When visiting an osteopath for the first time, a case history is taken which may include orthopaedic, neurological or circulatory examination and a postural assessment is performed to ascertain the problem and the treatment plan for that individual. After the initial treatment, advice will be given and some idea of the time-scale of your recovery.

Osteopaths use physical techniques such as articulation, gentle joint manipulation, soft tissue massage and resistance stretching (MET), cranial treatment and functional treatment to assist you to achieve normal pain free movement and function by correcting underlying dysfunctions. Slow release techniques are commonly used in the elderly and the very young, to ensure that the treatment is both safe and comfortable.

The initial treatment will last up to one hour, with subsequent treatments lasting appproximately 30 minutes.

Most complaints can be resolved within 1-6 treatments. Chronic, complex conditions may require further treatment as the body will often create compensatory patterns to cope.

Christian has experience working with people of all ages and activity levels. Part of his treatment includes a thorough explanation of your injury so you can complete your rehabilitation with confidence knowing what (and what not) to do.

In order to assess posture fully it may be necessary to remove some clothing but underwear is left on at all times. Should you feel worried about this then wearing cycling shorts and a small vest is fine.

Taking the case history and assessing the problem gives the osteopath a guide as to how much pain you are in. Treatment is then adapted to your particular problem and so should not cause pain. However, sometimes after soft tissue massage and manipulation it is common for it to take 1-2 days for your symptoms to improve and you may still experience some soreness. This is part of the normal healing process.