Osteopathy is gentle, effective and drug free.

An Osteopath treats the whole individual assessing all the causes of pain and dysfunction.

This approach results in long term improvement of neck, back and joint pain, postural problems and work strain.

Your first appointment will normally last an hour. This allows plenty of time for a full case history to be taken, including details of the problem you've come with, your past medical history and other aspects of your lifestyle and work.

The case history helps me to screen you for any symptoms that may need to be referred to your doctor and provides in-depth information on your current problem and how it may have occurred (very important in helping you to prevent a recurrence).

The questions will be similar to ones you may have been asked by your doctor in the past, but I am always happy to explain why a particular piece of information is needed.

Once your case history has been taken, I will usually need to carry out a physical examination. Depending on where your symptoms are, this will usually involve you dressing down to your underwear (bra and pants or shorts for ladies, pants or shorts for men) so a thorough investigation of the painful area can be carried out.

I understand that this can feel embarrassing to some people, so please do let me know if you are worried. You are very welcome to bring shorts and a vest to change into and plenty of towels are provided to cover up with. A private changing area is available.

If for cultural or any other reasons you don't feel comfortable dressing down, please don't let that put you off coming for treatment. It may be possible to treat you fully clothed depending on the nature of the problem.

The examination will usually involve putting the affected body part through a number of movements and physical tests. I am easily able to adapt these to your pain level, so you will not be asked to do anything that is beyond your body's limits.

Treatment Plan
As a result of the case history and physical examination, I will be able to explain my diagnosis of your condition to you and give you an idea of how long it is likely to take to improve. At this stage, I will also talk you through the proposed treatment plan (which will be adapted to your particular symptoms and lifestyle). You will be given an opportunity to ask all questions you might have about the proposed treatment, before agreeing a way forward that you are happy with.

The treatment given by osteopaths can involve a wide range of techniques, including massage, stretches, exercises, manipulations, articulations and techniques to improve circulation. I may use some or all of these, depending on your particular condition, medical history and age. I am also able to give you advice on exercises and techniques you can use at home to hasten your recovery and prevent recurrence.

Follow up treatments will follow a similar pattern, but will be shorter (around 30 minutes) as I will only need to ask you for a brief update on your case history. I am always very happy to answer your questions about the progress of the treatment and to support you in finding ways to take care of your body that fit in with your lifestyle. If you have any queries or questions about Osteopathy or my approach before booking an appointment, please do not hesitate to contact me, see the contact details below.