What is Osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a system of diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of medical conditions.
It works with the structure and function of the body and is based on the principle that the well-being of an individual depends on the skeleton, muscles, ligaments and connective tissues functioning smoothly together.
To an osteopath, for your body to work well, its structure must also work well. Osteopaths work to restore your body to a state of balance, where possible without the use of drugs or surgery.
Osteopaths use physical manipulation, stretching and massage to increase the mobility of joints, to relieve muscle tension, to enhance the blood and nerve supply to tissues, and to help your body’s own healing mechanisms.
They may also provide advice on posture and exercise to aid recovery, promote health and prevent symptoms recurring.
What you can expect when having osteopathy
Listening and examining
Osteopathy is a patient-centred system of healthcare. A first appointment generally lasts about 30 minutes to allow Sarah adequate time to:
- Listen and ask questions about your problem, your general health, other medical care you are receiving or medication you are taking and record this in your case notes. The information you provide will be confidential.
- Examine you properly. It is likely that Sarah will ask you to remove some of your clothing. Tell her if you are uncomfortable about this. You should expect privacy to undress and a gown or towel should be provided. You can ask a friend or relative to accompany you and be present throughout your treatment.
- Ask you to make simple movements and stretches to observe your posture and mobility. Because of the body’s structure, pain or stiffness you are experiencing in one part may be linked to a problem elsewhere.
- Examine the health of the joints, tissues and ligaments using her hands and a highly developed sense of touch called palpation.
Sarah will also check for signs of serious conditions that should be referred to your GP. She will provide you with a letter explaining what she believes to be the problem.
Diagnosis and treatment
Osteopathy specialises in the diagnosis, management, treatment and prevention of musculoskeletal and other related disorders.
Sarah will give you a clear explanation of what she finds (her diagnosis) and discuss a treatment plan that is suitable for you.
She will explain the benefits and any risks of the treatment she is recommending. It is important to understand and agree what the treatment can achieve and the likely number of sessions needed for a noticeable improvement in how you feel.
Treatment is hands-on and involves skilled manipulation of the spine and joints and massage of soft tissues.
Sarah will explain what she is doing and will always ask your permission to treat you (known as consent).
Please ask questions at any time if you are unsure what you have been told or if you have any concerns.
Sarah may offer self-help measures and advice on exercise to assist your recovery, prevent recurrence or worsening of your symptoms.
How much does it cost?
Most people visit an osteopath as a private patient and pay for their own treatment.
The initial consultation fee with Sarah is £45 for the first session and the fee for subsequent sessions with Sarah is £45.
If you have private health insurance it may be possible to claim for your treatment. You will need to ask your insurance company about the available level of cover and whether you need to be referred by your GP or a specialist.
Ongoing care
Because of the physical nature of the treatment it is not unusual to sometimes feel sore in the first 24–48 hours after treatment. Sarah will explain any likely reactions that you could expect. If you have any concerns it is important to contact Sarah and ask her advice.
It may require more than one visit before your problem is resolved. Sarah will review your progress at each subsequent visit and seek your consent to any changes to your treatment plan.
Is referral from a doctor necessary?
Most patients ‘self refer’ to an osteopath for treatment.
Although referral by a GP is not necessary you are encouraged to keep your GP fully informed, in order that your medical records are current and complete. This will ensure you receive the best possible care from both health professionals.
With your permission, Sarah may send a report to your GP with details of your condition and treatment.
You can also request a letter for your employer if this is helpful.