Many of our patients have questions before their visit, so we have tried to answer a few of the most common ones here. If there is something that we have not covered please get in touch and we will be able to help you
The first time you visit an osteopath a full case history will be taken. This will involve asking a series of questions to make sure we understand your medical history and day to day routine, as these may give clues to help establish a diagnosis and to determine if you are suitable for treatment. This will be followed by a physical examination assessing your posture and how you move your body both actively and passively. These findings will then help to formulate a diagnosis. When a full diagnosis has been made the osteopath will explain the problem and, if both parties are happy, the osteopath will suggest a treatment plan. This will involve structural and possibly cranial osteopathy as well as advice on diet, exercise, posture and the prognosis of the presenting problem
In the UK osteopathy is regulated by a Government Statute, The Osteopath’s Act of 1993. This ensures that anyone practising as an osteopath is properly trained and insured. Osteopathy is a well established and respected profession. The General Osteopathic Council was formed in 1993, taking over from the General Council and Register of Osteopaths, as the governing body of osteopathy. It is responsible for regulating the profession. Anybody calling themselves an osteopath must be registered with The General Osteopathic Council by law: www.osteopathy.org.uk
All registered practitioners are trained for at least four years to obtain a degree in osteopathy, which has more emphasis on anatomy and musculoskeletal medicine and includes more than 2000 hours of training in practical osteopathic techniques. All registered osteopaths are required by the regulator to update their skills (Continual Professional Development) every year and so you can be assured that osteopathy is a safe and effective form of treatment
Most mechanical problems will resolve within two to four treatments, however, the presenting condition will dictate the treatment and prognosis.
Your first consultation will cost £45 and any follow-up treatments will cost £45. For children and babies, the first consultation will cost £35 and any follow-up treatments will cost £35.
The treatment/consultation will last approximately 30 minutes.
Sometimes the cause of your presenting problem may not be where the pain is, for example pain in your foot may be coming from your lower back so, as with any medical examination, there may be a need for you to undress to your underwear. If you are uncomfortable with this please discuss this with your osteopath and alternative arrangements can be made.
Yes – if you wish, you can have somebody present throughout your consultation and treatment.
Some soft tissue treatment may cause discomfort during treatment. Your osteopath will tell you what to expect and will want you to let them know if you are in pain. It is not unusual to feel stiff and sore for two to three days following treatment, this is a normal healthy response to treatment.
You do not need to see your doctor first if you are paying for your own treatment. However, some insurance companies require you to see your doctor first.
Yes – we are a recognised healthcare provider for most major health insurance companies including BUPA, AXA PPP Health Care, WPA and Simply Health.