The Initial Consultation comprises of 3 sections: Case history, Examination and Treatment.
CASE HISTORY
In order to get to know you and understand your presenting complaint, a thorough case history will be taken.
Rayner will discuss the problem with you in depth & ask questions that will help to reach a diagnosis.
Examples of questions that may be asked are ‘what makes the problem better/worse?’, 'do you experience any pins & needles or numbness?' and ‘is there a daily pattern?’
EXAMINATION
In order to examine you thoroughly you may be asked to undress to your underwear.
With this in mind & for your own comfort, it is advisable to wear appropriate underwear and bring along a pair of shorts & a vest top.
You will be asked to perform a series of basic movements to assess your range of movement, then Rayner will palpate (feel) the area in order to identify tight muscles, heat, swelling & tenderness.
More specific tests may be required to formulate a diagnosis.
As primary health care practitioners, osteopaths are trained to screen for general medical conditions and refer to other health care providers (GP, A&E, etc) when necessary.
TREATMENT
Once testing has determined that osteopathic treatment is suitable, Rayner will explain her diagnosis & the treatment plan she feels would benefit you most, with alternative options for anything you are not comfortable with, which may include Osteopathic techniques (ie manipulation, articulation or craniosacral therapy), dry needling (acupuncture), dry cupping or massage.
She will then ask for your consent to continue.
Your comfort is paramount throughout your time at Wilding Osteopathy, so please say if you have changed your mind about a treatment method, have any questions or are even just feeling a little chilly! Treatment should not be painful, therefore please feel free at any time to comment if you are in any way uncomfortable or in pain.
Please note, the amount of treatment performed at the initial consultation depends on the complexity of your individual case & the number of tests required to determine a diagnosis.
Should any contraindications or medical reason be found not to treat, this will be discussed clearly with you and you will be referred to the relevant health care provider.