3rd February 2015

What to Expect

Penarth Osteopaths

The team at Penarth Osteopathic Practice are here to help you with a range of osteopathic treatments.

What to expect

Listening and examining

Osteopathy is a patient-centred system of healthcare which means that Osteopathy provides care that is respectful of and responsive to individual patient preferences, needs, and values, ensuring that patient values guide all clinical decisions.

penarth osteopaths

“We Listen, Ask, Examine, Investigate, Treat And
Advise On What Is Best For You.”

treatment room

A first appointment generally lasts about 45 minutes to an hour to allow

The Osteopath Adequate Time To:

  • Listen and ask questions about your problem, your general health, other medical care you are receiving or medication
    you are taking and record this in your case notes.
    The information you provide will be confidential.
  • Examine you properly. It is likely you may be asked to remove some of your clothing or you can bring light clothing like shorts and a t-shirt to wear instead. Tell your osteopath if you
    are uncomfortable with undressing in which case a gown or towel will be provided. You can
    ask a friend or relative to accompany you and be present throughout your treatment or if you do not have someone available you can request for our receptionist to act as your chaperone.
  • As part of the examination you may be asked to make simple movements and stretches to observe your posture and mobility. Because of the body’s structure, pain or stiffness you are experiencing in one part may be linked to a problem elsewhere so it is important for the Osteopath to examine this.
  • Examine the health of the joints, tissues and ligaments using their hands and a highly developed sense of touch called palpation.

As part of the examination you will also be checked for signs of serious conditions that cannot be treated and you may be advised to see your GP or go to hospital.

You may be provided with a letter explaining what is believed to be the problem.

Diagnosis and treatment

Osteopathy specialises in the diagnosis, management, treatment and prevention of musculoskeletal and other related disorders.

You will be given a clear explanation of what was found (the diagnosis) and will discuss a treatment plan that is suitable for you.

The benefits and any risks of the treatment will be explained to you before the treatment is started.

It is important to understand and agree what the treatment can achieve and the likely number of sessions needed for a noticeable improvement in how you feel though this may change as individuals can respond in very different ways.

Treatment is hands-on and involves skilled manipulation of the spine and joints and massage of soft tissues. We will explain what we plan to do and will always ask your permission to treat you (known as consent).

Ask questions at any time if you are unsure what you have been told or if you have any concerns as we will be happy to answer these questions for you.

Self-help measures and advice on exercise may be offered to assist your recovery, prevent recurrence or worsening of symptoms.

Ongoing care

Because of the physical nature of the treatment, it is not unusual to sometimes feel sore in the first 24-48 hours after treatment.

We will explain any likely reactions that you could expect. If you have any concerns it is important to contact us and ask our advice.

It may require more than one visit before your problem is resolved. Your progress will be reviewed at each subsequent visit and your consent sought as to any changes to your treatment plan.

Is referral from a doctor necessary?

Although referral by a GP is not necessary, you are encouraged to keep your GP fully informed, so that your medical records are current and complete.

This will ensure your receive the best possible care from both health professionals. With your consent we may send a report to your GP with details of your condition and treatment. You can also request a letter for your employer if this is helpful.

Talk To Us And Find Out More About How We Can Help You

Book an osteopathic appointment at our Penarth clinic by calling us now on: 029 2070 8350
or book via the widget below.

If you are unsure about how we can help you, the best way is to talk to us to find out.
We are just a phone call away, so do call us now.