The purpose of the initial consultation is to gather the information required to establish a working diagnosis. This is done by taking a comprehensive case history, which covers not only the presenting condition, but also a previous medical history in some detail and also a lifestyle history to allow all possible causes to be considered.

This is also an opportunity to clarify that the patient is indeed suitable for osteopathic treatment by ruling out any medical cause for the condition. This is followed by a physical examination, typically, during the examination you will be asked to attempt certain movements to enable me to assess your mobility.

The painful areas will be palpated to identify any areas of weakness, strain, dysfunction or specific injury.

Other tests such as x-rays, blood pressure etc. may be carried out as required, for this you may be asked to undress to your underwear to allow a clear view of your posture, to examine mobility, and conduct a range of tests, all of which help to clarify the condition and its underlying causes.

You are never required to undress beyond the underwear, and you are asked to make it clear if undressing makes you uncomfortable for any reason. Being able to view the area concerned does help greatly, allowing for a comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan which is designed for you.  However the wish is to never make you feel anxious in any way. You may feel more comfortable bringing shorts to wear during your visits. (You are welcome to bring along a chaperone should you wish).

Once a diagnosis is arrived at this is clearly explained, together with detail of the treatment plan, the techniques that may be employed. Then the treatment is begun. There are however exceptional cases where there may not be time to carry out a treatment on the first appointment. Normally there is time towards the end of this first visit for some treatment and advice. An estimate of how many treatment may be needed will be provided at this point but may change on the following treatment depending on the reaction of the body to the treatment.  Each individual is different so the number varies from person to person even if they have the same complaint as someone else.

Subsequent treatments carry on following some questioning about the changes to your condition and a brief re-examination is made. This allows the progression of treatment to be assessed objectively and ensures that it is adapted accordingly. During these visits both hands-on treatment is provided as well as advice regarding exercises or lifestyle modifications that will assist in your recovery. Any questions you may have can be addressed along the way.
Patient comfort and treatment effectiveness are the two key aims throughout my work.

Following treatment, advice can be given on what you may be able to do to help yourself, and how you can minimize the risk of further injury.