FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS.
These are some of the frequently asked questions that Ed and Mariska have been asked during their time as Osteopaths.
FAQ'S
Is Osteopathy regulated?
Do Osteopaths just treat back problems?
Osteopaths complete complex training, giving them the skills to treat all body regions from heads to toes! Osteopaths are holistic in their approach so will commonly address stiffness and tightness in multiple areas during your treatment
Do I have to get undressed at my appointment?
It is helpful for the Osteopath to be able to see, move, and treat your problem area easily without clothing getting in the way. As such you may be asked to remove outer layers of clothing or to partially undress e.g. remove a t-shirt. Flexible, thin clothing such as vest tops and leggings or shorts are ideal to wear for treatment without the need to undress. If you are uncomfortable with undressing then please let your Osteopath know and they will work through your clothing.
How many treatment sessions will I need?
The amount of sessions needed varies depending on your problem, your self care, and response to treatment. Your condition may be significantly improved in one session and you may not need further visits, or you may need several treatments, especially in the case of long term / chronic conditions. An average patient requires 3-8 sessions. We pride ourselves in getting you back to health in the fewest number of treatments possible.
Do I need to be referred by my GP to have Osteopathic treatment?
You can self refer for osteopathic treatment if you are paying for it yourself, without the need to see your doctor first. Some insurance companies may require you to see a doctor prior to treatment. Osteopathy isn’t widely available on the NHS, and as such most patients come for treatment without being referred by their GP.
Will treatment be covered by my health insurance?
Most private health insurance companies provide cover for osteopathic treatment. If you are unsure about whether your insurance covers Osteopathy treatment or how much cover you have, please contact your health insurer before starting treatment. Unfortunately the clinic does not currently work with BUPA.
Do you have parking?
Yes, there is free car parking available at Tadcaster Leisure Centre for patients of the clinic. There is also good disabled access for patients.
Can I come for treatment whilst waiting for my musculoskeletal referral to come through?
Yes, many patients decide to come for treatment whilst they are on the waiting list for musculoskeletal services. Many also decide to continue with Osteopathic treatment alongside their NHS treatment
Can I bring a friend or relative to my appointment?
Yes, but please try to limit this to one person. If you are feeling nervous about coming to your appointment please bring a chaperone with you. Should you not be able to come with one then your appointment can be rearranged for another time.
Will I be sore after treatment?
You may feel some stiffness or be a little sore following osteopathic treatment. This is normal and is a good response from your body. The symptoms will usually subside within 24 to 48 hours. Your practitioner will tell you what to expect following treatment and how best to manage any discomfort. Your osteopath may recommend using heat, ice, or stretches to help.
Is treatment safe?
Osteopathy is a safe, gentle form of hands-on treatment. There are some medical conditions which increase the risks of receiving manual therapy, which your Osteopath will screen you for in your health history and examination. If there are additional risks associated with any techniques then your Osteopath will talk these through with you before providing treatment, and alternative techniques can be used if you wish.
What is the difference between an Osteopath, Physiotherapist, and a Chiropractor? Who should I see for my problem?
What is Osteopathy training like?
Osteopaths train for a minimum of four years to degree level, achieving either a Bachelor of Science (BSc) or Integrated Masters (MOst). Osteopathy degrees cover a range of topics including Anatomy, Physiology, Pathology, Pharmacology, Nutrition, and Biomechanics. Osteopathy students spend a long time learning examination and treatment techniques, and spend at least 1000 hours gaining clinical experience with patients prior to registration.
Osteopaths are recognised by the NHS as Allied Health Professionals, and play a critical role in providing musculoskeletal services to patients of all ages.
How have things changed at the clinic in light of COVID-19?
Its our top priority to keep our patients as safe as possible at this time. As such we have made the following changes
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All used items and surfaces will be disinfected between patients -
The osteopath will wear personal protective equipment in line with government guidelines. -
We will check our own, and every patient’s temperature on arrival. -
Hand sanitiser will be readily available for patients to use -
Patients will be pre-screened for symptoms of COVID-19 prior to attending the clinic
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Kindly wait outside the building. The osteopath will come and meet you at the time of your appointment. Please do not enter the building without a mask and without your osteopath checking your temperature. -
Please come alone if possible and wear a face mask (if you suffer from conditions affecting your respiratory system – like hay fever or asthma, please wear a fluid resistant mask). -
If you require an extra person to come in with you, we ask them to wear a face mask too. -
Make use of hand sanitising facilities -
Please pay by card (contactless payment would be better still).