WHAT TO EXPECT FROM TREATMENT

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History taking and examining

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Osteopathy is a patient-centred, system of healthcare. An osteopath will:

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• Listen and ask questions about your problem, your general health, other medical care you are receiving or medication you are taking, and record this in your case notes. The information you provide will be confidential.

• Examine you properly. It is likely the osteopath will ask you to remove some of your clothing, that may be down to your underwear, we recommend you wear something that makes you feel comfortable or bring alternatives such as shorts or vest tops. Do let your osteopath know if you are uncomfortable with this. You can ask a friend or relative to accompany you and be present throughout your treatment.

• Ask you to make simple movements and stretches to observe your posture and mobility. Because of the body’s structure, pain or stiffness you are experiencing in one part may be linked to a problem elsewhere.

• Examine the health of the joints, tissues and ligaments using their hands and a highly developed sense of touch called palpation.

• Other tests may be conducted to check that your internal systems are not contributing to the discomfort e.g. blood pressure, reflexes, abdominal palpation and respiratory examinations.

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Your osteopath will also check for signs of serious conditions they cannot treat and may advise you to see your GP or go to hospital, in this situation we will provide you with a letter explaining what they believe to be the problem.

 

Patients under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or friend and any patient can have a companion if they feel happier doing so.

 

Diagnosis and treatment

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Your osteopath will give you a clear explanation of what they find (their diagnosis) and discuss a treatment plan that is suitable for you. They will explain the benefits and any risks of the treatment they are recommending. It is important to understand and agree what the treatment can achieve, and the likely number of sessions needed for a noticeable improvement in how you feel.

Treatment is hands-on and involves skilled manipulation of the spine and joints, and massage of soft tissues. Your osteopath will explain what they are doing and will always ask your permission to treat you (known as consent). You are able to ask questions at any time if you are unsure what you have been told or if you have any concerns.

Self-help measures and advice on exercise may be offered to assist your recovery, prevent recurrence or worsening of symptoms.

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It may require more than one visit before your problem is resolved. The osteopath will review your progress at each subsequent visit and seek your consent to any changes to your treatment plan.

 

How will I feel after the treatment?

 

Because of the physical nature of the treatment, it is not unusual to feel sore in the first 24-48 hours after treatment. Your Osteopath will explain any likely reactions that you could expect.

If you have any concerns it is important to contact the Osteopath and ask their advice. The Osteopath will review your progress at each subsequent visit and seek your consent to any changes to your treatment plan.

 

Covid-19 and vulnerable precautions 

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If you consider yourself to be clinically vulnerable the Osteopath in discussion with yourself, determine whether face-to-face treatment is appropriate in your individual circumstances, taking into account the likely benefits and risks and they are being advised to ensure they explain these clearly so you are able to give your informed consent.  You can talk through any concerns you may have about attending for treatment in the light of COVID-19 with the reception team or your osteopath. 

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On entry to the clinic the practitioner will take your temperature using our infra-red thermometer directed at your forehead. If you and the practitioner are happy to proceed the appointment will take place.