Note beforehand
Osteopathy is a manual system of diagnosis and treatment and we always use the gentlest method that will be effective for your condition. A range of different techniques can be used in your treatment, as outlined on our About Osteopathy page, and your Practitioner will discuss all the options with you thoroughly before beginning treatment.
Your first session
When you arrive you will be given a form to read over and sign. It contains the same information as is set out below. In the case of persons under the age of 18, a parent or guardian will also be asked to sign. This is so you know what to expect and will be comfortable with regards to our procedures.
To begin with, your Osteopath will take a full medical case history. He or she will ask about your main problem, but also about everything else concerning your health, past and present. Please bring with you a list of all medications you are currently taking and any you have recently discontinued, together with any medical letters and reports of scans and x-rays.
This is done so that we can understand your trouble but also so that we know when we should refer you to another practitioner, such as a doctor, dentist or perhaps a masseur or an acupuncturist. Your first session is an opportunity for you to ask any questions you have about the treatment (although of course, you are welcome to ask questions at any time). We allow at least 45 minutes for a first consultation and 30 minutes for subsequent visits.
After this initial consultation, you will be asked to undress, usually down to your underwear, so that you can be examined. A screen is provided for dressing and undressing, but Alan will also ask if you would like them to leave the room at these times. Your wishes will be respected if you don’t want to remove your clothing, but this can limit how much we can help you. Occasionally people choose to wear shorts and a t-shirt, or a swimsuit top. We will always respect your feelings; please don’t hesitate to tell Alan if you have any concerns.
If you wish, you are welcome to bring a friend or family member with you as a chaperone. Please note that all young persons under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult in the treatment room.
After we have examined you standing, you will be asked to lie down on the couch for further checks and treatment. The treatment room is always warm and comfortable, but you will be offered a cotton blanket to cover you.
We will always explain what we are doing and why, and will seek your consent for any procedure(s) we deem necessary. It is your right to stop us doing anything with which you are unhappy at any time. We have several ways of getting results and we will try to work according to your preferences. You are welcome to ask any questions you may have, at any time during your visits.