What to expect
Initial consultation
Before starting any treatment, I will carry out an initial assessment of your condition and health. This will include asking you questions and performing a physical examination. This will allow me to determine the best course of care for you.
During our first conversation I will start by finding out about your current problem, for example: When and how it started? How painful is it? What makes it better or worse? Whether it is something you have experienced before? I may then ask other questions about your past medical history, previous injuries or accidents, lifestyle, hobbies, general health or nutrition, as all these things can be relevant to what is going on.
We will then move on to a physical examination. This often includes an assessment of your posture, how well you move, palpating your muscles and also some joint or nerve testing. I may also take your blood pressure. You will usually find that the examination is not limited to the area of discomfort as I will look at how other areas of the body may be contributing to your problem.
Explaining your findings
After we have finished the examination I will talk to you about my findings and what I think we should do next. If this involves treatment I will set out what to expect, the costs of care and treatment options available to you. I will make sure to answer any questions so that you fully understand and are happy with the plan we have made.
If any further investigations such as an X-ray, MRI, ultrasound or blood tests are required, then I will explain why I think these are necessary and how we will go about arranging them. Sometimes we may need to wait for the results of these before we begin treatment, other times they can be arranged alongside starting care.
Occasionally after assessing someone, it may be that am not the right professional to help. If this is the case I will take the time to refer you to someone that can.
Treatment
Once you are happy to continue you will be asked to give your written consent to treatment. This will usually begin in the first session but will depend on your specific problem and whether it is appropriate. However, I will always provide advice and guidance to start you moving forward.
Treatment normally includes hands on manual therapy such as manipulation or mobilisation of joints together with soft tissue work such as massage or stretching work. It may also include, exercise prescription and discussion around other health and lifestyle factors such as stress management or nutrition. For more information please see how I treat.
