Frequently Asked Questions

What happens during an osteopathic session?

During an initial consultation, I will start by asking you various questions about you, your health and your symptoms. I may ask questions that don't seem relevant to your symptoms but this is to ensure I understand the origin of the pain and what other external factors may be contributing to it. After the case history, I will ask you to undress so I can see the relevant body part. I will assess your posture, your gait and movements. I may then ask you to lie on your side, back or your stomach depending on what you can tolerate and what needs to be treated. At the end, we will discuss management techniques and I may give you some exercises for you to do after our appointment. I am always happy to receive any questions before and after an appointment so feel free to contact me via the form below or via text/whatsapp.

Do I need to see my GP before seeing an Osteopath?

No you don't need a referral as osteopaths in the UK are recognised as primary healthcare practitioners, so you can see me immediately. However I may refer you back to your registered surgery/GP if I believe your symptoms need to be further investigated. Osteopathy in this area is not currently funded by the NHS so you will be required to pay for treatment, please see my price list page for more information.

Can I bring someone with me to the appointment?

Off course! You are more than welcome to bring another person to accompany you during the appointment. However, if you are under the age of 16, you will need to have a parent or legal guardian with you.

What do I need to wear to my appointment?

As with any healthcare appointment, I will need to see and touch the body areas that are symptomatic, so it may be necessary for me to ask you to remove your clothes. However, if you feel uncomfortable undressing to your underwear, I suggest you wear shorts and a t-shirt, enabling me to work effectively. I am always open to talk and will always take your considerations into account.

Will treatment hurt?

I always try to make the treatment as painless as possible as most osteopathic techniques are gentle. Although it is possible for you to experience some discomfort during and after treatment. I will do my best to warn you about potential pain, and I will stop the technique at any point if you are not comfortable.

What happens during an animal osteopathy session?

Both canine and equine appointments follow a similar routine:

Case History: Understanding your animal’s health history and potential goals
Gait: Assessing posture and gait to help me identify any asymmetries or restrictions
Examination and Treatment: Conducting a full examination of the limbs and spine, followed by appropriate treatment techniques.
Management: Discussing further management based on your animal’s needs and goals.

Do I need a vet referral before seeing an animal osteopath?

In November 2020, the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons issued the following guidance to all vets across the country: Musculoskeletal maintenance care for a healthy animal… does not require delegation by a veterinary surgeon. An animal declared healthy by the owner, in cases where care is given to maintain good health and optimise competition performance, can be seen without specific Veterinary referral with the caveats stated. This covers the areas of Maintenance care and Competition care”

This means permission to treat animals will only be asked where there is a known injury or disease that is related to the reason I have been asked to treat the animal. If I do need a vet referral, I will send a form to your registered practice.

What is my cancellation policy?

Please note the late cancellation 24 hours before the appointment and missed appointment fee will be half the price of the full appointment, which I will charge at my discretion. If you cannot make the appointment please do get in touch with me soon as you can. This way I can organise myself and we can find a better time or date that suits you.

HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?

Contact telephone number

07473 360 675

Email

sonia.osteopathy@outlook.com

Feel free to send me a message either via the form, by text or email and I will get back to you as soon as I can.