Your first consultation will last for approximately 45 minutes to an hour. A full and thorough case history will be taken; this will include details of not only the presenting complaint, but any previous history of problems or injuries.

Full medical details are important as it is vital to exclude other potential causes of your complaint, to recognise when treatment may not be indicated, or identify early signs of other conditions.

A physical examination will follow the case history; the extent of this will depend on the problem. Please wear loose comfortable clothing, the examination usually requires the removal of enough clothing to make a full and proper assessment of the problem area and related areas, and will include an assessment of mobility, posture and an examination of joints and muscles. Other more specific orthopaedic or neurological tests may be performed if necessary. During the assessment your osteopath will also be looking for contributory factors to any problem, which means that treatment may address other areas and include advice on posture, exercise, and lifestyle to assist with recovery and help prevent recurrence of symptoms.