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FAQs

What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a system of diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of medical conditions. It works with the structure and function of the body, and is based on the principle that the well-being of an individual depends on the skeleton, muscles, ligaments and connective tissues functioning smoothly together.

How long do appointments last?

45 minutes. During initial appointments, I need to take yours or your child’s full medical history. Some of the questions may not feel relevant to your current concern, but they are very important pieces of information that I need to collate, to build up the story of your body. Sometimes you will find that a historical injury can be the cause of your discomfort today.

After this, I will carry out standard tests to understand what is going on
with your body, and also more importantly, rule out any serious conditions that may warrant further investigation

What should I wear?

For you - You may have to undress for treatments but if you are uncomfortable with this, I suggest that you wear something light and loose fitting such as a tracksuit or something similar.
For your child - I need to see a child’s whole back and spine and examine their gait and so they may need to undress down to their underwear.
Teenagers – May wish to wear shorts and girls may also prefer to wear a crop top
Babies - I may need to see a baby or child’s whole body. So expect your baby to be undressed down to their nappy, but I may also do a quick check of their hip mobility with their nappy off. So something like a baby-gro which is easy to take on and off is ideal.

Is it going to hurt?

Depending on why you are coming some, but only some, treatments will hurt initially and you will probably feel more uncomfortable than ”hurt”. You may also feel slightly drowsy or sleepy initially – but don’t worry this means the treatments are working well.

How many treatments will I need?

Every problem and patient is different and the number of treatments will be discussed during the first visit, but sometimes I prefer to wait and see how you react and feel after the first session before deciding if and when, for you to return.

The number of treatments needed depends on your condition. For instance if you have chronic low back pain, you may need several treatments to support the body allowing for change that has been dysfunctional for a long period.

For acute pain, one or two treatments may be enough.

Will I be sore afterwards?

Depending on your treatment you may feel sore and little achy for about 24-48 hours after a treatment. Rest is always recommended if possible.
And of course, if you are uncomfortable or not quite happy with any aspect of your treatment please make sure to tell me.
Babies react differently to treatment. I often find that babies are very relaxed and sleep well. But some babies may be unsettled after treatment for a short while, usually just for 24 hours. If a child has an infection, an osteopathy treatment may ‘bring it out’ – a mild fever may worsen but break more quickly than normal, teething symptoms may worsen for 24 hours. In a tiny percentage of patients, treatment may aggravate problems or exacerbate an old injury site or adjacent area that is not functioning or moving very well.
If symptoms do not improve after 24-48 hours or get much worse, please call me. Don’t wait until the next appointment. I will advise you or bring your appointment forward if necessary.

Aftercare Advice -

I suggest to all my patients to try and take it as easy as possible after a session. I know we all work very hard and some of us have quite a few little ones to look after, but if you can reduce your activities on the day of treatment, and also the day after, this will allow your body the time to reset and get the optimal results desired - it really is my golden
piece of advice beyond any exercise prescription.

Can I have osteopathy if I am pregnant?

Yes, osteopathy is suitable for women during pregnancy and entirely safe. Many expecting mums experience low back, or pelvic pain during the course of their pregnancy. Osteopathy is often used to alleviate the discomfort of pain induced by the changing physiology that comes with pregnancy. There is currently no research to suggest manipulation or osteopathic treatment harms your baby at any point, treatment
can commence gently from the 12th week. I have helped many mums to a more comfortable last trimester and, have helped them again after baby has been born, as well as checking how the newborn baby is too.

Is osteopathy suitable for babies and young children?

Yes, osteopathy especially is suitable for babies and children, right from birth and is absolutely safe.

Can an osteopath help with anxiety?

Osteopathy works in combination to other mental health services to help to reduce anxiety and its impact on the body. Treatment will typically involve addressing the body's overactive nervous system and the secondary flow on effects such as tight muscles, headaches, digestive issues and so on