Before any examination and treatment is carried out you will be asked some questions about yourself – we need to know about your health, past and present, and you will be asked more detailed questions about your symptoms and their history, your medical history (including operations and illnesses) and any medication you are taking (both prescribed and “over the counter”). Although some questions may seem unnecessary, all this information is important and helps us to make a diagnosis and develop a suitable treatment plan for you. All case histories are completely confidential and will not be released without your consent. This also applies to any conversations that take place during treatment.
Once we have all the information we need we will move onto examining you. In order to do a full examination you will normally be asked to undress to your underwear so we can see not only the area which is causing problems, but also other areas which may be related to your condition.
We ask that you wear appropriate underwear so that you are comfortable. You may like to consider wearing shorts, track suit bottoms, vest tops and/or camisoles. We appreciate that undressing can be concerning and something that you may be embarrassed about – please do not be. Don’t forget, you can always bring a friend or relation into the treatment room. If you are concerned about undressing, please discuss this with us and we will work with you to ensure that we are able to examine and treat you sufficiently whilst respecting your wishes.
You may be asked to perform certain movements and certain tests may be carried out (i.e. reflexes, blood pressure) in order to help us understand and assess your condition.
We will discuss our assessment with you, and in most cases some treatment will be given. Treatment is hands-on and will involve articulation and mobilisation of joints and stretching of muscles. Please remember that we are working together with you and that if you find any treatment technique uncomfortable or painful, please do not be afraid to tell your practitioner to stop. We know many different treatment techniques and we will tailor make each treatment for you.
As treatment is hands-on and we are effectively getting your body to move differently, you may experience some aches, stiffness and feeling a bit “bruised” afterwards. This is completely normal, but if you are concerned, please do not hesitate to call us so that we can reassure you.
Advice may be given to you to support the treatment. Prevention may also be discussed relating to posture and lifestyle.
At the end of your first visit you will be given a welcome pack which includes further leaflets about what to expect following your treatment and advice on what changes you can make, and your next appointment will be made.
