Frequently asked questions

Here is a selection of the questions prospective patients often ask us. If you wish to make further enquiries after reading this page, then please do not hesitate to call either practice on;

01902 429353 or 0121 420 4340

Q; Why was it useful working with Jose and Chris Bennetto and Nalda Gosling?

Each of these practitioners had a vast wealth of knowledge and experience, probably second to none and one could hardly help but be influenced by what they said and did with their patients. Each was also respected not only by their patients but perhaps more significantly by their peers and colleagues. Working with them as I did kindled an interest in Herbal Medicine, nutrition and dietetics and Naturopathy and this influences the way I work today, and since qualifying in Osteopathy in 1987, I have gained professional qualifications in each of these therapies.

Q; Why should I see an Osteopath?

A; Information on our other pages should answer most of your questions about Osteopathy in general and City Osteopaths Ltd in particular. Remember that we are fully trained to diagnose and treat. We maintain a program of ongoing training, have full insurance and must in law be registered with the General Osteopathic Council who uphold professional standards in the public interest. We offer a gentle hands on approach and experience tells that osteopathy frequently helps where other therapies have failed.

Q; Are there any restrictions to having treatment?

A; In general the answer is no. We treat people of all ages and  but we always go through a detailed history and assessment to ascertain if there are any factors which might cause us to modify our treatment in order to best suit your case. Only the techniques that are safe and most applicable to you are used to your benefit.

Q; Does the treatment hurt?

A; Not usually as we are careful to select techniques which are best suited to you the individual patient but do bear in mind that we might be dealing with tissues which are inflamed and so some techniques could leave you feeling a little sore afterwards. Cold compresses are usually enough to overcome this reaction. Many patients feel improved when they leave the practice and do not experience any reaction at all.

Q; How many treatments will I need?

A; This will naturally vary depending upon your problem but we will always give you an idea of the number of sessions you will require. Acute patients tend to need around 1-4 sessions whilst long standing or more complex conditions may need more treatment. Some patients benefit from a programme of maintenance treatment and they sometimes attend every few weeks or months. This will be discussed with you as your case progresses but you are never committed to do anything you do not wish to and lots of people contact us purely on an “as needed” basis.

Q; Do I need a referral from my GP or Consultant?

A; No. We are trained to diagnose and treat independently. However if you are claiming under your health insurance policy you might then need a written referral from your doctor in order to activate your cover; if in doubt please speak to your insurer.

Q; Will I need an MRI scan or X-ray?

A; No, not routinely. However, if we feel it is necessary to obtain more details about your complaint then we can quickly arrange for you to be referred to a private clinic and the scans are back with us within the week. Alternatively, we can refer back to your doctor for NHS investigations but this usually takes  longer.

Q; I have other health problems. Can I still attend?

A; Usually yes. There are very few illnesses which prevent us carrying out any treatment at all but there may be certain techniques which are more suitable than others. These will be carefully chosen to reflect your other health issues and we will always try to gauge the depth and intensity of the treatment to suit the problems you have; this is one area where experience can make a difference.

Q; Can I return to work after the treatment?

A; The inability to go back to work as a result of your treatment should never arise. However a degree of restraint is recommended if for no other reason than this allows the treatment a little more time to take effect and we suggest avoiding strenuous activity after treatment.