Frequently asked questions
Do you have a question?
The questions we answer here are ones frequently asked by visitors to the Practice. If you have a question that is not answered in this section, please ring 01228 524701 and speak to one of our receptionists.
If they cannot answer your question immediately they will consult with one or more of the osteopaths and if necessary will ring you back with the answer.
We will keep this section updated with new questions and answers as they become more frequent.
​
Will I have to undress?
We do get a better idea of how your body moves without clothes, so we prefer you to undress down to your underwear.
If you are uncomfortable with this we will endeavour to accommodate your wishes, or if you would prefer to see an osteopath of the same sex, please tell the receptionist when you make the appointment.
​
How will I feel after treatment?
Our patients usually start to feel better either immediately or within a day or two. Some people feel sore either later the same day or the next morning. This usually only happens after the first treatment and should not last for longer than a day or two.
The most likely reason for soreness after treatment is that inflamed area that has been manipulated feels looser at first and then stiffens up again.
If you are worried, or the pain persists for more than two days, phone us to discuss your symptoms - your osteopath may decide to see you again.
​
How often will I need treatment?
This depends on your problem. We may need to treat you again within a few days, but in most cases the ideal interval between the first and second treatment is a week. This gives your body time to adjust to the alteration that has taken place.
After significant improvement, it is often better to leave even longer between treatments.
​
Can I help myself?
After your first treatment, we will suggest that you rest. This helps avoid any further stress to the damaged area and shows us how you are reacting to treatment without any other influences.
Later, when you are recovering well, we may suggest some exercises to keep you mobile. In general we prefer you to keep as active as you can and - where possible - to keep up your daily routine of work and other activities. Researchers have found that people who can keep their normal routine get better quicker than those who rest completely.
We will also advise you on ways to improve your posture and movement at work.
​
Can I have other types of treatment at the same time as osteopathy?
Other therapies can combine well with osteopathic treatment and we often advise on this.
Our advice depends on the type of condition that you have - we look at each case individually.
​
Should I take painkillers?
Some people worry that taking painkillers will mask the symptoms, and that they will do themselves more harm. We believe that this is unlikely - most conditions will give you adequate warning pain whether you take painkillers or not.
Before you take any new drugs, ask your doctor or pharmacist if it safe to take them at the same time as any other medication, or if there is any medical reason why you should avoid a particular drug.
​
Should I tell my doctor that I am seeing an osteopath?
We prefer you to tell your doctor about any treatment that we give you, just as we like to know about other treatments that your doctor gives you.
If we think that for any reason your doctor should be informed on medical grounds, we will discuss it with you.