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Treatment
Osteopathy is an established recognised system of diagnosis and treatment that looks at the structure and function of the body. It looks at the whole body and not just the symptoms.
People are individuals and everybody is unique, different body types, diet, lifestyle, occupations, medical/ personal history, physical and mental stresses.
When all of the above are balanced, the body functions well. But when there is an imbalance stresses are produced on joints, muscles, circulation, nerve tissue and it is this dysfunction which leads to symptoms throughout the body.
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Paul’s aim is to identify the area of dysfunction and then assist the body to correct it. He will take a full case history, including information on medication, previous problems, accidents, illness, operations and lifestyle, how and when the problem started and what affects it.
Any previous x-rays or tests results you may have, please bring them along to the appointment. |
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We are happy for patients to bring along a relative or friend as a chaperone. For patients under the age of 16, we will insist that a relative or guardian over the age of 18 must be present during all consultations.
The patient will usually be asked to undress to their underwear. Patients who feel uncomfortable can either wear shorts and a t shirt or, if they prefer, to wear their normal clothes
Blood pressure and reflexes may be taken if required, then structural assessments will be performed.
An examination will be performed, which may include any of the below if required:
 Orthopaedic tests (joints and bones)
Neurological (nerves)
Cardiovascular (heart and circulation)
Respiratory (lungs)
Visceral/Gastro intestinal
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The area of dysfunction would normally be put through a range of movements so that an assessment of the area can be made. After all of the tests have been completed a diagnosis would be formulated and discussed with the patient.
The treatment will then be explained to the patient and, if agreed by the patient, the treatment will commence |
Sometimes two or three treatments may be required before we have an idea of how many treatments will be required. Usually as the problem improves intervals between treatment will increase.
Some patients find that having a regular treatment monthly, bi-monthly or possibly 4 times a year help to keep them on track with their posture and exercises.
Osteopaths use their hands to treat the patient, treatments may include soft tissue massage, stretching of muscles and connective tissue, articulation of joints and high velocity thrust techniques to improve the movement and range of the joint. Gentle release techniques are often used when treating children, or elderly patients.
Treatment is designed to reduce symptoms, improve mobility and to prevent reoccurrences.
Number of Treatments
Depending on the type and nature of a problem, the number of treatments will vary with each patient. A chronic or long term problem which has been neglected for many years, may require ongoing treatment. Acute problems may require just a few treatments. As symptoms improve, distance between treatments would increase. Each osteopathic treatment that you have will build on previous treatments.
All personal and clinical information is recorded and stored in the strictest confidence (in compliance with the Data Protection Act).
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