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Osteopathic diagnosis and treatment involves both observation and palpation (touch), therefore you are likely to be asked to undress to your underwear, but it is not compulsory. If you are uncomfortable with undressing just let us know and we will be happy to examine and treat you while you are wearing shorts and a t-shirt. Your privacy will be respected at all times and if it is important that you are seen by a practitioner of the same gender, please let us know when you are booking your appointment.

You do not need to tell your doctor that you are seeing an osteopath. As primary healthcare practitioners we are clinically trained to assess patients without the need to look at their medical records. We sometimes need to contact your GP about aspects of your health and medical history but would always obtain your consent before contacting any medical carers. At the end of your treatment and assuming you have no objections, we send your GP a summary of any problems identified and your osteopathic treatment to ensure your medical records are kept up to date.

Osteopathic treatment is usually very gentle, but manipulating, massaging or stretching an injured area may be uncomfortable. We will explain what you are likely to feel and will always stop if the treatment is causing you too much pain. Most people initially feel easier after treatment although it is not unusual to experience a treatment reaction and become more uncomfortable as the day goes on. Where there is a reaction the discomfort can last 24-48 hours and this can be managed using over the counter pain relief such as ibuprofen or paracetamol. We will advise you on the best option and if you have any concerns about how things feel after a treatment, please get in touch.

The number of treatments varies greatly, but the majority patients require 3-5 treatment sessions. Having said that everyone responds differently to osteopathy and we will tell you if you have a problem that is likely to be completely resolved or is something that would benefit from a treatment at regular intervals to help to maintain function and manage your symptoms.

Many patients are reluctant to take painkillers however, the sensible use of medication can be extremely useful, especially in the early phases of some conditions allowing you to keep mobile and function where pain would otherwise make it more difficult. Your osteopath will provide advice on the suitability of over the counter pain medication as well as other options that could help to ease discomfort including the use of heat and/or cold packs, pain relieving gels or gentle exercises.