Your Visit to the Clinic
Your initial appointment will normally last about an hour and will always commence with a detailed case history. You will be asked about your presenting ailment as well as your general health and personal/family medical background. This consultation is an essential part in diagnosing and managing your condition.
An examination will be carried out, along with a general postural assessment. This may involve undressing down to your underwear in order for the osteopath to fully assess your posture and muscle tone. Some patients prefer to wear shorts and a vest top. When necessary we have towels and blankets to keep you covered or warm.
What happens at your appointment?
After a full case history is taken there is an examination including movement analysis of your spine and/or other joints. Sometimes more thorough neurological, vascular, respiratory or abdominal testing may also be performed to ensure the best diagnosis can be made.
A suitable treatment plan can then be formulated and explained to you and with your consent, treatment will be carried out. The treatment used will always take into account the patient’s presenting complaint, their degree of pain, age and state of health. All children under the age of 16 must have a parent or guardian present.
A range of techniques can be used from gentle cranial work, soft tissue release, rhythmic or deep soft tissue massage, joint articulation, or the more direct structural manipulations, when a joint goes ‘click’. The overall aim is to reduce pain and improve overall biomechanics by freeing up restrictions and allowing the body to function optimally. The number of treatments will vary depending on the patient and the condition. This will be discussed with you at your first appointment.
We pride ourselves on taking our time to explain what is going on and what we we can do for you to provide the best bespoke package money can buy. We promote the concept of once better, come and see us for regular MOTs to improve your overall health and vitality or just to keep you moving and feeling better. This can be once a month or whenever you feel you are ‘seizing up’. This is why over the past 30 years many of Krystyna’s patients refer to us as ‘ the body mechanics’. Come and see if we can help.
We provide ample free on-site parking, as well as a lockable buggy/bicycle shelter for those arriving for appointments.
Do I need a referral from my GP?
No, Osteopaths are primary health care practitioners and a GP referral is not required. You may need to visit your GP beforehand if your insurance company stipulates so. Please check with your own insurance provider beforehand.
