New Patient Guide
Welcome
Visiting an osteopath for the first time can feel unfamiliar, and it’s natural to have questions. This guide explains what osteopathy is, what happens during your appointment, and what you can expect from your care.
Helpful Osteopathy Advice
What Is Osteopathy?
Osteopathy is a form of healthcare that focuses on helping you move more comfortably and confidently. By assessing how your body moves and functions as a whole, osteopathy aims to reduce pain, improve mobility, and support your overall wellbeing. Treatment is always tailored to the individual, taking into account your symptoms, lifestyle, health history, and personal goals.
What can osteopathy help with?
✅ Back pain ✅ Neck pain and stiffness ✅ Shoulder pain ✅ Hip and knee pain ✅ Sciatica ✅ Sports and exercise-related injuries ✅ Muscle and joint aches ✅ Postural tension ✅ Reduced mobility and stiffness ✅ Recovery following injury ✅ Pregnancy-related aches and pains
What happens during my first appointment?
Your first appointment is all about understanding you, your symptoms, and your goals. We’ll start with a friendly conversation about what has brought you in, how your symptoms are affecting you, and any relevant medical history. Next, I’ll carry out an assessment of your movement, posture, and the areas that may be contributing to your discomfort. This helps build a clear picture of what’s going on and how we can best support you. If appropriate, treatment may begin during the same appointment. I’ll also take the time to explain my findings, answer any questions you have, and discuss a personalised plan tailored to your needs. Most importantly, there’s no pressure and no judgement. My aim is to create a relaxed, supportive environment where you feel heard, understood, and confident about the next steps in your care. Simply put: we’ll listen, assess, explain, and work together to help you move forward with confidence.
What should I wear?
Please wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move easily. For your appointment, it’s helpful to bring a pair of shorts and a small towel, as these may be needed during the assessment and treatment. I may need to observe how you move and assess the area causing your symptoms, so clothing that is easy to change in and out of is ideal. Depending on the area being examined, you may be asked to remove a layer of clothing, but your comfort, privacy, and dignity will always be respected. If you’re unsure, think of what you might wear for light exercise. Comfortable, practical clothing, along with shorts and a towel, is perfect.
How Many Appointments Will I Need?
The number of appointments varies from person to person and depends on factors such as your symptoms, overall health, and treatment goals. Some people seek help for a recent issue and may only require a small number of sessions, while longer-standing concerns may benefit from ongoing support. Following your assessment, I’ll discuss my findings and provide recommendations tailored to your individual needs.
Is Osteopathy Safe?
Osteopaths in the UK are regulated healthcare professionals. Before any treatment takes place, a thorough assessment is carried out to ensure osteopathic care is appropriate for you. If I believe another healthcare professional is better placed to help, I will always discuss this with you and guide you towards the most appropriate care.
Do I Need A Referral?
No. Most patients book directly without a referral. However, if you have been referred by your GP, consultant, physiotherapist, or another healthcare professional, I will be happy to work alongside them where appropriate.
How Quickly Might I Feel Better?
Many patients notice some improvement within the first few appointments, while others may take longer depending on their symptoms, overall health, and how long the problem has been present. Any recommendations for further treatment will always be based on your individual needs and goals. My aim is to provide the right amount of care to help you move forward, not more treatment than you need.
Will I Receive Exercises?
Where appropriate, you may receive a personalised exercise programme to support your recovery between appointments. Exercises are selected specifically for your needs and can be accessed through easy-to-follow video demonstrations, allowing you to continue your progress at home with confidence.
Can Osteopathy Replace Medical Care?
No. Osteopathy is designed to work alongside medical care, not replace it. If your symptoms require medical assessment or treatment, I will always advise you to seek the appropriate care. Osteopathy can play a valuable role in helping you manage pain, improve movement, and support your overall wellbeing as part of your healthcare journey.
Still Have Questions?
If you’re unsure whether osteopathy is right for you, feel free to get in touch. I’ll be happy to discuss your concerns and help you decide whether treatment may be appropriate for your needs.
Contact Me
hello@iorgaosteopathy.com
07436 726 796