What to expect...
On your first visit, a full medical case history will be taken. An examination will be carried out so please come appropriately dressed (you may be asked to remove some clothing for this) and you may then be asked to perform a few simple movements so the osteopath can assess the problem.
The osteopath will then assess areas of weakness, tenderness, restriction or strain within your body. They will then make a diagnosis and discuss it with you and if osteopathic treatment is suitable it will be offered to you. Treatment will be aimed at helping to restore normal joint stability and function.
Explaining what we are doing and what we want to achieve in treatment is important and so questions during the consultation are welcomed.
Osteopaths usually start any treatment by releasing and relaxing muscles and stretching stiff joints, using gentle massage techniques, rhythmic joint movements and muscle release techniques. If appropriate we may ask to carry out a manipulation using a short, quick movement to one or more joints. Other techniques may also be used depending on your problem.
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. You may feel stiff or sore after treatment. This is a normal, healthy response to the treatment.
Treatments usually last up to half an hour, and normally between 2 and 6 sessions are required. Many patients decide that they would like to have periodic preventative treatments to avoid recurring problems.
We can refer for other investigations; such as X-ray, MRI or to a GP, specialist or another appropriate practitioner.