Osteopathy
Osteopathy is a manual therapy that works to diagnose and treat a multitude of musculoskeletal conditions. It is not simply focused on treating the site of pain, but looks at the body as a functional unit, in order to determine and treat the underlying cause of dysfunction. It does this by using a variety of hands on techniques including soft tissue massage, muscle energy techniques, joint articulations, manipulations as well as prescribing rehabilitative and strength based exercises.
Your First Visit
First visits generally last for one hour, this allows the Osteopath time to take a comprehensive case history, which will investigate your current complaint as well as any relevant previous medical history. They will then assess you in different planes of motion, looking for both quality and range of movement available, to determine where function may be compromised. This assessment may also include some orthopaedic as well as neurological examinations. Once these have been carried out the Osteopath will then explain their findings and what they believe to be the contributing factors. If the patient is then happy to proceed and it is medically safe to do so the Osteopath will continue with treatment, all the time explaining each technique and reason for it. Quite often follow up appointments will be needed, the reason for which would again be explained.
How many treatments will you need
This is a difficult question to definitively answer, as each patient and condition is different, and therefore is treated on an individual basis. But as a general rule I would expect a patient to gain notable relief within 3-6 treatments, after which in some cases a maintenance schedule may be advised, in order to maintain improved function.
What To wear
Due to the nature of the consultation it is recommend you wear loose comfortable clothing to enable a thorough investigation of joint mobility as well as easy access to problematic areas. Ideally sportswear, such as shorts and a vest/t-shirt are more than adequate. There will be an opportunity for you to privately change should you need to before your consultation begins.
Additional Information
If you have any more questions or queries, then please feel free to contact me and I will be happy to advise.
Common Conditions We Treat
Back pain
Sciatica
Neck pain
Headaches
Sports injuries
Repetitive strain
Arthritis