OSTEOPATHIC MUSCULOSKELETAL CLINIC Solihull | Henley In Arden | Birmingham
Tel: 01564330773 Clinic: 07966317712 Email: info@dynamicosteopaths.com
Dynamic Osteopaths FAQ:
05
Q: What is the difference between an osteopath and a chiropractor?
A: The real difference is just the title. Both osteopaths and chiropractors have both levels of training of a 4/5 year degree, which primarily focuses on clinical medicine, musculoskeletal medicine, musculoskeletal dysfunction, and clinical neuroscience. The only difference is the philosophy between the two disciplines somewhat differs.
Q: What is osteopathy?
A: Osteopathy is a primary care profession, focusing on the diagnosis, treatment, prevention and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal disorders, and the effects of these conditions on patients' general health. Using many of the diagnostic procedures applied in conventional medical assessment, osteopaths seek to restore the optimal functioning of the body, where possible without the use of drugs or surgery. Osteopathy is based on the principle of homeostasis and focuses on strengthening the musculoskeletal systems to treat existing conditions and to prevent illness.
Osteopaths' patient-centered approach to health and well-being means they consider symptoms in the context of the patient's full medical history, as well as their lifestyle and personal circumstances. This holistic approach ensures that all treatment is tailored to the individual patient.
Common conditions seen at Dynamic Osteopaths are typically low back pain, posture-related neck pain, varied sports injuries and joint pain related to degenerative arthritis.
Q: What do osteopaths treat?
A: Osteopathy focuses on the diagnosis, management, treatment and prevention of musculoskeletal and other related disorders without the use of drugs or surgery. Commonly treated conditions include back pain and neck pain, postural problems, sporting injuries, muscle, and joint deterioration, restricted mobility and occupational ill-health.
Q: What can I expect on my first visit to an osteopath?
A: The osteopath will compile a full case history of symptoms and lifestyle. a physical assessment will then take place to help achieve a diagnosis. You will usually be asked to remove some clothing near the area of the body to be examined.
Osteopaths are trained to examine areas of the body using highly-developed palpation, to determine conditions and identify areas of restriction. Osteopathy is a 'package' of care that includes skilled mobilising and manipulative techniques, reinforced by guidance on diet and exercise.
Q: Can I see an osteopath on the NHS?
A: Access to osteopathy on the NHS is varied with services are becoming more widespread as commissioning authorities to recognize the benefits to patients. To find out if NHS treatment is available in your area, speak to your GP and/or contact your local primary care trust.
There is more information on whom to contact in your region on the NHS website at www.nhs.uk or http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Osteopathy/Pages/Introduction.aspx
Q: Can I claim through my medical insurance?
A: Yes. Many private health insurance policies provide cover for osteopathic treatment. It may be possible to claim for a course of treatment but you should check in advance with your insurance company before seeking osteopathic treatment, in order to confirm the available level of cover and whether you will need to have a referral from your GP.
Q: Do I need a GP referral to see an osteopath?
A: Most patients 'self refer' to an osteopath for treatment. Although referral by a GP is not necessary, patients are encouraged to keep both their GP and osteopath fully informed, so that their medical records are current and complete and the patient receives the best possible care from both healthcare practitioners.
Q: Do GP's refer their patients to osteopaths?
A: Yes. GPs refer patients to osteopaths where they believe this intervention would be beneficial. Referral guidelines are provided by the General Medical Council and the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE).
Q: Do osteopaths offer home visits?
A: Some osteopaths do offer home visits as part of their service. You can check the UK Statutory Register of Osteopaths, which is available on this website and provides information about home visits, or ask the osteopath directly.
Q: How do I know if an osteopath is registered?
A: All osteopaths must be registered with the General Osteopathic Council. You can use the Register to check whether your health professional is currently registered.
Q: Can anyone call themselves an osteopath?
A: The title 'osteopath' is protected by law, and only those included on the Register are entitled to practice as osteopaths. Unregistered practice is a criminal offense in the UK.
Q: What educational training do osteopaths have?
A: Undergraduate students follow a five-year degree course combining academic and clinical work. Qualification generally takes the form of a bachelor’s degree in osteopathy – a BSc(Hons), BOstMed – or a masters degree in osteopathy (MOst). Many osteopaths continue their studies after graduating.
Q: Who sets the standards of training and practice for osteopaths?
A: The standards of osteopathic training and practice are maintained and developed by the General Osteopathic Council, the profession’s statutory regulator established under the Osteopaths Act 1993.
Q: How much does it cost for an osteopath?
A: Consultations range from £40-60, which includes diagnosis and treatment. Follow-ups range from £30-40, depending on the level of expertise.
Q: What do osteopaths do?
A: Osteopaths focus on the joints, muscles, nerves and the spine. Osteopathic treatment can help treat arthritis, back pain, headaches, tennis elbow, nerve issues, and postural problems. Treatment can also assist with sleep cycles and the nervous, circulatory, and lymphatic symptoms
Q: Can an osteopath help with sciatica?
: Sciatica is, in fact, the most common condition to why someone would consult an osteopath. Osteopaths spend every working day dealing with and treating sciatica through modalities of treatment via manual therapy. This is hands-on treatment, consisting of spinal mobilisations and manipulation.
Patient Comments & Feedback
'"I was thoroughly pleased with the level of treatment I received"
"The clinic was easy to find and the facilities were great"
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