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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AN OSTEOPATH AND A CHIROPRACTOR?
Osteopaths and Chiropractors can be quite similar, and both will have completed a masters university degree to be qualified in their profession. A basic summary is that Osteopathy tends to look at the whole body and how pain interrelates between different areas - for example why your neck pain might be caused by your shoulders or mid back or even lower back. This means we are qualified to treat and assess all areas of the body, and will give you hands on treatments and exercises according to this. Chiropractors often have shorter appointments focusing on spinal adjustments, and how dysfunction mostly originates from the spine and the nervous system. However, it's important to visit the practitioner that helps you the most, rather than the profession!
WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AN OSTEOPATH AND A PHYSIOTHERAPIST?
Osteopaths and Physiotherapists are again quite similar. We are most similar to private MSK specialist physios, rather than the physios who work within the NHS for example. Physiotherapists tend to use a more exercise-based approach and use less hands on treatment.
DO OSTEOPATHS JUST TREAT BACK PAIN?
Absolutely not! Whilst back pain is a very common problem we see, we are also qualified, and have experience, in treating all areas of the body from headaches and neck pain down to ankle sprains and plantar fascitis. If you have any type of aches or pains please come and see us to help! Additionally we can help with rehab, exercises, stress relief, relaxing, lifestyle advice, nutrition information, or just somewhere to escape to!
WHAT DO I WEAR TO AN OSTEOPATHY APPOINTMENT?
For the initial consultation you may be asked to undress down to your underwear for a short time as part of the first assessment. Please bring a pair of shorts with you to wear if this would make you feel more comfortable. Otherwise, loose fitting clothes are perfect. Your dignity and privacy will always be valued.
WHAT LOCATIONS DO YOU ACCEPT PATIENTS FROM?
We see patients from all over North Somerset and Bristol, including: Portishead, Clevedon, Nailsea, Backwell, Long Ashton, Weston-Super-Mare, Yatton, Congresbury, Somerset, Avonmouth, Pill and more!
HOW MANY OSTEOPATHY APPOINTMENTS WILL I NEED BEFORE I FEEL BETTER?
Every person is different, and every treatment is different. Some people may respond very quickly to treatments, and others may take a little longer. We will never ask you to pre-book multiple appointments or sign up to any payment plans. Our aim is to get you back to your life as pain-free as possible.
DO I NEED A DOCTOR’S REFERRAL TO HAVE OSTEOPATHY TREATMENT?
You do not need to be referred by anyone to see an Osteopath privately. Your doctor may suggest to see an Osteopath if you have told them of your symptoms.
Occasionally a patient presents with medical symptoms that are not able to be treated by an Osteopath. Osteopaths are highly trained in the detection of these symptoms, and you will be referred to the appropriate medical professional before treatment starts.
DOES OSTEOPATHY TREATMENT HURT?
Treatment ranges from all types of techniques such as gentle soft tissue release, to more firmer manipulations and mobilisations. If you are in pain, working on those areas may feel a little tender, but we will never push you past an uncomfortable limit and all treatments are performed for optimal recovery. We will check how you are feeling regularly throughout the appointment, and you will be encouraged to feedback if anything doesn't feel right.
WHAT TYPES OF HEALTH INSURANCE DO YOU ACCEPT?
We are registered with a number of health insurance companies including WPA, AXA, Aviva, Cigna and Vitality. More info can be found here
HOW WILL MY INFORMATION REMAIN CONFIDENTIAL?
All osteopathy content discussed during the appointments will be written down as patient notes for the safety of both you and myself. This will be stored onto your online patient file which is part of the online booking system. This is a password protected website that only practitioners can access.