What happens on my first visit?
Your first consultation is similar to a consultation with your family doctor. Your osteopath will need to know the nature of your complaint, the site and type of your pain or other symptoms and how and when the symptoms developed. We will need to know whether you have had a previous history of this, or any similar complaint and any examinations or treatments you have had in the past. We will also need details of your past medical history including any serious illnesses, accidents, including road accidents, broken bones or operations you have had in your whole life. Some people find it helpful to jot down the history of the problem in date order, noting any treatment or X-rays they may have had. It might be helpful to bring a list of any medication you are taking, or if you are not sure, bring the prescription with you.
After the consultation, we will take the time to talk through your problem with you. We should be able to give you then an idea of what we might be able to do for you, unless further tests are necessary.
What should I wear?
When we need to examine your spine, gentlemen please wear comfortable underpants or boxer shorts and ladies please wear a back-fastening bra and pants. It is usually acceptable for you to keep tights on as well if you wish, but please do not wear an all-in-one under-garment or elastic girdle. If your condition is very painful and it is difficult to bend it may be advisable to wear slip-on shoes and easily removable garments.
Teenagers and those who feel anxious may prefer to bring a light pair of shorts and/or T shirt to change into, but not denim please!
For later treatments it may not be necessary to undress; your osteopath will advise you. At these times soft clothes such as shorts, leggings, soft slacks or trousers or a track suit are best. A loose fitting skirt and blouse is also suitable. Jeans and cords have very hard seams, so will probably have to be taken off.
Please dress babies and children in easily removable garments as they can become hot and uncomfortable during treatment.
What should I do after treatment?
After treatment it is best to avoid strenuous activity for at least two days, so please do not plan to do heavy shopping, housework, lifting or strong exercise. Do not try to "work the pain off". As a general rule, if it hurts don't do it. If you have any specific queries please do not hesitate to ask your osteopath for advice. If you are concerned about anything after treatment please telephone the practice.
What does treatment feel like?
Osteopathic treatment is gentle and does not have to cause pain or discomfort. If you find that a particular treatment is uncomfortable please tell your osteopath because there is an enormous range of techniques from which to select and usually one can be found which is both comfortable and effective. Some approaches are so soothing that the strongest sensation is of warmth, relaxation and tension being drawn out of the body. Some patients even fall asleep.
Is it safe?
Osteopathic treatment works with the body's health and repair mechanisms, so is a safe and natural approach to health care.
Osteopathy is now a recognized health profession. The Osteopaths Act, 1993, provides for the profession to regulate itself under the law for the protection of the public. The profession is now organized and run in much the same way as the medical profession.
Our Policy
You may change your osteopath without question if you wish. Please don't hesitate to say so. However, please try not to chop and change osteopaths frequently during a course of treatment as this will confuse your treatment plan and may not be best for you.
This practice is committed to continued development and training. The osteopaths in the practice meet regularly to discuss patients and review our patient care. At regular intervals also the osteopaths are away on study courses. From time to time the osteopaths may see patients together and also occasionally another osteopath or medical professional may sit in as well. We ask for your help in the continuing education of our next generation of practitioners. You will always be asked beforehand and you at fully entitled to ask to be seen alone if you wish.
If you have any suggestions how we may improve our service, or if you experience any difficulties or have any complaints, please ask to speak either to Mr. Handoll or Stella Synan, the Practice Manager. We want to hear from you.
