On your first appointment (45-60 minutes) you will have a detailed case history, examination, manual treatment and advice.
Detailed case history:
The case history will include asking about your presenting problem, together with a full medical history. These questions are an important part of the diagnosis process and will guide which examinations will be performed, together with screening for any potential medical issues.
Physical Examination:
For this part you may be asked to undress to your underwear, so please wear modest underwear in which you are comfortable. This allows observation of your posture, and manual assessment with the osteopath’s hands applied to the patient’s body. A biomechanical assessment is carried out, and you will be asked to perform some simple movements to assess the mobility of your body. If necessary, neurological, orthopedic and other medical tests will be performed.
The osteopath will use manual examination using a highly developed sense of touch, to assess if there is strain, inflammation or restriction present. Once your problem has been diagnosed, it will be explained to you, together with your prognosis, and discussion of options for treatment.
Treatment and Advice:
Osteopathic treatment can use a wide variety of techniques, which may include working on muscles, ligaments and joints to help improve your function and decrease your pain.
You will receive treatment that is appropriate for you as an individual and will help you improve as quickly as possible.
We understand that some people may be nervous about treatment, and the osteopaths ensure a relaxed and supportive environment so that patients can voice any concerns they may have.
When ready it may be appropriate to deal with the problem using exercises as part of or all of the treatment (similar to physiotherapy). These may take the form of stretches, body weight or weight lifting exercises with a strong emphasis of core strength, correct form, flexibility and coordination strongly influenced by pilates based movements. These can be tailored to your requirements depending on your physical abilities and goals, and which you can perform at home or in the gym.