Frequently asked questions:
Will treatment hurt?
Treatment shouldn’t hurt, but due to the physical nature of treatment you may feel stiff or sore for the first 24-48hrs after treatment. Please contact us if you are at all concerned.
Osteopaths work at the site of pain or injury as well as the cause, so it may be feel uncomfortable. Good communication between you and your osteopath is vital and if you are in pain or feel uncomfortable please say, so your practitioner can adjust the treatment.
What do I wear?
In order to safely assess the whole person and to treat them it is normal for an osteopath to ask the patient to dress down to their underwear. If you would feel more comfortable in shorts, a sports bra or crop top, please bring these with you. A gown can be provided for you. You will have to opportunity to change in private.
How many treatments will I need?
This will depend on your symptoms, the way your body reacts to treatment as well as a variety of other factors. If your injury is severe or you have had symptoms for a long time it may take more treatments to resolve.
Most patients feel improvement to their symptoms after 4-6 treatments. The number of treatment required will be discussed at your first appointment.
Some patients opt to have maintenance treatments, for example once every couple of month, to promote their health.
Can I bring someone with me?
Absolutely. Chaperones are welcome but due to the room size we suggest no more than 2 chaperones. For regulatory reasons treatment for under patients under 17 years old must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
What qualifications do Osteopaths have?
Osteopaths are required to study for 4 years on a full time, or 5 year part time, to obtain a Masters degree in Osteopathy. This course involves both academic and clinic practice.
After qualifying osteopaths must be registered and are regulated by the General Osteopathic Council. You can learn more by following this link GOSC Website.
Do I need a referral letter from my GP?
No, you don’t need a referral letter from your GP.
Do you have to “crack” my back/neck?
No. If the osteopath thinks this is appropriate they will first discuss this with you. If you don’t feel comfortable there are other techniques that can be used. “Cracking” or an high velocity thrust (HVT) can only performed with your consent. This is true for all techniques osteopaths use.
What happens to my medical notes?
All notes taken by our clinicians are confidential. Information can only be shared if you give your written consent.
Would I ever not receive treatment?
Some severe conditions can manifest themselves as muscular pain but be caused by something more sinister. It is part of osteopathic training to diagnosis whether the condition is muscular-skeletal or a more serious ailment. This is why a full medical case history is taken with every new patient. If we feel that your symptoms may be caused by a non-musculoskeletal undiagnosed condition we will that you see you doctor. In these cases we are very happy to write a referral letter for you.