Frequently Asked Questions​

Generally osteopaths will look more ‘holistically’ at the body maybe treating one area of the body to affect another. 
They may take a look at how your body moves as a whole and they will tend to (though not always) use more hands on techniques.
 
Physiotherapists will look at the local area of injury and may typically provide exercise based rehabilitation (this will vary from case to case). Historically physiotherapists may have used more technologies such as ultrasound, or other techniques such as acupuncture, 
but this does vary a lot from practitioner to practitioner.
 
Both professions are highly qualified, dedicated people who are focussed on improving their patients’ lives. 
The slight difference in view point and treatment methods often means they can work very well together.
Physiotherapists undertake many years of training and have a detailed understanding of how the body works. Chartered Physiotherapists study full-time for three of four years at University. During this time they will complete over 1000 hours of clinical practice in a number of different specialities. They promote good health by encouraging their patients to follow the advice they have given with reference to maintaining physical functions of the body. Physio First Physio First is the Organisation of Chartered Physiotherapists in Private Practice it is an occupational group of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy and as such is formally recognised by the Council of Chartered Society as representing the interests of its self-employed members. The Health Professional Council (HPC) The Health Professional Council is the regulatory body for many health professions. Under current law only qualified people are registered with the Health Professional Council. The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy is the professional, educational and trade union body of the UK’s 47,000 Chartered Physiotherapists and physiotherapy students and assistants. All Physiotherapists are members of the CSP and will have either MCSP (Member of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapists) or FCSP (Fellow of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy.

Osteopathy is a form of manual therapy that is suitable for a wide range of conditions and age groups. Osteopathy aims to improve range of motion, reduce pain, encourage fluid dynamics and address the body as a whole.

A range of techniques are used including gentle mobility movements, soft tissue techniques and also more focused manipulations. Not all elements of osteopathic treatment are suitable for every patient, so a full case history is taken and thorough assessment at the start of appointments to establish the best treatment plan for the individual. You may be asked to dress down to underwear for assessment, but if this is not something you’re comfortable with, bring along some shorts and a vest top.

Osteopathic treatment is not limited only to back pain or sports injuries, we can treat the whole body, also including digestive problems, migraine prevention and arthritic pain.

If you are a self paying patient or use an insurance company, and you do not attend an appointment without letting us know within 24hrs, then you may be charged the full cost of the appointment.

Pain is your body’s way of telling you that something is wrong. It is often caused by the swelling of tissue, which creates pressure on the nerves and leads to discomfort. This is important to know as pain is a useful mechanism to alert you to a problem, and stops you from damaging your body further. It should always, therefore, be taken seriously. Pain can affect many areas of the body, and particularly the lower back, head, neck, joints and legs. It can result from injuries and arthritis, and can also manifest itself in the form of rheumatic and period pain.

You do not need a doctor’s referral to receive physiotherapy. If you would like to make a self paying appointment then please telephone the clinic. The clinic also deals with most Private Medical Insurance Companies.

On your first visit to the clinic the physiotherapist/Osteopath will assess the issue.

Your Physio appointment will last 45 minutes for your assessment and any follow up appointment will be 30 minutes.

Your Osteopathy appointment will last 60 minutes for your assessment and any follow up appointment will be 30 minutes.

After your first visit your physiotherapists/Ostaopath should be able to tell you approximately how many sessions you will need. However, in some cases this may not be possible.

Usually after the physiotherapist/Osteopath has assessed the problem they will give you treatment on the same day.

The physiotherapist/Osteopath will explain this to you after you have had your first appointment.

Please wear comfortable clothing that you are able to remove quickly should this be required.

If you are a private patient, you can find our full list of prices here. Alternatively, you may be having treatment paid for by an Insurance company.

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