How do we treat?
On the first visit a thorough case history will be taken including medical history and previous injuries or illnesses. You will be asked to dress down to your underwear so that the osteopath can carry out an examination of the movements of your spine and joints. This will allow the osteopath to diagnose your pain or dysfunction and assess if you are safe to treat. Chaperones are welcome if you would feel more comfortable, and are necessary if the patient is under 18. Osteopaths treat with a range of techniques from soft tissue massage to stronger techniques of articulation and mobilisation.
Osteopathy is recognised by the medical profession and in some cases you can be referred directly to an osteopath by your GP. If you are unsure about visiting an Osteopath you can check with your GP first, although this is not necessary
Professionalism and safety:
An Osteopath must study for 4 to 5 years for a degree similar to a medical degree, with more emphasis on anatomy and musculoskeletal medicine. By law they must register with the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC). The British Medical Association’s guidance for GP’s states that doctors can safely refer patients to Osteopaths.