What happens during your first visit

On your first visit, a full case history is taken, in which the presenting complaint(s) and past injuries are discussed and recorded. A detailed medical history is also taken including important information about your lifestyle and diet.

An examination is then carried out in which the overall posture is observed and active and passive movements are performed, so that biomechanical assessments can be made. You may be required to remove certain items of clothing to allow for examination and treatment. Blood pressure, neurological testing (e.g. Reflexes) or other additional tests may also be carried out where indicated. The osteopath will examine the health of the joints, tissues and ligaments using their hands and a highly developed sense of touch called palpation.

Following the examination, the osteopath will discuss the findings of the examination with you. If osteopathy is an appropriate form of treatment, the osteopath will explain the nature of the treatment and the number of sessions required to treat the diagnosed condition. If the osteopath feels that further information is required she may request further investigations to be carried out with the co-operation of your G.P., with your permission.

Depending on your condition and with your consent, treatment may consist of one or more of the following approaches:

• Muscle resistance techniques to release muscle tension.
• Rhythmic articulation and joint manipulation to restore joint mobility.
• Massage and pumping to improve fluid dynamics and tissue health.
• Stretching to restore normal tissue length and structure.
• Cranial Technique

You may also be given exercises to do at home, and, in some cases, advice may be given on posture and lifestyle considerations thought to be contributing to your condition. Osteopathy promotes your body’s ability to self-heal and the exercises and advice are an important part of this process.

Typically, we would expect to see considerable improvement within two to six treatments, although sometimes a single treatment is sufficient. However, your treatment plan is unique to you, and symptom resolution will depend on the nature of your condition and how you respond to treatment. You should feel free to ask questions about your diagnosis and treatment plan at any time.

Because of the physical nature of the treatment, it is not unusual to sometimes feel sore in the first 24-48 hours after treatment. Your osteopath will explain any likely reactions that you could expect. If you have any concerns it is important to contact the osteopath and ask their advice. It may require more than one visit before your problem is resolved. The osteopath will review your progress at each subsequent visit and seek your consent to any changes to your treatment plan.

If you would feel more comfortable having a chaperone, you are more than welcome to bring along a friend or family member.