What to Expect

On your first visit to the clinic a full detailed medical history will be taken. This will include gaining information from you about your medical, social and occupational history. You will also be asked detailed questions about your complaint, general health, diet and any medication you may be taking.

A physical examination will then be carried out. This normally involves you being asked to remove some of your clothing (typically down to your underwear) and performing a simple series of movements and tests.

If you choose, you may have a friend or relative present during the appointment.

Using touch, alongside specific orthopaedic tests, Osteopaths are trained to identify points of weakness or excessive strain in your body.

The findings and diagnosis will be discussed with you. If your condition is deemed appropriate for Osteopathic treatment an explanation of the treatment plan will be given and on gaining your consent treatment will begin.

You will usually be treated lying on a treatment couch. Subsequent treatments will involve re-examination and assessment of your progress.

Your first clinical session will last for about 1 hour. Subsequent treatments will last for approximately 30 minutes.

The number of treatments needed depends on your condition and how you respond to treatment as everyone is different. If you have chronic low back pain for example, you may need several treatments. For acute pain, one or two treatments may be enough.

After an osteopathic treatment, you may feel stiff or sore for a few hours. This can feel similar to post-exercise soreness. Feel free to ring and talk with me if you have any concerns.