What happens when you first visit an Osteopath? 

The initial consultation lasts up to 45 minutes and involves a detailed case history including your medical history, a postural examination and an active and passive assessment of your spinal mobility and a neurological examination. When this is complete treatment is given where appropriate. In rare cases further investigation in the form of blood tests or x-rays may be necessary. Follow up treatments last 30 minutes.

How many times will I have to visit?

Improvement is usually reported after a single treatment with most acute problems fully resolved in 4-6 treatments or less. Chronic problems take longer to respond and sometimes require ongoing treatment. The diagnosis and treatment plan will be explained to you.

Do I have to undress?

It is essential for the Osteopath to visualise the spine for curvatures, rotations etc during the initial assessment. However this does not need to involve undressing, the most important element of the treatment is that you feel comfortable and relaxed.