FAQs
How long does a treatment last?
Your first visit can last up to an hour, during which a full case history will be taken. You may be asked to undress to your underwear for an examination of your spine, joints and muscle function. If you feel uncomfortable about this please do ask for a gown. This physical examination may include orthopaedic and neurological tests where appropriate, and if necessary, blood pressure and heart and lung function. This history is vital to aid diagnosis and check for signs of any other serious conditions, which may be presenting as a musculoskeletal problem.
Informed consent means giving your permission for treatment from your practitioner. Treatment is a partnership between you and the osteopath. An explanation will be given of what was found on examination; but if you have any further questions please always ask, as it is important for you to understand any information discussed, the possibility of risks associated with your condition and the proposed treatment.
What treatments do you offer?
Osteopaths use a variety of treatments to ensure the correct alignment of your back and muscles, easing muscle tension to restore your body’s natural selfhealing abilities. Osteopathy eases pain, reduces swelling and improves mobility with gentle manual techniques - massage to relax stiff muscles, stretching to mobilise joints, and manipulation to restore easy movement. Manipulation is a skilled specific joint release sometimes associated with an audible click.
Or there are the more subtle cranial - sacral techniques which use a very light touch to effect fascial tension and joint alignment; which is especially effective in treating babies and children, whiplash injuries, sinus, jaw complaints and insomnia.
Alison also uses ultra-sound treatment for tendon/ligament healing, dry needling (a clinical western approach to acupuncture) to aid pain relief and antiinflammatory response and strapping of joints when appropriate. Specific exercises will often be recommended and advice offered to help minimise the problem.
What many treatments will I need?
One or two treatments may be all that is necessary for some acute problems; more chronic problems may take between 4 - 6 treatments. Some people who have a particular recurrent weakness find their symptoms much eased by regular maintenance treatment.
What does it cost?
The first consultation and treatment will last approximately 60 minutes and costs £42. Subsequent treatment sessions are 30 minutes at £29.
Payment is made at the time of treatment, by either cheque or cash. Alison is also registered with most medical insurance companies such as BUPA, PPP and HSA.
