What will happen during the first appointment?
Firstly, Sam will take great care to help you relax and understand exactly what to expect. It can be unsettling when you try a new form of healthcare, particularly at a time when you're in pain! You'll get a warm reception and a very understanding attitude.
Sam will begin by taking your details and your GPs details. He may want to know about your leisure time activities and your working practices. He will then ask you to explain your condition and will ask some questions in order to understand the details. Next Sam will enquire about your general medical history. Once this is done, you will may be required to remove some items of clothing - this is so that a medical/physical examination can be performed. Palpation is normally used to help diagnose the problem. Sam may use orthopaedic tests to help him to identify the reason for your pain. He will then discuss his findings with you - this is important as a good understanding of your condition will help you to manage it properly, which may well speed your recovery. Sam is a tutor at the local university and he strongly believes in helping his clients to get a firm understanding of what is going on int their bodies.
As long as osteopathic treatment is appropriate it will be begun at the first appointment. Throughout the process he will explain what he is doing and why, that way you will be fully informed and fully involved in the treatment plan. If your problem is not suitable for osteopathic treatment, Sam will explain why and give you a referral.
Do I need to bring anything with me?Sam will begin by taking your details and your GPs details. He may want to know about your leisure time activities and your working practices. He will then ask you to explain your condition and will ask some questions in order to understand the details. Next Sam will enquire about your general medical history. Once this is done, you will may be required to remove some items of clothing - this is so that a medical/physical examination can be performed. Palpation is normally used to help diagnose the problem. Sam may use orthopaedic tests to help him to identify the reason for your pain. He will then discuss his findings with you - this is important as a good understanding of your condition will help you to manage it properly, which may well speed your recovery. Sam is a tutor at the local university and he strongly believes in helping his clients to get a firm understanding of what is going on int their bodies.
As long as osteopathic treatment is appropriate it will be begun at the first appointment. Throughout the process he will explain what he is doing and why, that way you will be fully informed and fully involved in the treatment plan. If your problem is not suitable for osteopathic treatment, Sam will explain why and give you a referral.
If you have ever had any x-rays or scans that relate to your problem, it may be very useful to give the osteopath a copy of the results. If you are taking any medications, please bring details of them with you. Any details of past medical history that you can provide will be of relevance during the consultation.
Does it hurt?
Many osteopathic techniques are very gentle, but some soft tissue treatment may cause discomfort. Your osteopath will tell you what to expect, and will want you to let them know if you are in pain. You may feel stiff or sore after treatment. This is a normal, healthy response and should only last 24-48 hours.
How much does treatment cost?
The first treatment usually lasts one hour and costs £40.00. The extended appointment time allows the osteopath to perform a thorough case history and examination and to explain his findings and the options for treatment to you. He will then have time for the initial treatment. Follow up treatments last half an hour and cost £30.00.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments depends on the condition and person we are treating. In most cases, the osteopath will give you advice and exercises to manage and rehabilitate your condition so that you can get back to living your life as soon as possible.You will not be required to pay for any treatment in advance. Every individual is different, but as a rule of thumb, a course of 4-6 treatments is normal.
What should I wear?
As with any medical examination, you will probably be asked to undress to your underwear, so please wear something you are comfortable in. Cycling and running shorts are pefectly acceptable. A towel is always provided for your modesty.
Can I bring a friend or relative?
Yes – if you wish, you can have someone present throughout your consultation and treatment.
Do I need to see my doctor first?
The Lakes Osteopathic Clinic is privately run and you do not need to see your doctor before attending. With your permission, the osteopath may contact your GP if he feels it is necessary to do so. Osteopathy is available on the NHS in some areas – and national guidelines say it should be available everywhere for low back pain. Sadly, this is not yet the case and local PCTs have not yet taken steps to ensure widespread provision of osteopathy.
Do you treat babies or children?
Osteopathic treatment of babies and children is a specialism. Currently we are unable to offer this service and do not treat anyone below the age of 16.
Many osteopathic techniques are very gentle, but some soft tissue treatment may cause discomfort. Your osteopath will tell you what to expect, and will want you to let them know if you are in pain. You may feel stiff or sore after treatment. This is a normal, healthy response and should only last 24-48 hours.
How much does treatment cost?
The first treatment usually lasts one hour and costs £40.00. The extended appointment time allows the osteopath to perform a thorough case history and examination and to explain his findings and the options for treatment to you. He will then have time for the initial treatment. Follow up treatments last half an hour and cost £30.00.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments depends on the condition and person we are treating. In most cases, the osteopath will give you advice and exercises to manage and rehabilitate your condition so that you can get back to living your life as soon as possible.You will not be required to pay for any treatment in advance. Every individual is different, but as a rule of thumb, a course of 4-6 treatments is normal.
What should I wear?
As with any medical examination, you will probably be asked to undress to your underwear, so please wear something you are comfortable in. Cycling and running shorts are pefectly acceptable. A towel is always provided for your modesty.
Can I bring a friend or relative?
Yes – if you wish, you can have someone present throughout your consultation and treatment.
Do I need to see my doctor first?
The Lakes Osteopathic Clinic is privately run and you do not need to see your doctor before attending. With your permission, the osteopath may contact your GP if he feels it is necessary to do so. Osteopathy is available on the NHS in some areas – and national guidelines say it should be available everywhere for low back pain. Sadly, this is not yet the case and local PCTs have not yet taken steps to ensure widespread provision of osteopathy.
Do you treat babies or children?
Osteopathic treatment of babies and children is a specialism. Currently we are unable to offer this service and do not treat anyone below the age of 16.