What to expect...
in an osteopathic consultation
In the first instance, patients are asked to discuss their symptoms in some detail. Then more general aspects relating to their health are discussed, including any past injuries or illnesses, and ‘environmental’ factors (for example hobbies and work activities). All this information, which is called a ‘case history’, is noted and considered.
Patients are then examined physically. This will include a detailed analysis of the spine, by looking, *touching and moving it. The spine is almost always examined, no matter where your symptoms are, as it is vital in integrating your functional health. Other areas of the body may also be examined, particularly if you are experiencing symptoms there. In order to carry out an examination, the osteopath needs to be able to see the spine, which requires patients to remove outer clothing (down to underwear).
Some additional tests may be conducted if indicated, for example neurological or orthopaedic tests, or taking blood pressure or listening to the heart and lungs. Only tests which can be conducted with basic tools are undertaken – specialist testing like nerve conduction studies are not accessible in an osteopathic clinic.
Having gathered lots of valuable information the osteopath decides on the best course of action, and discusses this with the patient. Providing the patient is in agreement, a treatment protocol can then be implemented. Most of the treatment approaches an osteopath uses are manual, hands on approaches. The osteopath will also offer guidance and advice. Sometimes adjuctive modalities are used (for example ultrasound, or acupuncture needles): this depends on both the patients’ needs, and the osteopath’s preference.
*Osteopaths spend years developing a very skilled sense of touch, called palpation. This is used in both diagnosis and treatment.