First Osteopathy Visit Information

IMPORTANT INFORMATION.  PLEASE READ CAREFULLY

What happens during my first visit for osteopathy and massage?

Initial consultation – This is the first stage of your treatment. To build up a complete diagnostic picture, I will ask you about your medical history and background information relating to your source of pain or discomfort. This will include details regarding your lifestyle and daily activities.

It would be helpful if you bring with you the results of any tests or scans you have had and a list of any medication you currently take. You will also have the opportunity to discuss any aspect of your problem and any concerns regarding your treatment. It is important I know if you feel unwell or if there is a possibility that you are pregnant or have a history of serious health issues such as cancer, cardio-vascular disease and osteoporosis. The first appointment usually lasts one hour and subsequent treatments take approximately 30 minutes. If English is not your first language, please bring a friend or family member who can translate to avoid any misunderstanding.

Examination – You will be asked to go through some movements as part of the examination, and additional tests may be carried out – all of which are designed to help make the optimum diagnosis of your problem. I will discuss the options with you before obtaining permission to go ahead and provide treatment. Depending on the area being treated you may be required to undress to your underwear. Gowns are available if required, or if you prefer, a vest type top and shorts may be worn. You are welcome to bring a friend or chaperone if you wish and if you are under 16 you will need to bring a parent or guardian.

Treatment – An individually designed series of osteopathic massage, stretches and joint manipulation will be used to re-establish postural and tissue balance. A short course of treatment may be recommended and if during this time your health or a medical condition changes, please let me know before starting the treatment. If you require an area to be worked on or avoided please let me know at the beginning of your appointment.

After Treatment – You may feel stiff or sore for a few hours. This can be similar to after exercising. Please ring and talk to me if you have any concerns.

Should you have any concerns – If you have a concern or complaint about the level of care you have received please let me know. I hope that most issues could be sorted out quickly and easily. If you wish to make a complaint I will try and find out what went wrong and to discuss this with you. If appropriate you will receive an apology and I will identify what I can do to ensure this problem does not arise again. If you are complaining on behalf of someone else I will need a note of consent from the person concerned.

Complaints Mediation Service – If you do not feel that your complaint has been resolved to your satisfaction you can talk to an independent service about it by ringing the Institute of Osteopathy on Freephone 0800 110 5857 or email enquiries@iosteopathy.org. The Institute of Osteopathy are unable to award any compensation.

General Osteopathic Council – If you are concerned about safety and you wish to instigate a formal complaint with the regulatory body, the General Osteopathic Council can be contacted on 0207 357 6655 or via their website www.osteopathy.org.uk. The Council are unable to award any compensation.