FAQ

Can I bring a friend/partner?

Yes, by all means bring another adult to your treatment if it makes you feel more comfortable. Children who are attending for treatment must always be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Can I have Osteopathy on the NHS?

Osteopathy is not widely available on the NHS. The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) Guidelines concerning the management of non-specific low back pain recommend manual therapy (including osteopathy) as treatment within the NHS, however, actual referral for osteopathic treatment varies widely by area and practice. It is always worth asking your GP for osteopathic treatment if you are diagnosed with non-specific low back pain.

What will happen in my appointment?

The first part of your appointment will involve your osteopath taking a full case history which includes your general medical history and details of the complaint that has brought you to the clinic.

In the next part of the appointment, the osteopath will carry out an examination. You may be asked to perform some movements and the osteopath may then move different parts of your body to see how they are functioning. Depending on your individual case, additional tests may be performed, such as testing your reflexes.

Once your osteopath has completed the examination they will let you know what they think is causing the problem, and offer you a treatment plan. There are many different techniques that osteopaths can use and your osteopath will discuss these with you before starting your treatment. You may also be advised about exercises, diet or work posture if relevant to your case.

Occasionally patients need to be referred to their GP and in this situation we are happy to write a letter as to why we feel this is necessary.

How much does it cost?

A 45-minute appointment (first visit or follow-up) is £85, a 30-minute follow-up is £70, and a 60-minute appointment is £100. Home visits are £140.

Most people start with a 45-minute appointment so there’s time for a full assessment and treatment. See Treatment & Prices for more.

Do I have to undress?

You will be asked to undress to your underwear. This allows the osteopath to examine your whole body and consider the relevance of different parts of the body to your presenting problem. It is best to wear something you are comfortable in. If you prefer you can bring shorts and a sports bra/vest which you can change into before the examination commences.

Does it hurt?

A patient in a great deal of pain may find even very gentle touch uncomfortable. Osteopathic techniques range from very gentle soft tissue work to high velocity thrusts (HVT) to manipulate the positioning of your body. Your osteopath will let you know if a treatment is likely to be uncomfortable and will offer alternative options if possible. Your practitioner will ask your consent throughout your appointment.

How do I give feedback or make a complaint?

I value patient feedback about any aspect of your experience within the clinics I work from. Comments or suggestions are welcomed through the clinic receptionists or directly with me via the contact form. In the event you are unhappy with the response you receive to a complaint, you can make a further complaint through the General Osteopathic Council: regulation@osteopathy.org.uk.