What can I expect on my first appointment?

On your first visit a full and strictly confidential medical history will be taken. This will include questions about your general health and lifestyle as well as the problem for which you are seeking treatment.

An osteopathic examination and postural assessment will be carried out. For this you will be asked to remove your outer clothes so that your overall posture and spine can be assessed and areas of tenderness, stiffness or strain identified. Please wear underwear that you are comfortable in, or bring a pair of shorts if you prefer. Gowns are available on request. You may be asked to perform some simple movements.

The in-depth medical history is to ensure that your complaint is suitable for osteopathic treatment. Having made a diagnosis, your osteopath will discuss this with you before moving on to treatment. Your treatment plan may include self-help strategies for pain relief as well as stretching and strengthening exercises if appropriate.