Welcome to The Kent Osteopath! We understand that visiting an osteopath for the first time can raise many questions. To help you feel more informed and at ease, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions. If you don’t find the answer you're looking for, feel free to get in touch with us at hello@thekentosteopath.co.uk or call us on 07940 478 065
Osteopathy is a holistic approach to healthcare that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of a wide range of health conditions, particularly musculoskeletal issues. Osteopaths use hands-on techniques to improve the function of your body, relieve pain, and promote overall well-being. Our treatments can help with a variety of conditions, including back pain, joint pain, headaches, and muscle stiffness.
The terms osteopath, chiropractor, and physiotherapist all refer to healthcare professionals who specialise in treating musculoskeletal issues, but their approaches and philosophies differ.
Osteopathy is a holistic approach that focuses on the whole body, emphasising the interrelationship between the muscles, bones, and joints. Osteopaths use a range of techniques, including stretching, massaging, and manipulating the spine and joints, to encourage the body’s natural healing processes. They may also consider factors like posture, lifestyle, and nutrition as part of their treatment. The aim is to improve overall health and relieve pain, often by addressing the underlying causes of discomfort.
Chiropractors primarily focus on diagnosing and treating issues with the spine, particularly misalignments or subluxations, which they believe can cause pain or dysfunction in other parts of the body. The main treatment method used is spinal manipulation or adjustments, aimed at improving spinal alignment and restoring proper function to the nervous system. While chiropractors often treat back pain, they may also address other musculoskeletal complaints.
Physiotherapy is a more general field that focuses on restoring movement and function after injury or illness. Physiotherapists assess and treat a wide range of conditions, not just musculoskeletal, including neurological and respiratory issues. They use exercises, manual therapy, and other techniques such as heat, cold, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation to help patients recover from injury, manage pain, or improve mobility and strength. Physiotherapy is more focused on rehabilitation and improving physical function rather than aligning the spine or holistic health.
Yes, osteopathy is generally very safe when performed by a qualified and experienced practitioner. Osteopathy uses evidence-based techniques to ensure you receive the most effective and appropriate treatment. If you have specific health concerns or conditions, we’ll discuss these before proceeding and adjust your treatment accordingly.
On your arrival to your first appointment, you will be checked into the clinic by our friendly reception staff. Once with your practitioner, they will take your case history by asking you questions about your health and what has brought you to our clinic. Once the questions have been asked, the Osteopath will examine you. They make ask you to remove clothing so they can examine the relevant areas, they may also ask you to perform some movements, with and without assistance. Orthopaedic and neurological assessments may also be performed. Following on from examination, the Osteopath will explain their findings, diagnose and proceed with treatment. You may be given some exercises to do at home and some self care advice as well.
Your first appointment typically lasts between 45 minutes to an hour. Follow-up sessions are usually 30 minutes, depending on your individual needs. During your session, we ensure that you have enough time to discuss your symptoms and receive treatment in a comfortable and unhurried manner.
You can schedule an appointment by calling us at 07940478065 or by filling out the contact us request form on our website.
We recommend wearing loose, comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely. You may be asked to remove some clothing to allow your osteopath to assess your posture and movements. If you’re unsure, feel free to contact us beforehand, and we’ll provide further guidance.
The number of treatments varies depending on the individual and the nature of the condition being treated. Some patients experience relief after just one or two treatments, while others may require more sessions to address chronic or long-standing issues. Your osteopath will discuss the expected treatment plan with you during your first visit and will continually reassess your progress. .
Yes, osteopathy can be highly effective for managing chronic pain conditions such as arthritis, sciatica, fibromyalgia, and long-term musculoskeletal discomfort. We take a personalized approach, providing treatments that aim to improve mobility, reduce pain, and enhance your overall quality of life.
Absolutely! Osteopathy is suitable for all ages, from babies to older adults. We tailor our treatments to be gentle and appropriate for the age and condition of the patient. If you have any concerns about the suitability of osteopathic care for your child or elderly relative, please don’t hesitate to discuss them with us.
Yes, osteopathy can be very beneficial during pregnancy. Many women experience musculoskeletal discomfort, including back pain, pelvic pain, and muscle tension during pregnancy. Osteopathic treatments can help alleviate these symptoms by addressing the changes in posture and body mechanics that occur as your body adapts to pregnancy. Osteopath are trained to work safely with pregnant women, using gentle techniques that are suitable for each stage of pregnancy. If you have any specific concerns, we’ll discuss them with you to ensure the treatment is safe and effective.
No, you do not need a referral from your GP to see an osteopath at The Kent Osteopath. You can contact us directly to book an appointment. However, if you have a specific medical condition, we recommend informing your GP before seeking treatment, especially if you are undergoing any other medical treatments.
Many health insurance providers cover osteopathic treatments, but coverage can vary depending on your specific policy. We recommend checking with your insurance provider to confirm your benefits. If necessary, we can provide you with invoices to submit for reimbursement.
It’s normal to feel some mild soreness or stiffness after an osteopathy session, especially if your body is adjusting to new movements or positions. If you experience any discomfort that lasts longer than a few days, or if you’re concerned, please get in touch with us. We’re always happy to answer your questions and ensure you’re on the right track.