FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a form of manual therapy and treatment aimed at reducing pain, restoring function and creating a homeostatic balance in the body. We work with the body as a whole unit and use varied approaches in our treatments. This includes joint articulation, soft tissue manipulation, stretching and strengthening techniques. Osteopaths treat babies right through to the elderly, and develop a tailored approach for each individual.
What do osteopaths treat?
After an intense four year course osteopaths are equipped to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. This can be musculoskeletal such as lower back pain, neck pain, muscle strains and ligament sprains to name a few. We can help manage rheumatological conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis, rheumatologic arthritis and other spondyloarthropathys. Repetitive stress injuries, carpal tunnel, sciatica, tennis elbow, frozen shoulder, osteoarthritis, headaches and many more conditions are all within our scope of treatment.
What will happen at the first appointment?
Your first appointment will consist of the initial consultation- this is where we will take a thorough case history, talk about any medical conditions you may have and discuss your current presentation/reason for visiting us. We will then go through an active and a passive examination where we are able to assess how your body is moving and where we will be able to help. We will explain our findings and how we would like to treat. If you are happy to go ahead we will then treat at the initial appointment.
How many sessions will I need?
Number of appointments needed can vary a fair bit depending on patients and their presentations. Past experience shows that 4-6 treatments on average are adequate to address the problem, treat any compensations and create preventative strategies to reduce the likelihood of re-occurrence.
Is it painful?
Osteopathy treatment is not painful, and good communication between osteopath and patient will ensure that we treat within the patients pain threshold. A reaction to treatment can sometimes occur, with an increased soreness, fatigue or discomfort. However this should not last more than 24-48 hours.
Are Osteopaths regulated?
Osteopaths are regulated by the General Osteopathic Council (GOSC) and have to register annually. We are required to complete regular hours of continued professional development to ensure we are up to date with current research.
How long are the sessions?
The initial appointment will consist of the consultation, examination and treatment- this will last 45 minutes.
A follow up appointment will last 30-40 minutes.
Will you give me exercises to do at home?
As osteopaths we work with the human body as a whole and realise that a 40 minute appointment is usually not enough to implement change. Most of our treatment plans will include either stretches, exercises or changes for you as the patient to do at home. This speeds up the progression of your treatment plan, and gives you the tools to start taking charge of your own body.
Do you accept insurance payments?
Dependant on your insurance provider you may be able to claim part or all of your treatment cost. We are able to write detailed receipts for insurance purposes. If you would like to know more please contact us.
What conditions can we help with?
- Lower back pain, Neck pain, Thoracic pain
- Sciatica, Carpal tunnel and nerve related pain
- Frozen shoulder, tennis elbow, hand and wrist pain
- Plantar fasciitis, foot, hip and knee pain
- Muscle strains, ligament sprains, tendinopathies
- Osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, degenerative conditions
- Headaches, migraines, jaw pain
- Stress and inability to relax
- Fibromyalgia, rheumatic pain
- Digestive problems
- Circulatory problems
- Postural issues
- Pregnancy related pain
- Post surgery rehab
- Sports injuries
What can we offer advice on?
- Posture
- Exercise
- Rehabilitation
- Sleep hygiene
- Diet
- Lifestyle
- Desk set up/working from home
Can I speak to somebody?
If you are unsure whether osteopathy is right for you or have a question feel free to contact us through our Contact page or book in for a free 15 minute phone consultation.