The Treatment Process

 

Osteopathy is a form of manual therapy. In other words Osteopaths use their hands to make you feel better. Every different Osteopath you see is likely to treat you in a subtly different way, although there are certain things you can expect as common principle.

 

 

Case History


Osteopaths take a detailed case history. We like to know as much as possible about you. I will ask questions about your current complaint and any previous problems you may have had. I will want to know what you do, including any sports and hobbies you have now or in the past, this helps me to build a picture of the physical activities your body has experienced. I also need to know about your general health, your medical and surgical histories and any medications you use. This allows me to be confident that you are suitable for Osteopathic treatment, ensuring your safety. There will also be an opportunity for you to discuss any other elements that you feel are contributing to your condition.

 

 

Examination


In order to establish a diagnosis I will need to look at the way you are put together and the way you move. This helps me to assess the general health of your body

and to identify any areas of restriction that may exist. Depending on your case, I may ask you to remove items of clothing in order that I can observe your posture, musculature and movement more clearly. However, this will be only if you are comfortable doing so. This also allows better access to your muscles and joints during the treatment. Whilst desirable, it is not essential, so please make me aware if you would feel uncomfortable. Bearing this in mind, please wear appropriate, well fitting underwear.

 

 

Diagnosis


Based upon my findings I will discuss your diagnosis with you. I believe the more informed you are about your complaint, the better we can manage it. At this stage I will also discuss with you the likely treatment plan. Initially, it can be hard to ascertain how many treatments you will need so I will usually wait until subsequent visits to estimate a time scale for treatments. Progress depends on many factors; how you respond to treatment, what other demands you have upon you, like work, and upon completion of supportive exercises. Occasionally only one session is needed. In each case I will let you know accordingly.