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Your First Appointment

You will be seen by a fully qualified registered Osteopath. We know that some people are nervous about visiting an Osteopath. You are welcome to take a friend or relation into the treatment room with you.

Please do not hesitate to ask the Osteopath to stop the treatment and explain anything they say or do at any time during your appointment.

Before any treatment you will be asked some questions about yourself and your doctor’s name and address.

Osteopaths need to know your health, past and present and you will be asked more detailed questions about your complaint, medical history including operations and illnesses, whether you are taking any medication and about any changes in your general health.

Although some questions may seem unnecessary, all this information helps the Osteopath to make a diagnosis and a suitable treatment plan for you.

All case history details are completely confidential and will not be released without your consent.

Examination

It is important that the Osteopath sees not only the area which is causing problems but other areas which may be related to your condition.  For examination and treatment you may be asked to undress to your underwear, or the minimal level required for the Osteopath to undertake an effective examination and/or treatment – if you prefer to remain clothed please tell your practitioner.

The Osteopath may ask you to perform certain simple movements in order to understand and assess your condition.

Further examination will normally be conducted while you lie on the examination couch.  The Osteopath may do various tests such as blood pressure, reflexes, joint mobility and muscle strength.

Diagnosis and Treatment

The Osteopath will make a diagnosis which will be discussed with you and in most cases, provided that you agree to this, some treatment will be given. If the Osteopath does not think you will benefit from Osteopathic treatment, they will explain this to you. After treatment, advice and exercises may be given to you to support the treatment and help you to be more comfortable.

Rarely, some patients may feel increased discomfort just after treatment. This should only be short term and if this persists more than 48 hours please call the practice.

Complaints  

The Practice operates a strictly confidential procedure for dealing with complaints.

A copy of our complaints procedure is on display and always available in our reception area.