| THE CONSULTATION |
What will happen on your first consultation?
The initial consultation will last approximately one hour, allowing your osteopath to take a detailed case history about your current problem/s and any previous complaints/injuries. You will also be asked various questions about your general health both past and present. This may seem irrelevant and time consuming, but it is necessary in order to obtain an accurate assessment of your problem, and the appropriate treatment/management. It also may help to decide if further referral or tests are advisable (such as x‑rays).
Examination
You may be asked to remove sufficient clothing to allow effective assessment of the painful area and associated joints. For instance, in a simple wrist strain this may simply mean rolling up your sleeve; however, in a spinal problem accurate assessment may require undressing down to underwear. If this is unacceptable please discuss it with your attending osteopath. Feel free to bring shorts to change into for the examination.
Examination will consist of carefully assessing joint movement and muscle function.
Occasionally it may be necessary to recommend further diagnostic tests such as blood tests or X-Rays which may be organized via your G.P. or privately depending on the situation.
Chaperones are welcome during any treatment and indeed necessary for the under 16's.
It is important to stress the examination is both gentle & painless.
Diagnosis
Following examination your osteopath will be able to explain to you what the most likely cause of your symptoms/problems are and the best strategy for achieving improvement. This may include treatment, specific exercises or general advice. We pride ourselves on allowing plenty of time for you to ask questions if there is anything you are not clear about.
Treatment
The Osteopaths at Cheyham Lodge will use techniques that are generally both gentle and specific. Treatments will always be tailored to suit the individual. The different approaches will be discussed fully with you before any treatment commences.
How long will it take to improve?
If the problem is straightforward both diagnostically and technically, most people notice a significant reduction in symptoms in 1 to 4 treatments. Complex or longstanding problems may require longer.