What happens at my first osteopathic consultation?
Firstly we will talk about what brings you to the clinic, and I will ask you specific questions to gather your medical history. It’s important for me to have the whole picture in mind when I treat you, and for me to know what medications you are on, what surgeries you’ve had in the past etc even if it doesn’t seem to directly relate to your current issue. Then comes examination which might involve getting you to move in specific ways or going through some orthopedic tests, and treatment on the treatment table. We might also talk about strategies to put in place for your rehab or pain management, exercises or stretches to do at home, etc.
You will be asked if you are comfortable to disrobe. This is to start the examination and treatment. You are under no obligation to do so, your comfort comes first.
There are many reasons osteopaths usually treat patients with their shirt off or just shorts
To be able to identify and avoid putting pressure on unseen bruises, rashes, or varicose veins
To be able to feel better what is happening, when we feel the movement of the connective tissue, muscles and joints
To be able to work directly on skin and use massage creams if we need to do a massage type technique
To keep an eye on the health of your skin - we look out for suspicious moles, which may develop in areas you might not be able to check yourself like your back
What is best to wear?
Comfortable shorts are great, we have some you can change into at clinic if you need, especially if I need to look at your hips or knees.
Sports bras are great, except if I need to work on the mid back. Most of those wearing a bra wear normal ones that un-clips at the back, that way we can un-clip it once you are lying face down to work on the spine directly. I will always ask permission to do this, no stress if you prefer to keep bra or top on, I can always work through the fabric, or around it, if that is your preference.