FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
About Osteopathy
What is Osteopathy?
What can Osteopathy treat?
Is Osteopathy safe?
Yes, Osteopathy is regarded as being very safe. Osteopathy has one of the best safety records of any medically related profession. Osteopaths are trained to recognise a wide range of conditions and when not appropriate to treat with osteopathy, a referral to another medical professional can be made if required. We are registered and regulated by the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC) and are governed by the Osteopaths Act (1993) which provides regulation in a similar manner to those in place for doctors and dentists.
On a first consultation the Osteopath will take a case history that will include questions about general patient health, medical history and present complaint. This is to ensure that your complaint is suitable for osteopathic treatment and this can be undertaken safely.
What form does the treatment take?
Does Osteopathy hurt?
Are there any side effects?
How long do appointments last?
How much does it cost?
Please visit our Fees Page for a list of current rates.
N.B. Unlike some practices we do not charge more for the initial consultation, and we do not ask patients to book and pay for a course of treatment in advance.
First Visit
Should I bring anything?
What happens when I first see the Osteopath?
How long does the first consultation take?
Can I bring someone with me?
How many treatment sessions will I need?
This depends on many factors including your specific condition, general health, age, diet, lifestyle and complying to exercises and stretches. Most patients feel benefit from the first couple of visits, and subsequent treatments are used to tackle the root cause and prevent re-occurrence. The treatments may then gradually be spaced out to provide long lasting relief.
Unlike some professions, Osteopaths will examine your condition before and after every treatment, and will then discuss when to book in again. There will be no pressure to ‘bulk buy’ treatments, and your prognosis will be discussed after every treatment.
General Questions
Do you offer home visits?
Can I be referred by a Doctor or my GP?
Can medical insurance be used to cover my treatment?
Many private health insurance policies provide cover for osteopathic treatment. It may be possible to claim for a course of treatment but you should check in advance with your insurance company before starting. In order to confirm the available level of cover you may also need to see your GP before commencing treatment. Our reception team will be glad to advise.
How can I make an appointment?
We only accept appointments that are confirmed by phone or made at our premises. You may call us weekdays between 8.45am and 6pm on 01536 512927.
Outside of these hours you can leave a message on our answer phone or fill in the Appointment Request Form on this website – we will then call you back to confirm. N.B. No appointments will be accepted unless we confirm them verbally.