Our body goes through a lot of stress and tension on a daily basis. From our work to our relationships, everything can take a toll on our physical and mental well-being. This is where an osteopathy initial assessment comes in as it is known to be an effective way of dealing with such stress and tension.
This article will give you an insight into what patients go through in an osteopathy initial assessment.
What is osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a form of alternative medicine that focuses on the musculoskeletal system. It is based on the principle that the body has the ability to heal itself. The aim of osteopathy is to encourage this self-healing process by using manipulative techniques and exercises.
Benefits of Osteopathy Treatment
There are many benefits associated with osteopathy. It is known to be effective in treating a wide range of conditions, such as:
- Back pain
- Joint pain
- Arthritis
- Migraines and headaches
- Digestive problems
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
- Stress and tension
How Osteopathy Works
Osteopathy works by using a hands-on approach to identify and treat the cause of the problem. The treatment is based on the principle that the body has the ability to heal itself.
By using manipulative techniques, osteopaths aim to improve the functioning of the musculoskeletal system. This, in turn, helps to relieve pain and improve overall health.
Moreover, osteopaths also use exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles, which further helps in the healing process.
What’s included in an osteopathy initial assessment?
An initial assessment is crucial in order to determine the best course of treatment for each patient. During this assessment, the osteopath will take a detailed medical history and carry out a physical examination. This will help to identify the cause of the problem and the best way to treat it.
The medical history will include questions about your symptoms, health, and lifestyle. The physical examination will assess your posture, range of motion, and reflexes. It is important, to be honest with the osteopath during this assessment so that they can accurately diagnose and treat your condition.
What happens after an initial assessment?
After the initial assessment, the osteopath will devise a treatment plan specifically for you. This may involve a combination of manipulative techniques, exercises, and lifestyle advice. The number of sessions required will depend on the individual case but most patients see improvement after just a few sessions.
When is osteopathy therapy necessary?
If you are suffering from any of the conditions mentioned above, then osteopathy may be able to help. However, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment.
Moreover, if you are pregnant or have a history of cancer, it is important to get medical clearance before starting osteopathy treatment.
When should you not get osteopathy?
There are certain times when osteopathy is not recommended. These include:
- If you have a fever
- You have an active infection
- If you have recently had surgery
- You have a bleeding disorder
Osteopathy is generally considered to be a safe and effective form of treatment. However, as with any treatment, there are some risks involved. These include:
- Pain or discomfort during the treatment
- Bruising or swelling at the site of treatment
- Headaches
- Dizziness
It is important to remember that these side effects are usually mild and temporary. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, it is important to stop the treatment and consult with your healthcare professional.
How much does osteopathy cost?
The cost of osteopathy treatment will vary depending on the practitioner and the number of sessions required. However, most practitioners offer a free initial consultation so that you can decide if osteopathy is right for you.
Here at Northwich Foot Clinic, we ensure that our patients receive the best possible care. Our team of highly skilled and experienced osteopaths is on hand to provide you with an initial assessment and devise a treatment plan specifically for you. Contact us today to book an appointment.
