Frequently asked questions.
Is Osteopathy safe?
Osteopathic treatment is an extremely safe and natural approach to health care which works with the body's own health and repair mechanisms. Osteopathy is a recognized health profession, and has the same safeguards that you would enjoy if you visited a doctor or a dentist.
What does treatment feel like?
The osteopath's highly developed sense of touch allows them to use extremely gentle techniques to resolve these strains,
in order to relieve discomfort and improve your child's body function.
Some of the techniques employed by osteopaths may occasionally provoke a mild discomfort during their application, but communication between the patient and osteopath means that this should never be to a degree that would be unpleasant.
Occasionally after visits patients may experience a treatment reaction and some exaggeration of their symptoms for a brief period, normally no longer than 24 hours. This is most often not the case. Patients are encouraged to contact their osteopath if this causes concern.
How long will I need to wait for an appointment?
We can normally offer same day appointments for acute or emergency cases - please phone first thing in the morning to check availability for that day. For less urgent cases, you may need to wait a day or two; we will always do what we can to see you as soon as possible.
How many treatments will I need?
Your osteopath will discuss this with you at your first appointment. We often mange to relieve a problem in 2-3 treatments, though, unless your condition is more severe or chronic where you might need an adult might need 4-6 sessions over a period of several weeks.
Is it necessary to see my GP first?
Many patients are referred by their doctor, but it is not necessary to visit them first since all osteopaths are now regulated under law by the General Osteopathic Council.
This is shown by the letters after the osteopath’s name. Everyone practising osteopathy in our clinic are properly qualified and insured. We will liaise with your GP or any other specialist
if necessary and with your consent. We pride ourselves with close relationships with local specialists & complementary therapists allowing us to facilitate prompt referals.
Osteopathy during pregnancy?
As a mum-to-be, you are carrying an increasingly heavy load - your body has to adapt to your increase in weight, and the shift of your centre of gravity, as well as making room for your baby as she grows. This can be particularly challenging if you already have a child in the family, and are spending time carrying them about as well. You may be experiencing backache, pain in your sides, ribs or hips, and you may also find that simple things like walking, sitting, or turning over in bed are now uncomfortable, or even painful. Problems like these are so common in pregnancy that they are often considered normal. This should not mean that you need to suffer! Pain or discomfort is a sign that your body is struggling and needs help.
What to expect on your first visit?
The Osteopath will take a full case history, involving your presenting complaint, questions on your general health, lifestyle and past medical history. This is followed by a physical examination, when the osteopath will assess you. They will then arrive at a diagnosis and treatment plan. Normally 3 to 6 treatments should be sufficient to alleviate the presenting symptoms.
What will I need to wear?
For the osteopath to examine you properly, you may need to remove some of your clothes to your underwear. If you feel uncomfortable about this, please
feel free to bring a pair of shorts and T-shirt or any other loose clothing.
What does treatment involve?
Techniques employed, depending on the patient may involve massage, stretching and manipulation. In general the treatment does not hurt,
there may be aching afterwards, especially if the problem is severe or longstanding. This normally subsides very quickly. We encourage patients to contact us if they have any concerns.
What is the difference between an Osteopath and a Chiropractor?
Chiropractic treatment is based primarily on manipulation of the spine whereas osteopathic treatment employs a wider range of techniques overall such as stretching, massage, pressure and mobilisation. Osteopaths have a holistic approach to their patients and treat the underlying cause not just the symptoms. Osteopathic treatment is aimed at the patient needing as few treatments as possible as we are treating the cause not just the symptoms.
What is the difference between an Osteopath and a Physiotherapist?
Your GP may have advised you to see a physic on the NHS. This would take place in the form of exercises at the hospital or the GP's surgery or can sometimes consist of advice on exercises for the problem over the phone. Osteopaths tend to perform manipulation, massage and other "hands on" treatment to resolve the problem before they advise on exercises.
What can Osteopaths treat?
Osteopaths treat a wide range of conditions that include back and neck pain, peripheral joint pain, trapped nerves, repetitive strain, headaches, minor sporting injuries, arthritic pain, and many other conditions. Please contact us if you are uncertain if osteopathy is appropriate for your condition.