Does an osteopath only treat backs?

Osteopathy works well for all types of musculoskeletal problems, including arthritic problems, sciatica, ‘frozen shoulder’, joint pain and sports injuries. It can also be helpful for other complaints such as circulatory problems, neuralgia, digestion problems and tension. If you are unsure whether Osteopathy would be beneficial, please call the practice. We will be happy to discuss whether a consultation would be appropriate.

How many treatments will I need?

The amount of treatment generally required depends on a large number of factors such as how longstanding the problem is, your age (generally speaking the older we get the slower we heal), and whether the injury involves, for instance, ligaments or discs, which are slower to heal, or muscle that is generally quicker. Our clinic prides itself on minimising the amount of treatment needed, helped by there being a variety of practitioners all with their own special interests.

Can I use my Private Healthcare Policy?

Osteopathy is now accepted by most, if not all, private health insurers and we are accredited by many of them including, HSA, WPA and Aviva. If requested, we will be happy to issue receipts for treatments against any potential claim. Our policy is for you to pay us and then claim back from your insurance company. As all policies are different phone your private health insurer before your first consultation with us to check whether, for instance, you need a policy/authorisation number or to be referred by your GP.

Do you issue off work certificates?

Yes we do if appropriate. The fitness to work certificate, provided by the General Osteopathic Council, is accepted by employers along with form SC1 (supplied by the clinic), if you are self employed, employed, unemployed or non-employed for benefit purposes.

Do I need to take my clothes off?

Because the Osteopath or Massage Therapist will need to examine not only the area in which the problem is occurring but also surrounding areas of the body, you would normally be expected to remove an appropriate amount of clothing but always asked to keep your underwear on. Shorts can be worn and for women a cropped top or something similar would be fine.

Are my notes kept confidentially?

Everything recorded about your case is strictly confidential, your notes are kept safely under the GDPR compliance.

Do you have disabled access?

Yes, we have full facilities for the disabled.

Will you speak to my GP about my case?

Due to your notes being confidential we would only speak to your GP with your written consent.

What does the first consultation involve?

The first consultation will take between 45 minutes and an hour. The osteopath will want to know what type of problem you are experiencing and a thorough medical history will be taken, to include details of your general health, previous illnesses, lifestyle and family medical history. A physical assessment will be conducted and for this it may be necessary to undress down to your underwear. You will normally be taken through a range of movements and a detailed examination of joint function and individual tissues will be performed. More specific clinical tests may also be done. After the examination the osteopath will explain the findings and if appropriate a suitable course of treatment will be prescribed. A treatment is usually included in the cost of the first consultation.  

Can I bring someone with me?

You are welcome to bring someone with you for all or part of your consultation. Children under the age of 16 must always be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Does it matter who I see?

The Osteopaths and Sports Therapist work together to ensure that you are treated by the most appropriate practitioner for your particular condition. If you are unsure who you should consult, please do call us and we would be happy to advise you.

What is the difference between Medical and Traditional Acupuncture? 

Medical acupuncture is a therapeutic modality involving the insertion of fine needles; it is an adaptation of Chinese acupuncture using current knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology and the principles of evidence based medicine.

Extracted from the British Medical Acupuncture Society website 

Traditional acupuncture is a healthcare system based on ancient principles which go back nearly two thousand years. It has a very positive model of good health and function and looks at pain and illness as signs that the body is out of balance. The overall aim of acupuncture treatment is to restore the body's equilibrium.

Extracted from the British Acupuncture Council website