Frequently asked questions

Questions, answered

1. What is osteopathy and how does it work?

   Osteopathy is a hands-on therapy that treats problems with the muscles, joints and nerves. Vincent uses gentle joint articulation, manipulation and soft-tissue techniques to reduce pain, improve mobility and help the body heal itself.
2. What happens during my first appointment?

   The first appointment starts with a full case history and a physical assessment: posture, movement, and tests specific to your complaint. Vincent then explains what he has found and, if osteopathy is appropriate, begins hands-on treatment in the same session.
3. Does treatment hurt?

   Osteopathic treatment is generally not painful. Some techniques may cause brief discomfort where the tissue is already sensitive, and it is common to feel a little tender or tired for a day after treatment as the body adjusts.
4. How many sessions will I need?

   It depends on the condition, how long it has been there, and how the body responds. Many acute problems settle in one to three sessions; longer-standing complaints may need a short course of treatment plus home exercises.
5. Do I need a GP referral?

   No. You can book directly. If your condition needs a scan, a second opinion or a different professional, Vincent will tell you and, where appropriate, write to your GP.
6. Would my condition get better on its own?

   This depends on the condition you have and what you mean by "better". It is well documented that inflammation, which is one of the main causes of pain, will often subside within forty-eight to seventy-two hours. However, untreated strains and injuries cause the body to lay down scar tissue and lose flexibility — increasing the risk of re-injury without proper treatment.
7. What is a slipped disc?

   This is when one of the discs, which separates one vertebra from another, is injured and its wall bulges like that of a bicycle tyre. The bulge can press on nearby nerves, causing arm pain (brachial neuralgia) when it occurs in the neck, or posterior leg and thigh pain (sciatica) when it occurs in the lower back.
8. How long is a treatment?

   Initial and subsequent consultations last 30 minutes.
9. What should I wear?

   Wear loose clothing such as a pair of shorts or leggings and a baggy t-shirt — this allows the practitioner to examine and treat the affected area easily.
10. Is there parking available?

    Yes — there is free parking on the road next to the practice.