WHAT TO EXPECT

I understand that it can be really daunting going somewhere new for the first time which is why on your first visit, I will do all I can to put you at ease. The following information will help you understand what to expect on your first visit.

Consultation

At the beginning of your first visit and before we commence any treatment, a full medical history is taken. Questions about your current condition are asked to help understand what may have caused your presenting problem as well as questions about your general health, lifestyle, work, leisure activities and past medical health. The questions asked will help to make the correct diagnosis and whilst osteopaths are trained to treat many problems, we are also trained to understand when the problem may not be suitable for osteopathic treatment and on rare occasions, we shall write to your GP for further consideration of tests or advice.

Physical Examination

On examination you will be asked to get undressed down to your underwear or if you would feel more comfortable, you are advised to bring shorts and a vest top to wear. You will be asked to carry out simple movements so that your posture can be observed and I can see how the different parts of your body are working together. Specialised checks may also be required at this point, such as blood pressure, pulses, sensory skin testing, reflexes etc. Palpation (touch) is also used to examine areas which are painful and helps to identify and diagnose what is causing the problem.

Diagnosis and treatment

After examination I shall explain my findings, diagnosis and proposed treatment and if I feel that osteopathic treatment is not appropriate for you then I will refer you to your GP or other specialist. I will always try and provide an idea as to how many treatments you may require and over what period, however it is not always possible to be precise, particularly if the condition has been present for many years.

Treatment to suit your individual needs

Osteopaths use a wide range of hands-on treatments and the treatments used vary from person to person depending on age, fitness and diagnosis. Treatment commonly involves massage, stretching, joint manipulation and articulation to improve your joint mobility and relax muscles. At the end of the treatment, we may discuss exercises to be done at home or I may offer advice on posture,work and seating ergonomics.

Offering a professional approach to Osteopathy, call to arrange an initial consultation 01283 224766 or 07968 765063