Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a primary care profession, focusing on the diagnosis, treatment, prevention and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal disorders, and the effects of these conditions on patients’ general health. 

Using many of the diagnostic procedures applied in conventional medical assessment, osteopaths seek to restore the optimal functioning of the body, 

Osteopaths’ patient-centred approach to health and well-being means they consider symptoms in the context of the patient’s full medical history, as well as their lifestyle and personal circumstances. This holistic approach ensures that all treatment is tailored to the individual patient.

Osteopathy is part of the Allied Health Professions in the UK and all Osteopaths are registered and regulated by the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC). 

What should I expect at my initial consultation?

Your initial consultation will usually last up to an hour and will be typically broken down into 4 phases: 

Questions about Your Symptoms, Medical History & Lifestyle: This is very important as it helps your osteopath make an accurate diagnosis. 

Physical Assessment: The Osteopath will then ask your consent to go on to conduct a physical assessment. Here, you may be asked to dress down depending on the problem area. Specifically, they will examine areas of the body causing discomfort as well as palpating the muscles and joints.  In addition, other potential problems areas which could be contributing to the issue may also be identified.   

Diagnosis / Prognosis: The Osteopath will then go onto to explain their diagnosis to you and their professional opinion on it. Moreover, they will discuss the course of osteopathic treatment in addition to other advice designed to help manage or relieve the pain and maintain your health. 

They will also discuss the cost involved depending on the level of care you would like.

Treatment: Pending time treatment will take place near the end of the appointment. It is very important to take time with the previous 3 steps to ensure the right assessment is made. Therefore, effective treatment can be planned and conducted at subsequent appointments that you understand, and are happy with. 

Occasionally, if they are unable to treat the issue as it can be outside their scope, they may refer you to a GP or other health professionals. 

Learn further here.

How long will my appointment be?

Your first appointment will be for 1 hour and subsequent appointments are 45 minutes long

What should I wear?

To enable us to assess and treat more effectively, It may be necessary to ask you to remove some clothing. Please dress comfortably, wearing shorts and a t-shirt if you wish, and be assured that your modesty will always be respected.

What does the treatment involve?

Osteopathic treatment utilises a variety of manual and movement based exercise techniques which aim to improve the health of your muscles, ligaments, joints, as well as your nerves. 

Most techniques in osteopathy are usually quite gentle and osteopaths work very hard to ensure you experience as little discomfort as possible.  

What training do Osteopaths have

Undergraduate students follow a four or five-year degree course combining academic and clinical work. Qualification generally takes the form of a bachelor’s degree in osteopathy – a BSc(Hons), BOst or a Masters degree in osteopathy (MOst). 

Many osteopaths continue their studies after graduating. Osteopaths are required to update their training, skills and knowledge throughout their working lives, through our continuing professional development scheme.

All Osteopaths are registered and regulated by the General Osteopathic Council 

Do I need a referral from a GP?

You do not require a referral from a GP. Private Healthcare is self funded and you arrange your own appointment directly with ourselves. 

Can I bring a friend/partner?

Yes, osteopaths are happy for you to be accompanied by another adult during all or part of your treatment if it makes you feel more comfortable. Children should always be accompanied by a parent or guardian throughout treatment.

What are the payment options?

We accept all major debit and credit cards. 

Can I use my private health insurance or cash plan?

We’re covered by most major health insurers. Please check your individual policy to ensure you are covered for our treatments.

What is your cancellation policy?

We understand that occasionally you are unable to keep your appointment. If such a situation arises, please give us 24 hours notice should you need to cancel or rearrange.

Management reserves the right to enforce a cancellation fee.