Osteopathic FAQ
Acupuncture FAQ
OSTEOPATHY
It is not necessary to be referred by your GP but it is better to keep your GP informed of any treatment you are undergoing. Sometimes we will ask for your consent to write to your GP if we require further information about any investigations you have had. Some health insurance companies require referral before they will cover your costs.
HOW LONG IS THE APPOINTMENT AND HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
Adults
The first consultation and treatment takes 40 -60 minutes and costs £38.
Subsequent treatments take 30-40 minutes and cost £32.
Children
The first consultation and treatment takes approximately 40 minutes and costs £38.
Subsequent treatments take approximately 20 minutes and cost £16.
We ask you to give us feedback during the treatment, so that your comfort can be maximised. If you feel uncomfortable with any of the techniques used we can change our approach or you can request us not to do specific techniques.
Generally, treatment is a relaxing, pleasant experience. Some patients feel particularly relaxed and sleepy with Cranial Osteopathy. There can be some mild discomfort with the massage and manipulation but people often describe it as 'a nice pain' because they can feel their symptoms easing.
Osteopaths are trained in clinical skills used in medicine, so we know when you need to be referred to your GP. We know which techniques to apply safely to various age groups and conditions.
HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL I NEED?
This varies depending on your age, general health and how long you have suffered from the condition. The longer you have had a problem the more sessions you are likely to require. On average adults require 4-6 sessions and babies and children 3 sessions. If your symptoms are not showing signs of improving we will refer you on.
HOW EARLY CAN I BRING MY BABY FOR TREATMENT?
The youngest patient we have treated was 6 months premature, there is no age restriction.
IS OSTEOPATHY INSURED BY MAJOR HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS?
Our Osteopaths are registered with BUPA, PPP, HSA and other healthcare providers. As always you should check out the policy and its terms and conditions with regard to making any kind of claim before undertaking treatments.
ACUPUNCTURE
The first treatment may take longer as the acupuncturist will take notes about your general health and state of affairs. They will ask about any medication that is being taken and take your pulse and blood pressure too.
Initial visits can take up to 1.5 hours; subsequent treatments may take between 30 and 45 minutes.
Practitioners like their patients to avoid a heavy meal before an appointment and to avoid drinking particularly alcohol and coffee being drinks that colour your tongue, as your tongue is examined for its colour.
HOW MANY TREATMENTS WILL BE NEEDED?
Generally, a course may be required, but usually there should be an improvement noticed in your condition after 4 – 6 acupuncture treatments.
The initial session will involve a diagnosis and costs £32. Subsequent treatments cost £30.
Most patients describe the experience as feeling some initial tingling when needles are inserted.
Practitioners use pre-sterilised disposable needles, which are disposed of after each treatment. Needles vary in size according to the locations they are inserted around the body. Larger needles used in buttocks for example, smaller in the nape of the neck.
IS ACUPUNCTURE INSURED BY MAJOR HEALTH PROVIDERS INSURANCE PLANS?
Like a number of other complementary and alternative medicines (CAM), acupuncture is generally listed by the major health insurance providers. Check out the policy and its terms and conditions with regard to making any kind of claim before undertaking treatments.