FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

About Osteopathy

What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is a health care system that lays emphasis on all structural and mechanical elements of the body. The bones, muscles and joints are collectively known as the musculo-skeletal system, and osteopaths are primarily concerned with how this system can function at an optimal and pain-free level.

What can Osteopathy treat?

Due to lower back pain becoming common in daily life osteopathy has become synonymous with the treatment of spinal pain but it is much more than that. In reality osteopathy also helps pain and dysfunction in other parts of the body (e.g. ankles, knees, elbows, ribs etc.), as well as helping the functioning of important areas such as the thorax, pelvis and abdomen.

Is Osteopathy safe?

Yes, Osteopathy is regarded as being very safe. Osteopathy has one of the best safety records of any medically related profession. Osteopaths are trained to recognise a wide range of conditions and when not appropriate to treat with osteopathy, a referral to another medical professional can be made if required. We are registered and regulated by the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC) and are governed by the Osteopaths Act (1993) which provides regulation in a similar manner to those in place for doctors and dentists.

On a first consultation the Osteopath will take a case history that will include questions about general patient health, medical history and present complaint. This is to ensure that your complaint is suitable for osteopathic treatment and this can be undertaken safely.

What form does the treatment take?

Osteopaths use their knowledge of anatomy and physiology and are trained to examine areas of the body using a highly developed sense of touch known as palpation. They are able to identify underlying conditions and identify the body’s points of weakness or excessive strain. Osteopathy is a system of care that includes skilled mobilising and manipulative techniques. These can consist of a series of gentle, rhythmical movements of the arms, legs, and the spine, combined with gentle stretching of muscles and adjustments of the joints and ligaments. After treatment you may be advised on posture, exercise, diet or other natural means of helping you with your condition.

Does Osteopathy hurt?

Treatment is usually gentle and should not be painful. The vast majority of techniques used in osteopathy are painless. There may be some circumstances where treatment may be slightly uncomfortable but it is very short lived. Most patients will feel a reduction in their pain following their first treatment.

Are there any side effects?

It is not uncommon to experience a reaction, especially following your first session of osteopathy. This can perhaps be described as a similar feeling after too much unaccustomed exercise. You may expect to feel stiff or a little sore for up to 48 hours. Following most treatments you will probably feel more tired or relaxed than normal. If you have any concerns please feel to contact the practice.

How long do appointments last?

In general, treatments take about 30 minutes. First appointments may take slightly longer.

How much does it cost?

Please visit our Fees Page for a list of current rates.

N.B. Unlike some practices we do not charge more for the initial consultation, and we do not ask patients to book and pay for a course of treatment in advance.

First Visit

Should I bring anything?

Please bring details of any medication that you are taking, as well as any relevant test, scan or x-ray results. You may, of course, bring a vest top and a pair of shorts to put on if you feel that this would help you feel more at ease during the examination.

What happens when I first see the Osteopath?

On the first consultation the Osteopath will take a case history that will include questions about your general health, medical history and present complaint. You will then be asked to undress to your underwear and be examined to see if the presenting problem is suitable for osteopathic treatment. After a diagnosis has been made you will be informed of the proposed treatment plan, including an estimate of the likely time-scale. If osteopathic treatment is appropriate it will start at this time.

How long does the first consultation take?

A typical first appointment will last 30 to 45 minutes, although we do ask new patients to arrive a few minutes early to read through our information sheet and to sign a simple form. Treatment will usually commence during the first appointment session if the osteopath feels that this is appropriate.

Can I bring someone with me?

You may ask a friend or relative to join you if you wish to be accompanied throughout your treatment.

How many treatment sessions will I need?

This depends on many factors including your specific condition, general health, age, diet, lifestyle and complying to exercises and stretches. Most patients feel benefit from the first couple of visits, and subsequent treatments are used to tackle the root cause and prevent re-occurrence. The treatments may then gradually be spaced out to provide long lasting relief.

Unlike some professions, Osteopaths will examine your condition before and after every treatment, and will then discuss when to book in again. There will be no pressure to ‘bulk buy’ treatments, and your prognosis will be discussed after every treatment.

General Questions

Do you offer home visits?

We do not offer home visits, as we have found that a more thorough examination and treatment is delivered in a clinical environment. If a patient is too acute to attend the practice, we are happy to offer advice and support over the telephone until the patient is mobile enough to attend for examination and treatment.

Can I be referred by a Doctor or my GP?

You don’t need a doctors referral to visit us as we are a private practice, but many GPs will make referrals to us. Oundle Osteopaths have a close working relationship with most GPs in the local area.

Can medical insurance be used to cover my treatment?

Many private health insurance policies provide cover for osteopathic treatment. It may be possible to claim for a course of treatment but you should check in advance with your insurance company before starting. In order to confirm the available level of cover you may also need to see your GP before commencing treatment. Our reception team will be glad to advise.

How can I make an appointment?

We only accept appointments that are confirmed by phone or made at our premises. You may call us weekdays between 8.45am and 6pm on 01832 272527.

Outside of these hours you can leave a message on our answer phone or fill in the Appointment Request Form on this website – we will then call you back to confirm. N.B. No appointments will be accepted unless we confirm them verbally.