The exact format varies slightly depending on the individual osteopath, however generally your osteopath will start by taking a full medical history and details of the problem for which you are seeking help. This is followed by a physical examination of the body and problem area, followed by treatment and advice.

We generally allow up to 45 minutes for a new patient, and up to 30 minutes for a returning patient.

Appointments may vary in length from session to session depending on the osteopath's assessment, which techniques they use and how they approach your individual symptoms on the day.

To accurately examine you, your osteopath may require you to undress to your underwear. For most treatments it is possible for women to be treated in stretchy shorts and a thin strapped vest top and for men to be treated in sports shorts if you would prefer not to be treated in your underwear. Unlike some manual therapists, we do not generally use towels to cover our patients as we need to be able to see the injured area.

Some techniques may cause mild discomfort during treatment. Your osteopath will tell you what to expect, and will want you to let them know if you are in pain. You may feel stiff or sore after treatment which is usually a normal, healthy response to the treatment and is nothing to worry about.

We may recommend you use ice packs on the painful area and gently keep moving if you do experience any discomfort post treatment.

No - osteopaths are trained to diagnose as well as treat. However, osteopaths are not able to prescribe medication, so if you feel you need pain relief medication as well as osteopathic treatment, it may be worth seeing your GP. 

If you plan to pay for your treatment using Health Insurance you will need to contact your insurer prior to commencing treatment as some companies require you to be seen by your doctor first.

The number of treatments you require depends on your individual condition, lifestyle and needs. We aim to keep your number of appointments to a minimum and to give you the tools to self-manage your condition where appropriate. Your osteopath will be able to tell you within a short period of time whether they can treat you or if they need to refer you to a different practitioner, medical professional or therapy.

It is not uncommon for there to be some stiffness or soreness in the first 24 hours after treatment, as the body adjusts to the treatment, much like after a massage. Your osteopath might have advised you to apply ice to the area, gently keep moving, or do some gentle stretches. If you still aren't sure what to do next, telephone the osteopath or clinic for more advice and to talk through how you are feeling.