What to expect when visiting an osteopath?

When you attend your first appointment with us, Liam Halton (our osteopath) will ask you lots of questions in order to take a full case history. You may then be asked to remove or loosen some outer clothing so that he can examine you. Please be assured you only need to remove clothing you feel comfortable removing and if it’s convenient you might like to consider wearing loose clothing such as a tracksuit or shorts when you visit us.  You are also welcome to bring a friend or family member with you to your appointment.

If you are in acute pain remember to wear things that you can easily remove or replace. For example slip-on shoes may be easier to get on and off than lace-ups. A shirt or cardigan may be easier than a sweater if you have a neck or shoulder problem.

Osteopaths have an in-depth knowledge of anatomy and physiology and are trained to understand, through observation and palpation (touch), the state of the skeletal and muscular tissues so Liam will ask you to do certain movements whilst standing and sitting. He will then ask you to lie on a couch in order to continue the examination by palpation. By doing this he will be able to diagnose your problem.

Once he has established a diagnosis he will begin your osteopathic treatment.
Osteopathic treatment is manual. Our osteopath will use his hands to massage, stretch or manipulate as appropriate. If at any time you feel uncomfortable or nervous please say so and Liam will modify your treatment to suit you.

As part of your treatment at Larch Tree, Liam may also include advice on certain activities, exercise and/or diet.

Some conditions may require further investigation before a full diagnosis can be made and if this is the case you may be referred for things like x-rays, MRI scans or blood tests to allow our osteopath to make a decision about the most appropriate treatment for your condition.

If you have any more questions about what to expect when you visit us at Larch Tree Osteopathic Practice, please contact us via telephone or email prior to your visit.