sorts of approaches but generally have

been told there is nothing more that can be done for them.

I don’t believe you have to live with chronic pain. I’ve helped many people out of pain, often after months or years of suffering.

www.paincareclinic.co.uk