What To Expect

On your first visit a full case history will be taken and you will be given an examination prior to any treatment being given. This initial consultation will last up to 40 minutes.

At the outset, the Osteopath or Physiotherapist will explain exactly what is going to happen and what you should expect. Any possible risk factors will also be explained to you. At all times you will have the opportunity to ask questions.

Consent - It's your choice:

When an Osteopath or Physiotherapist asks you to agree to any form of examination or treatment, remember you have a choice. You are always free to say no, or to ask for more information before you make up your mind.

Before the Osteopath or Physiotherapist examines you they must ask for your consent or permission. You may be asked to sign a form to consent for certain treatments/examinations. You or your Osteopath or Physiotherapist may request a chaperone during the treatment .

You may be asked to remove certain items of clothing (not your underwear) to enable them to assess your specific problem more thoroughly. Patients will be provided with gowns. The Osteopath or Physiotherapist will use a highly developed sense of touch, called palpation, to identify any points of weakness or excessive strain throughout the body in order to allow a plan of treatment to be made. Should any further investigations be required, such as X-Ray, this will be communicated to your GP.

Once the plan of treatment is made, the Osteopath or Physiotherapist will explain what this means and describe which techniques will be used and the possible side effects involved. You will be asked for your permission to proceed with treatment at this point. Following treatment you will be given advice on what to do at home and work until your next appointment.

Subsequent treatments will last up to 40 minutes. The total number of treatments required will depend on how you respond but the average is three treatments spread over a few weeks.

Children:

Children under 16 years old must be accompanied by a parent or guardian