What should I wear?
As with any medical examination, you may be asked to undress to your underwear so that a thorough diagnosis and treatment is possible. Please wear something you are comfortable in. We will always bear your comfort and modesty in mind.
Can I bring a friend or relative?
Yes – if you wish, you can have someone present throughout your consultation and treatment.
Does it hurt?
We aim to make you as comfortable as possible during examination and treatment. Some examination and treatment methods may be uncomfortable at times but should not be painful. Your osteopath will tell you what to expect, and will want you to let them know if you are in pain. You may feel a little stiff or sore after treatment for up to 48 hours. This is a normal, healthy response to the treatment.
Please feel free to contact us if you have any concerns in this matter.
Do I need to see my doctor first?
You do not need to see your doctor first if you are paying for your own treatment. However, some insurance companies require you to see your doctor first. Osteopathy is currently not available through the Isle of Man Health Service. Many GPs do refer patients on to osteopaths and it is useful to keep both your osteopath and GP up to date with any medical history and treatment.
The British Medical Association’s guidance for general practitioners states that doctors can safely refer patients to osteopaths.
In 2009 The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) included manual therapy, as practiced by osteopaths in the recommendations for early management of persistent non-specific back pain. This included manipulation, mobilisation and massage, for patients who “have been in pain for longer than six weeks but less than one year, where pain may be linked to structures in the back such and joints, muscles and ligaments”.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments you need depends on the condition and person we are treating. We aim to keep your appointments to a minimum. During your first appointment the osteopath will be able to tell you whether they can treat you or if they need to refer you to someone else. Patients, on average, respond well within 2-10 treatments.
How long do appointments usually last?
Appointments usually last about 40-45 minutes. The first appointment will be slightly longer so that a full history and examination can be taken.
What conditions do osteopaths treat?
The most common conditions that we treat are: back & neck pain, shoulder & arm problems, pelvis, hip and leg problems, sports & other injuries. However, patients have found osteopathy helpful for many other conditions.
Please contact me to find out more.
What qualifications do osteopaths have?
To qualify, osteopaths must study for a four year undergraduate degree. This is similar to a medical degree, with more emphasis on anatomy and musculoskeletal medicine and includes more than 1000 hours of training in osteopathic techniques. They are then required to do a minimum of 30 hours per year of continued professional development or “CPD” to maintain up to date skills and knowledge.
By law, UK osteopaths must register with The General Osteopathic Council (GOsC). It is an offense for anyone to call themselves an osteopath if they are not registered.
Chiropractors and Osteopaths are currently the only complementary therapists subject to this statutory regulation.