The title 'Osteopath' is protected by law, and only those included on the Register are entitled to practice as Osteopaths. Unregistered practice is a criminal offence in the UK.
Do I need a GP referral to see a Osteopath?
Most patients 'self refer' to an osteopath for treatment. Although referral by a GP is not necessary, patients are encouraged to keep both their GP and osteopath fully informed, so that their medical records are current and complete and the patient receives the best possible care from both healthcare practitioners.
Do GP's refer to Osteopaths?
Yes. GPs refer patients to osteopaths where they believe this intervention would be beneficial. Referral guidelines are provided by the General Medical Council.
What can I expect from my first visit to see an Osteopath
At the first consultation, the osteopath will compile a full case history of your symptoms, as well as asking for information about your lifestyle and diet.
The osteopath may also observe you making some simple movements to help them make a diagnosis. You will usually be asked to remove some clothing near the area of the body to be examined.
Osteopaths are trained to examine areas of the body using a highly-developed sense of touch, known as palpation, to determine conditions and identify the body's points of weakness or excessive strain.
Osteopathy is a 'package' of care that includes skilled mobilising and manipulative techniques, reinforced by guidance on diet and exercise.
The osteopath will discuss with you the most appropriate treatment plan, estimating the likely number of sessions needed to treat your condition effectively.
If the osteopath thinks that your condition is unlikely to respond to osteopathic treatment, you will be advised about how to seek further care.
Osteopaths are skilled in diagnostic techniques and trained to identify when a patient needs to be referred to a GP.
What is Osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a primary care profession, focusing on the diagnosis, treatment, prevention and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal disorders, and the effects of these conditions on patients' general health.
Using many of the diagnostic procedures applied in conventional medical assessment, osteopaths seek to restore the optimal functioning of the body, where possible without the use of drugs or surgery.
Osteopathy is based on the principle that the body has the ability to heal, and osteopathic care focuses on strengthening the musculoskeletal systems to treat existing conditions and to prevent illness.
Osteopaths' patient-centred approach to health and well-being means they consider symptoms in the context of the patient's full medical history, as well as their lifestyle and personal circumstances.
This holistic approach ensures that all treatment is tailored to the individual patient.
What do Osteopaths treat?
Osteopathy focuses on the diagnosis, management, treatment and prevention of musculoskeletal and other related disorders without the use of drugs or surgery.
Commonly treated conditions include back and neck pain, postural problems, sporting injuries, muscle and joint deterioration, restricted mobility and occupational ill-health.
Can I bring someone with me during my consultation and subsequent treatment?
Yes; you can bring a chaperone with you if this makes you feel more comfortable.
What is Dermalux Light Therapy
Dermalux LED phototherapy; is a non evasive treatment, which utilizes clinically proven therapeutic light energy; to trigger the skins natural rejunvernation and repair process without pain or down time.
It is a FDA (Federation of Drug and Administration) approved medical device which can be used to treat the following skin related conditions:
Homeopathy is a holistic branch of medicine which uses specially prepared, highly diluted substances with the aim of triggering the body’s own healing mechanisms. Your homeopath will take a detailed history in order to advise the best treatment protocol for your individual needs.
What is Medical Acupunture?
Western medical acupuncture is a therapeutic modality involving the insertion of fine needles; it is an adaptation of Chinese acupuncture using current knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology, and the principles of evidence based medicine.
The placement of needle stimulate the nervous system, and its known modes of action include; local antidromic axon reflexes, segmental and extrasegmental neuromodulation, and other central nervous system effects.
Western medical acupuncture is principally used by conventional healthcare practitioners, most commonly in primary care. It is mainly used to treat musculoskeletal pain, including myofascial trigger point pain. It is also effective for postoperative pain and nausea.
Is Acupuncture Safe?
When done by a qualified practitioner, acupuncture is generally very safe.
Rarely, some people experience mild, short-term side effects such as:
Pain where the needles puncture the skin.
Bleeding or bruising where the needles puncture the skin.
