Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about what to expect from their appointments, whether they’ve seen an osteopath before or not. Every patient is different, so every appointment is personalized, but read on for some general FAQs and their answers.
If your question is not answered below, please get in touch.
FAQ
Most frequent questions and answers
You can expect to be asked to dress down to your underwear, so please choose underwear that you feel comfortable in. A close fitting sports bra or cycling shorts may help here.
It’s not uncommon to feel some soreness for a day or two after treatment, and we can advise ways to manage this. More serious side effects are rare: osteopathy is a safe and gentle therapy.
Manipulations are generally not uncomfortable, but occasionally they can be. Your osteopath will discuss this risk with you before carrying out any manipulations. Some people feel some soreness for a day or two after manipulations, but typically report it to be manageable.
You are not obliged to agree to manipulations, and we have plenty of other techniques if you would prefer not to.
Osteopaths are qualified to help manage the symptoms of arthritis and rheumatoid conditions. However, we cannot cure them.
Through osteopathic management, we can also work to minimise secondary effects of these conditions. An example of this would be back pain after changes in posture due to knee arthritis.
Your osteopath will also offer longer term self-management strategies, such as exercises tailored for you.
Some problems are best managed little and often. For recurrent issues, it’s certainly not a bad idea to come for regular appointments, but we understand that some people prefer to only have treatment when they have symptoms.
Osteopathy is a hands-on, drug free therapy. We use massage, manipulation, and joint mobilisation techniques to improve the function of joints and soft tissues. Avin is also qualified in medical acupuncture, so may perform both where appropriate.
Manipulation is a very small movement, and its role is to improve local function, not put something back in. Spinal joints do not come out of place, but they can be irritated or inflamed.
Similarly, discs do not become displaced either, so manipulations do not put them back in. They may bulge, but they will always remain attached to the bones above and below themselves.
Most of our patients find that their symptoms have resolved within 4-6 treatments. We aim to see positive results within 2-4 sessions. However, every patient is different, and some conditions take longer to get under control. Your osteopath will discuss your prognosis during your appointment.
All UK osteopaths must register with the General Osteopathic Council by law. In order to do so, they must have completed a recognised qualification, taken out professional insurance, and complete ongoing CPD.
You should check the details of your policy, but we are registered with most major health insurers. Please be aware that some policies will only pay out if you have sought authorisation before starting treatment.
Osteopaths are primary healthcare practitioners, so you do not need a referral. We are able to assess, diagnose, and treat. We will also refer back to your GP where further investigation is appropriate: osteopathy is complementary, not alternative.
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