Osteopathy

What to expect at your first appointment

What to expect at your first appointment

Thank you for booking an appointment with The WOW Clinic. We know that attending your first appointment with an Osteopath can be a little disconcerting to begin with. The following information should help you to understand what to expect and answer some of the questions that you may have.

What will the initial consultation involve?

When you arrive for your appointment, your Osteopath will ask you to tell them about your problem. They will ask you questions about your medical history, general health, lifestyle and your current symptoms. This will help them make an accurate diagnosis and suggest appropriate treatment.

Will this information be recorded?

Yes, the Osteopath will record this information in your personal file and it will be kept confidential in compliance with the Data Protection Act 1998. If you wish, you may ask for a copy of these notes.

How long does the initial consultation last?

An initial consultation at The WOW Clinic lasts for 40 minutes. Subsequent appointments are 30 minutes.

How will the Osteopath diagnose the problem?

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. The Osteopath will look at your posture and ask you to perform a series of movements and tests so that the mobility of your body can be evaluated. They will need to feel for tightness in the muscles and stiffness in joints; and may need to touch these areas to identify problems. They will explain what they are doing as they go along. If you are uncomfortable with any part of this, you have the right to ask them to stop at any stage, without prejudicing your right to further treatment.

What do I wear?

Its always a good idea to come to the appointment in clothes that you find comfortable to move around in; for example, leggings or leisure wear, and a t-shirt, loose top or vest top.

Will I have to remove my clothes?

To aid the Osteopath’s examination, you may be asked to remove some of your clothing. If you feel uncomfortable about this, you may bring a pair of shorts and a t-shirt to change into before your consultation. The Osteopath will do their best to respect your modesty.

Can I bring someone with me?

You are free to bring along a friend or relative with you for all, or part of your consultation. Children should always be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Will I need more than one treatment?

Your Osteopath will give you an indication of how many treatments you are likely to need and how long it will take to improve your condition. The Osteopath will then be able to explain the treatment plan to you and proceed with the treatment.

Will I need any other tests/scans?

Occasionally, the Osteopath may require further tests before treatment can be given; i.e blood tests or scans. And 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.

Will the treatment be painful?

Osteopathy is a mild and gentle treatment process; however, you may experience mild discomfort with some of the treatment techniques used. If, at any point during the treatment you experience pain, please tell the Osteopath immediately.

Will I be in pain after the appointment has finished?

Your Osteopath will let you know if any discomfort is likely after the treatment. Sometimes, a little soreness can be experienced afterwards; however, if pain persists for a number of days, contact your Osteopath for advice.

If you have any other concerns, please contact the practice by phone or email prior to attending your first appointment and we will do our best to answer your questions and put your mind at rest!

Professionalism and safety

To qualify, an Osteopath must study for four to five years for an undergraduate degree. This is similar to a medical degree, with more emphasis on anatomy and musculoskeletal medicine and includes more than 1,000 hours of training in Osteopathic techniques. By law, Osteopaths must register with the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC). It is an offence for anyone to call themselves an Osteopath if they are not registered. The British Medical Association’s guidance for General Practitioners states that doctors can safely refer patients to Osteopaths. On the 1st September 2012, the GOsC, published new guidelines that apply to all registered Osteopaths. We take pride and care in providing safe and effective treatment to all of our patients.

Read more about the latest Standards Of Practice on the GOsC website.

Patient Charter

The WOW Clinic aims to provide excellent, professional health care services. We aim for 100% satisfaction of patients. We will always offer the same high standards regardless of who you are.

Our aim is not just to make you feel better by loosening tight muscles, freeing stiff or painful joints, but also to help avoid the need for long term treatment. We will help your body adjust and rehabilitate by helping you improve your posture and setting special exercises for you to follow. We will also always recommend the best aftercare advice so creating a complete, holistic care plan based on you as an individual.

Our staff are committed to ensuring that patients only receive the best in objective and professional advice and treatment. If we feel your problem may be treated more effectively by another approach or a different WOW Clinic practitioner, we will refer you.