Call: 01620 844 444
E-mail: info@elost.co.uk

F.A.Q.'s

When you visit an Osteopath for the first time, there will be a thorough physical examination.
You may be asked to remove some items of clothing.
The examination will include any relevant neurological tests. This allows for a full diagnosis and a suitable individual treatment plan to be developed with you. Osteopathic examination and treatment rarely causes any pain. In fact, many people find it quite pleasant.

Treatments consist of gentle manipulation and stretching of the joints, muscles ligaments.
In most cases it is followed by advice to help prevent recurrence of trouble.
Many problems require more than one visit so you may be advised to return for another treatment. This can be arranged, as far as possible at your convenience.

Because we are all unique, everyone responds differently. After treatment you may feel relieved and energetic or you may feel a bit tired and achy this is completely normal. Osteopathy is used to treat, most people from babies right through to childhood, adolescence, adulthood, pregnancy up to the elderly. Each person’s case is looked at before treatment commences as to whether it is suitable or not.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is an adjustment?
An "adjustment" is a procedure employed by osteopaths to restore proper movement patterns to a joint and reduce any irritation of the nerve structures around the joint. The community is more familiar with the term "manipulation" but osteopaths generally prefer the term "adjustment" as it better reflects the variety and specificity of the techniques used by practitioners.

How long does each visit take?
The first visit takes about forty five minutes to an hour as we need to gain an understanding of your reasons for seeking our help and perform an appropriate physical assessment. We will explain any change we find and if we feel we can help you we will take things from there. Subsequent visits vary according to each persons needs and the type of technique that the practitioner employs. Consequently adjustment times vary from 20 minutes to 40 minutes.

How many visits will I need?
This depends on a number of factors, including the type of problem you have, how long you have had it and the approach you wish to take with osteopathic care. Each situation is different but this will be covered as soon as we have enough information to make specific recommendations for you.

How long will it take to get better?
Once again, this varies with factors like your age, type of problem, general level of health and so on. The recommendations we make will enable you to achieve the results you are seeking as quickly as possible and you give yourself the best opportunity to respond by following them closely.

Will I need x-rays?
X-rays and other diagnostic imaging can be quite helpful but they are not always needed. If we feel you need these types of tests we will let you know. Of course, if you have already had these types of tests it is helpful if you can obtain a copy of the report.

Have I got a "trapped nerve" a "slipped disc" or a "muscular" problem?
These are commonly used general terms that describe a variety of problems. Your osteopath will provide a more specific explanation of your problem to you.

What is the popping noise I hear when I have an adjustment?
When two joint surfaces are quickly moved apart slightly a sudden change in pressure occurs inside the joint. This sometimes produces a noise as a gas bubble forms within the joint. Some types of adjustment work in this way but the noise is not significant and does not hurt.

Is "cracking" my neck or back myself a good idea?
NO. You cannot control the direction or joint level being moved. You may feel temporary relief but this occurs at the expense of further joint irritation and imbalance. Osteopathic care insures the proper joints are adjusted with the correct movement. If you feel the need for relief consult you Osteopath rather than self manipulate.

Will my doctor approve?
G.P.'s are increasingly utilising osteopathy as an effective form of healthcare, particularly for mechanical problems of the spine.

Can I claim the costs of my care through my health insurance?
All osteopaths in the clinic are registered with the General Osteopathic Council, so if you have a policy that covers osteopathic care you should be able to claim costs. Some companies require a G.P. referral; others do not. We suggest you check this with your insurer.

Can I continue to exercise when receiving osteopathic care?
Yes. Exercise is an important part of the process of helping your body "reprogram" the way it is working. We may suggest certain modifications to the type of exercise you do but by and large we encourage you to keep exercising.

Is my bed/chair etc causing my problem?
Supportive beds and well designed chairs are important but they are rarely the sole cause of the problems people encounter. These are discussed in more detail during the consultation.

Is good posture important?
Yes. Good posture enables the body to distribute the physical stresses it absorbs in an even way. It is also important for proper functioning of other body systems such as the respiratory system and the circulatory systems.

Should I bring my family for osteopathic checks?
Yes. Incorrect joint function can often be detected before any symptoms appear and promoting good health by preventing these problems is one of the main aims of osteopaths, just as regular visits to the dentist help prevent tooth decay.

What is the difference between an Osteopath and a Chiropractor?
Both Osteopaths and Chiropractors use spinal manipulation methods but Osteopaths also use soft tissue techniques to help balance the manipulations help prevent the spinal subluxation from recurring. It incorporates exercises, stretching and massage type techniques where chiropractors do not.

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