When you have booked your first appointment with an osteopath, it is natural to be a little nervous and unsure about what to expect. Fortunately, this gentle therapy is an excellent way of treating all sorts of aches and pains.
What Is Osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a branch of medicine that can be used to detect and treat health problems by moving, stretching and massaging muscles and joints.
Osteopaths are healthcare professionals who are highly trained in diagnosing and treating health issues. At the start of your appointment, your osteopath will ask you general questions about your medical history, and more specific questions about the part of your body that is causing discomfort. This will help them to ascertain what the issue is, and put together a treatment plan.
What Happens At An Appointment?
At your appointment, the osteopath will use a range of techniques to aid the self-healing power of your body. To do this, they will first discover where the pain stems from (this might be different to the place where the pain is – for example, pain in your arm may come from a trapped nerve in the neck). They will feel for tightness in the muscles and stiffness in the joints.
Following this, your osteopath will discuss a course of treatment with you. This might involve further visits, exercises you can do at home and advice to help you manage your pain.
Most of the time, treatment will be able to start at your first appointment. This will involve gentle therapy that releases tension, stretches muscles and mobilises joints.
Is Osteopathy Painful?
Treatment is very gentle and shouldn’t involve pain. You may experience some mild discomfort or soreness after your treatment; this is normal and is part of the healing process. However, if you notice any unusual symptoms you should contact your osteopath for advice.
Which Conditions Can An Osteopath Treat?
Osteopaths can treat a wide range of conditions, including:
- Arthritic pain
- Back pain
- Migraines
- Digestive problems
- Fibromyalgia
Osteopaths are recognised by the NHS as healthcare professionals, and are regulated by the General Osteopathic Council. They are educated to degree level, with training taking at least four years and including over 1000 hours of contact time with patients.
How To Find An Osteopath
Occasionally, a GP may refer you to an osteopath to treat your condition. However, if you are looking for a therapy which will help to ease your pain while lessening reliance on medication, it is a good idea to book an appointment with an osteopath. At Northwich Foot Clinic, our osteopath is highly skilled and passionate about helping her patients. Treating people from across Cheshire, Siân Steel has a particular interest in women’s health. You can book your appointment online today.
