In order to understand your condition and inform care options, you will be asked questions about symptoms you are experiencing and details of your medical history and lifestyle. A thorough assessment may include orthopaedic and neurological testing which may also include assessment of different areas of the body. For example, symptoms in your lower arm may be linked to the nerves in your neck, therefore other areas may need to be examined. During the assessment you will be asked to perform some simple movements that may reproduce your pain. You will be guided through this and recommended to stop if pain occurs. You may refuse any part of the assessment and treatment you are not comfortable with. It is possible that you may feel some discomfort for up to 48 hours after treatment. Your osteopath will inform you of any risks and benefits before commencing treatment to help you decide which management options are best for you. If you are concerned about any effects of treatment, you should discuss with/contact your osteopath for more advice. We offer telehealth (online) care if for any reason you are unable to make an in-person appointment. Your osteopath will take you through a full case history and assessment to help diagnose your condition or inform alternative care options. You will be offered guidance on self-management which may also include prescriptive exercises and modifications of tasks and activities.

Loose and comfortable clothing such as leggings, shorts, vests, and t-shirts, are most suitable. It may be appropriate, although not essential, to remove some clothing during examination and treatment but all patients have the right to decline and remain dressed.

It is helpful if you bring the following to your appointment. A list of current medication including dosage and last review dates. Any MRI, CT, X-ray's, or blood test results (you can request these from your GP or consultant). Any prescriptive exercise programmes given to you by NHS physiotherapists. Please note that anyone attending under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Please read our policies and procedures document for more information on chaperones and consent.

Please prepare to pay at the time of your appointments. Cash and card payments are accepted. See other FAQ's for cancellation and private insurance policies.

Osteopathy is covered by most major insurance companies; however, you will be expected to pay at the time of treatment, and we shall issue receipts for you to claim back from your insurance provider. Please check your policy before commencing treatment to make sure that osteopathy is covered and how many sessions you are allocated. Failure to do so may result in you not being reimbursed for your sessions.

A 50% fee is applicable if 24 hours’ notice is not given by phone or email. Repeat occurrences may be charged the full appointment fee. Patients MUST cancel if they are unwell with coughs, colds, respiratory or gastric viruses. Failure to do so will result in no treatment being given and the patient may be required to pay the full appointment fee.

Written consent from your oncologist/consultant will need to be obtained prior to commencing any treatments. Please speak to a member of our team if you have any further questions.