What will happen at my first osteopathic appointment?
- Matthew Rogers
- Feb 8, 2019
- 3 min read
At Netherne Osteopathic Practice, we know that if you haven't been to an osteopath before, attending your first appointment may seem a little daunting to begin with. That’s why we have put together the following frequently asked questions fact-sheet to explain exactly what to expect and answer some of the questions you might have. If you have any other concerns, please contact the practice by phone prior to attending your first appointment.
What will happen at my first osteopathic appointment?
At the start of your first appointment, your osteopath will ask you to tell them about your problem. They will ask questions about your medical history and lifestyle as well as your symptoms. This is very important as it will help them to make an accurate diagnosis and suggest appropriate treatment. They will write down what you say in your medical records. These will be kept confidential in conjunction with the General Data Protection Regulation 2018.
The osteopath will need to examine the area(s) of your body causing discomfort. Sometimes the cause of the problem may be in a different area to the pain. For example, a difference in leg length may result in compensations in the upper back which might result in neck pain. As a result, the osteopath may need to examine your whole body.
The osteopath will need to feel for tightness in the muscles and stiffness in the joints and may need to touch these areas to identify problems. They may use a variety of techniques including gentle articulation, manipulation, and massage, and may provide advice and exercises aimed at reducing the likelihood of recurrence. They will explain what they are doing as they go alone. If you are uncomfortable with any part of this, you have the right to ask them to stop at any stage without prejudicing your future treatment.
Will I need to get undressed at my osteopathy appointment?
In order to examine you effectively, it may be necessary for your osteopath to ask you to remove some clothing as appropriate for the condition. If this is a problem for you, make your osteopath aware of this, and discuss whether it might be appropriate for them to treat you while you wear shorts and a t-shirt.
How many treatments will I need?
The osteopath will suggest a course of treatment, which may require several visits. They may be able to give you an estimate of how often they need to see you and any associated costs by the end of the first session. They will ask for your permission to provide treatment and you may be asked to sign a consent form.
Most osteopaths will begin your treatment at your first appointment, but sometimes they may require further tests first i.e. blood tests or scans. Occasionally they may diagnose an illness that they are unable to treat and may suggest that you consult your GP or another appropriate health professional.
Does osteopathic treatment hurt?
You may experience mild discomfort after the session, but osteopathic treatment is usually a very gentle process. Your osteopath will let you know if any discomfort is likely and it can be helpful to let them know what you are feeling. If pain persists after treatment, contact your osteopath for advice.
Can I bring someone with me to my osteopathic appointment?
You are welcome to bring someone with you for all or part of your consultation. Children should always be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
If you have any other questions, please ask your osteopath.