FAQs

What should I expect during my first Osteopathic visit?

Your first appointment will take approximately 60 minutes. Subsequent treatments are usually around 30 minutes. In your first session, we go through the following processes.

1: Medical history

Our Osteopaths will take your full medical history – including details of any past or current illnesses, accidents, x-rays or scans, medications, and surgical procedures.

Your personal information is handled in the strictest of confidence. 

2: Simple tests

After conducting your medical history, our Osteopaths will ask you to remove your outer clothing and perform a series of simple tests/movements to assess the mobility of your body and locate the problem areas. 

Osteopaths work under the principle that there may be a number of contributing factors to the symptoms. We will  therefore evaluate not only the area which is producing the symptoms but do a full assessment of your musculoskeletal system to make a diagnosis.

3: Diagnosis and treatment plan

We will discuss our diagnosis with you and a proposed treatment plan. You will have the opportunity to discuss anything with us that you are unsure about.

Depending on your problem, the treatment may involve a combination of gentle articulation techniques, manipulations of the spine, pelvis and extremities, soft tissue techniques and Cranial Osteopathy. 

How many Osteopathic treatments do I need?

After your initial assessment the Osteopath will have an idea of your prognosis, sometimes only a few treatments are necessary for a complete cure, with more complex and chronic problems it may take longer. Many of our patients take benefit from a regular treatment every few months to keep everything balanced and prevent problems, especially if your job is physically demanding, or very sedentary i.e. desk and computer work.

What should I wear to my Osteopath appointment?

Your Osteopath will need to fully assess your posture, spine and pelvis. We therefore recommend that you wear appropriate underwear. You can also wear leggings and shorts.

We have male and female Osteopaths available.

Are Osteopaths regulated?

The General Osteopathic Council (GOsC) is the statutory regulatory body for Osteopaths. All our Osteopaths are registered with the GOsC, and have to complete a programme of continual professional development each year. 

The Institute of Osteopathy (IO), formerly known as the British Osteopathic Association (BOA), is a voluntary organisation which some of our Osteopaths choose to belong to.

Can I have Osteopathy when pregnant?

Pregnancy is a great time to visit an Osteopath, because your body is changing so quickly.  

It is highly recommended that every pregnant woman visits an Osteopath, even if you have had no previous issues. 

Osteopathy helps to relieve the stresses and strains of pregnancy on your body. We can help to ease any pains and restrictions that may develop and ensure your ligaments are softer and easier to correct. 

Please note that for your peace of mind, we do not treat pregnant patients during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Be rest assured that Osteopathy is perfectly safe, and there is no evidence linking Osteopathy to miscarriage.

Is Osteopathy suitable for children and babies?

Osteopathy is suitable and safe for any age range, including babies and children. As young ones are smaller and more delicate, we adapt our treatment to suit your child.

Can I have Osteopathy after surgery?

Yes, in most cases, but if you are unsure contact us and you can speak to an Osteopath who can advise you.

Do you treat sports injuries?

Our Osteopaths are fully trained to treat and rehabilitate many sporting injuries. We are able to correct structural and compensatory problems arising from injury, which can reduce healing times and prevent futur

Is Osteopathy safe?

Osteopathy is a proven non-invasive and safe method of treatment and has helped millions of people over the past 100 years. It is safe for any age – from one day old to over one hundred years old. 

Osteopaths undertake a wide range of medical training to be able to recognise pain arising from diseased or damaged tissue. They can then assess whether Osteopathic treatment is the most effective and safe treatment for you, or whether you need to be referred to a GP for further tests.

Does Osteopathy hurt?

Osteopathic treatment should not hurt. We are mindful of your individual level of discomfort and work to make sure that your treatment is as relaxing and painless as possible. However if an area of your body is particularly inflamed/damaged it may become sore while we are working on treating you. 

You may occasionally feel a reaction to the treatment for a couple of days afterwards. This is especially in chronic cases where your body needs to adapt to a new way of moving, or in acute cases while the inflammation subsides.

Can I make a claim on my health insurance?

We strive to keep our prices moderate and affordable. We can provide you with receipts that you can use to claim against health insurance policies, but please note that we are not part of AXA or BUPA.

Along with many Osteopaths across the country, we withdrew from BUPA and AXA when they introduced a price cap for treatment at £30 (BUPA) and £35 (AXA). Our Osteopaths are highly experienced and we believe this pricing does not reflect the quality of our services or of Osteopaths across the country. 

Check with your insurer whether you need a GP referral letter.

Is there anywhere to park?

We have a small forecourt that you can use for your appointment. However, we kindly ask that you park considerately and do not leave your vehicle in the car park when you go shopping. Cars are parked at the owners’ risk. 

Can I bring my partner/child/baby to my appointment?

Yes, you are more than welcome to bring somebody with you – including young children. Our waiting area and treatment rooms are big enough to fit buggies, children, and partners.