Question 1

How long does an appointment last?

Accepted Answer

Your first appointment will last approximately 1 hour, during which time your Osteopath will take a full case history, examine you, give you a diagnosis and suggest a treatment plan. With your consent, you will then be treated.
 
Follow-up appointments last approximately 30 minutes and will include an update on how you have been since your previous appointment as well as further treatment.

Question 2

What will happen on my first visit?

Accepted Answer

On your first visit, your osteopath will take a case history, assess you physically and then treat you. This will be done with ongoing discussion between you and your osteopath.

Question 3

How many treatments will I need?

Accepted Answer

That will depend on what the problem is and how well your body responds to treatment. This will be discussed with you.
 
Usually one follow-up will be suggested to start with and a decision will be made at that point if a further appointment is needed.
 
The aim is to diagnose and resolve your problem in as few treatments as possible.

Question 4

Do I have to get undressed?

Accepted Answer

No, but wearing loose, comfortable clothing makes assessment and treatment much easier for your Osteopath. Please choose soft, stretchy materials that do not include too many zips, buttons or other decorations.
 
Your Osteopath may ask you to remove your outer layers of clothing and your shoes in order to better assess and treat you.

Question 5

Do Osteopaths only treat backs?

Accepted Answer

No! We treat all joints from head to toe.

Question 6

Is Osteopathy for everyone?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Osteopathy is suitable for people of all ages.
 
However, your Osteopath will ask a lot of questions to make sure that your problem is something that osteopathy can help with. If your Osteopath thinks that you need to be seen by a doctor or other medical professional, s/he will recommend that you do so before continuing with osteopathic treatment.

Question 7

Do I need a referral to see an Osteopath?

Accepted Answer

No. You can visit an Osteopath without being referred by your doctor or any other medical professional.

FAQ