Frequently Asked Questions

What is Osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a natural approach to healthcare and can benefit people of all ages. Osteopathy is a system of manual therapy that diagnoses, treats and manages problems that occur in a persons soft tissue and the musculoskeletal system.

Osteopathy can also be used to help prevent problems before they occur by maintaining suppleness and flexibility.

Osteopathic treatment of the soft tissue and musculoskeletal system uses many gentle treatment methods to try and restore normal function.

Dominic has trained extensively to diagnose the cause of pain and can often do a great deal to alleviate the problem. Dominic investigates the underlying cause of pain and carries out treatment using a variety of soft tissue, muscular and joint techniques.

What are Visceral Techniques?
Visceral Osteopathy are techniques used by some osteopaths which investigate and addresses visceral/organ dysfunction (e.g liver, bowel, bladder, uterus, etc.) that may cause pain or dysfunction of the spine or other joints of the body (shoulders, pelvis, hips etc).

Visceral dysfunction can be associated with low back pain or urinary infections, reflux and heartburn. By applying stretching techniques to the viscera this can help release tension and restrictions in joints including the spine.

What happens at my first appointment?
At your first appointment a full case history will be undertaken. You will be asked questions about your general health, past medical history and any current medication you are taking. This allows the Osteopath to build up a holistic picture of you, looking not only at your symptoms but also other factors such as your lifestyle. You will be asked to undress down to your underwear and gowns are provided for those who wish to wear them. The Osteopath will then carry out a consultation, evaluating your problem areas including your posture, spine, joints, muscles and soft tissues.

The osteopath will then discuss their findings with you, so you fully understand the diagnosis. If appropriate, you will also receive a treatment on your first visit. You will also be given an indication of how many further treatments you will need.

What is manipulation?
Manipulative techniques may include stretching of the muscles and connective tissue, rhythmic joint movement or thrust techniques to improve the range of movement of a joint. Gentle stretching  techniques are often used, particularly when treating elderly patients or children. Osteopaths can also provide useful advice on posture and exercises that can help to reduce the likelihood of problems occurring in the future.
What is Naturopathy?

Naturopathy is a system of health care which promotes the body’s own self-healing mechanism. It uses natural therapies such as Nutrition, Fasting, Detoxification, Acupuncture, Hydrotherapy, Exercise & Psychology.  Using the principles of Naturopathy will empower you to become the best healthy version of yourself.

Does my GP have to refer me to an osteopath?
You do not need a referral from a GP to see an osteopath. The majority of osteopaths work in private practice so you may approach a practitioner directly to make an appointment. If further medical treatment or tests are needed, the osteopath may refer you to your GP or contact your GP, with your permission.
What do I need to wear?
You will need to undress down to your underwear, so it is advisable to wear underwear you are comfortable with. Gowns are available for those who wish to wear them.
Can I claim for my treatment on my medical insurance?
Whether or not you can claim back your treatment costs depends on the osteopath and the insurance company. Some insurance companies require osteopaths to have been qualified for a certain number of years before they will pay for treatment, others do not. If you want to claim for your treatments, please check with your insurance provider prior to starting treatment otherwise you might not be able to claim for the full cost of your treatments.
Is there a code of practice that Osteopaths have to follow?

osteopathic-practice-standards – click here

Osteopathy Explained - click here to view the document