News from
the iO
Dr Amanda Banton’s research work on cranial osteopathy receives national award
Published 17 December 2025
Dr Amanda Banton was named the Research in Practice Award winner at the Institute of Osteopathy’s (iO) prestigious awards ceremony in London on 22 November.
The Research in Practice Award is for exceptional contributions to advancing evidence-informed practice within osteopathy. The award is presented in collaboration with the National Council for Osteopathic Research (NCOR) and recognises work that contributes meaningfully to the evidence base underpinning osteopathic practice.
This year’s award celebrated Amanda’s research papers, “Making Sense of Cranial Osteopathy” and “Relational Clinical Practice”, both published in the International Journal of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr Amanda Banton receives the Award from Dr Jerry Draper-Rodi,
Director of the National Council for Osteopathic Research.
Dr Alison Robinson Canham, Chief Executive of the Institute of Osteopathy, said:
“Dr Amanda Banton’s research into cranial osteopathy has proven invaluable to educational institutions, offering actionable insights to support future student populations better and enhance inclusivity for osteopaths already in practice.”
The judges praised Amanda’s research as well-designed, relevant, and clinically useful. They also recognised its thoughtful exploration of patient and clinician perspectives, and its value in strengthening communication and informed consent, particularly in cranial osteopathy.
Amanda practises osteopathy in a multi-disciplinary clinic in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. She is a Fellow of the Sutherland Cranial College of Osteopathy. In 2019, she was awarded a Professional Doctorate in Osteopathy for a thesis on the philosophical and neurophysiological aspects of embodied communication between osteopaths and their patients.
“Dr Amanda Banton’s research into cranial osteopathy has proven invaluable to educational institutions, offering actionable insights to support future student populations better and enhance inclusivity for osteopaths already in practice.”
Dr Alison Robinson Canham, CEO
She was delighted to win the award:
“Is a great honour for my work to receive this recognition, and I wish to thank my friends and colleagues in osteopathy who have given me so much support during my research odyssey”.
The award was presented by Dr Jerry Draper Rodi, Director of the National Council for Osteopathic Research (NCOR), who sponsored this year’s Research in Practice Award. NCOR supports the development of evidence-based practice in osteopathy, fostering innovation and collaboration within the profession.
Osteopaths continue to contribute significantly to public health, combining clinical expertise with research-based practice. The Institute of Osteopathy is proud to honour individuals like Amanda Banton, whose dedication strengthens the profession and supports delivering exceptional patient care.
For further information, please contact:
Dr Amanda Banton – osteopath@mandybanton.co.uk
Congratulations to Dr Banton on her well-deserved win. Discover all the 2025 Award winners and their inspiring stories here.