What should I expect from my first consultation?

Your Osteopath will ask you a series of questions regarding your presenting problem and also detailed questions about your past medical history.  For a child this will also include questions regarding pregnancy, birth history and child’s development.

The patient is then examined; this will involve you getting undressed to your underwear.  You will be put through a series of movements before lying onto the treatment table.  You will be assessed further whilst lying down and your Osteopath will begin to explain what is causing the pain. If you are suitable for treatment, you will be treated accordingly.

The initial consultation will take up to 1 hour.

What should I wear for treatment?

In most cases the whole spine will be assessed.  Therefore, women will be comfortable in a bra and knickers.  Men should wear underpants or boxer shorts.

What should I bring?

A list of any medication you are taking and any x-ray or MRI reports.  You can get hold of a photocopy of these reports from your GP surgery.

Babies and children

The aim is to keep the baby or child relaxed and as still as possible.  It is useful to bring something to entertain your child e.g. a favourite toy (without wheels), finger foods i.e. raisins, a bottle or dummy.  Sometimes it is easier to treat a baby while it is breast-fed.

How many treatments will be required?

Adults

It depends on the type of injury you have.  A simple back sprain may take two treatments.  Disc problems can take up to ten treatments, as with chronic problems.  Your level of health, age and stress all have a bearing on how fast you body will heal.  Many people have unrealistic expectations and think they can carry on as normal.  Give your body a chance to heal – listen to the instructions given by your osteopath.  From our questionnaire of 200 patients the average number of treatment was four.

Babies and children

Like with adults it depends on the condition we are treating.  In small babies one treatment is sometimes enough.  Very strong strains will require up to ten treatments.  Some babies may need treatment on a regular basis i.e. monthly until they are nearly two years of age.  Your osteopath will be able to give you an idea of how many treatment sessions are required after the first appointment.

Should I expect any reactions following treatment?

Adults

You may feel some soreness following treatment, especially if you have not had treatment before.  This may last up to 48 hours.  If your symptoms become increasingly worse or you are concerned about your symptoms, please contact us.

Babies and children

Normally your child will be quite relaxed following a treatment and may be sleepy.  However, sometimes the presenting problem can appear worse.  This will be temporary and could last 24 -48 hours following treatment.  If you are in doubt always phone and check with your osteopath.

What should I do after treatment?

Treatment relaxes your muscles and loosens your joints so it is not advisable to do anything strenuous for roughly 24 hours post-treatment.  Excessive housework, gardening, carrying, heavy lifting, sport or shopping would be examples of strenuous activity.  If your job involves prolonged sitting, then it is important that you get up and walk around for a few minutes every 20-30 minutes.