FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: IS OSTEOPATHY FOR ME?
A: Osteopathy is based on the principle that the well-being of a person is related to the bones, ligaments, muscles and connective tissues working together in harmony. Osteopathy is an effective drug free therapy for many problems, and can benefit the young and old. We take the time to understand you and identify key factors relevant to your problem, then treat using safe and effective techniques. Our aim is to make a difference to your problem and its impact on your life.
Q: WHAT DO OSTEOPATHS TREAT? IS OSTEOPATHY JUST FOR BACKS?
A: Osteopaths can treat or provide relief for many conditions. We work with the structure and function of the body to help your body achieve the perfect healing environment. Ultimately this means we could provide treatment for many conditions. However, as regulated healthcare professionals, it is important to recognise our limitations in treatment. We refer to scientific research to inform or practices on the efficacy of treatments, this is referred to as an evidence based approach or evidence based medicine and is an approach used thoughout all healthcare professionals.
It is recognised, with high quality research, that Osteopathy can provide effective treatment for the following:
- generalised aches and pains,
- joint pains including hip and knee pain from osteoarthritis as an adjunct to core osteoarthritis treatments and exercise
- arthritic pain,
- general, acute & chronic backache, back pain (not arising from injury or accident)
- uncomplicated mechanical neck pain (as opposed to neck pain following injury i.e. whiplash)
- headache arising from the neck (cervicogenic) / migraine prevention
- frozen shoulder/ shoulder and elbow pain/ tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) arising from associated musculoskeletal conditions of the back and neck, but not isolated occurrences
- circulatory problems,
- cramp,
- digestion problems,
- joint pains, lumbago,
- sciatica,
- muscle spasms,
- neuralgia,
- fibromyalgia,
- inability to relax,
- rheumatic pain,
- minor sports injuries and tensions
Q: HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO SEE AN OSTEOPATH?
A: Initial consult: £60. Follow up treatments: £50.
Please see our prices page for details on discounts and concessions.
Q: WHAT IS AN OSTEOPATHIC CONSULTATION AND HOW DOES IT DIFFER FROM FOLLOW UP TREATMENTS?
A: An Osteopathic Consultation is carried out at your first visit to our clinic in Bristol. Its our chance to get to know information about you, your medical history, and to examine your body. this gives us insight into what is going on in your body. The process usually takes 45 minutes and your Osteopath will make sure you feel comfortable and at ease through every step. We always begin treatments during the Consultation.
A consultation Involves:
- a detailed case history where we find out all about you, and your medical history.
- a thorough medical examination (looking at your joints, muscles, and nervous system).
- Diagnosis of problem or summary of complaint.
- a formation of a treatment plan (how we plan to get you to your peak).
- Treatment (soft tissue and deep tissue massage, joint mobilisation, joint manipulation acupuncture, k taping).
FOLLOW UP TREATMENTS USUALLY LAST 30 MINUTES AND INVOLVE:
- History since we last saw you.
- Re-examination and confirm diagnosis.
- Treatment.
Q: WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM AN INITIAL CONSULTATION?
The initial consult usually takes around 45 minutes. This time is used to; take a detailed case history of your complaint or problem, gain some insight into your past medical history, and to undersand your social and occupational demands and any goals you wish to gain from your treatment.
After completing a case history we physically examine your presenting issues to form a diagnosis and treat accordingly.
During examination and treatmeant we may ask you to remove certain items of clothing to allow for examination and to expose areas to treat. If you have any specific issues with this please contact me before hand.
Q: WHAT CLOTHING SHALL I WEAR?
A: Our treatments involve soft tissue and deep tissue massage techniques so loose fitting and comfortable clothing is reccomended. leggings or shorts are fine and t-shirt or vest type top. Whilst we want you to feel comfortable, we may sometimes ask you to remove certain items of clothing. This is to allow for examination and to expose areas that need treating. If you are not comfortable with this or have any specific issues then please contact us before hand as we still may be able to help.