What will the osteopath need to know about me?
Osteopaths take many factors into consideration, rather than just looking at the 'problem' area. At your first appointment you will be asked to describe the reason for your visit, and your osteopath will also ask a number of questions to try to obtain a picture of the 'whole you'. This full case history (including your medical history) is important to establish the cause of your problem and allow your osteopath to devise the most appropriate form of treatment for you.
Will I need to undress?
You will be required to undress (leaving on your underwear) for your osteopath to examine you. However if, for particular cultural or other reasons, you prefer not to do this, just let us know when you arrive.
You may bring a companion with you if you wish and they may wait either in the treatment room or the waiting area.
What type of treatment will I receive?
Osteopaths are trained in a wide range of techniques and what is appropriate for one person may not be appropriate for another - even where symptoms appear similar. We use a combination of techniques, dependent on your specific needs.
What will the examination involve?
Examination is non-intrusive and should not cause you any further discomfort. Your osteopath will observe your posture and will ask you to perform various movements to see where there are muscular tensions and to assess the mobility of different parts of your body. They may also ask you to sit or lie down and palpate specific body locations (use their sense of touch) to identify problem areas.
Will I receive treatment on my first visit?
The majority of patients will receive treatment on their first visit, although the time available for treatment will vary according to the complexity of your particular case. Following the examination, you will be offered appropriate treatment and advice. However, please note that, in occasional cases, it may be necessary to refer you to your doctor for further tests before treatment can take place. This is to ensure your safety and wellbeing.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments you will need depends on a number of factors, including the nature and cause of your symptoms, how long you have had these symptoms and how quickly you respond to treatment.
In addition, you might be required to follow some simple exercises at home, or some other advice regarding your lifestyle and hence contribute to your own recovery.
As such it is difficult to give a 'one size suits all' estimate of the number of treatments you will need. However, the decision to continue or discontinue treatment is yours and many patients find that after an initial course of treatment they choose to come for a 'top up' treatment occasionally.
How long is my appointment and what will it cost?
Your appointment will last approximately 45 - 55 minutes - although your initial appointment may be slightly longer and subsequent appointments slightly shorter.
For most patients, a short course of treatments is enough to sort out a problem. For others however, problems tend to recur and it may be useful to have regular 'top-up' treatments to help keep problems at bay.
The charge for all appointments is £55. We request full payment for your first appointment at time of booking. This is through a payment link sent to your mobile phone.
Is there a charge if I cancel my appointment?
Where possible, please cancel in good time so that your appointment may be offered to another patient.
We reserve the right to charge 50% of the full charge for appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours notice and 100% for non-attendance at booked appointments.