What to expect at your first appointment
If you've never seen an osteopath before, here's exactly what happens — from the moment you walk in to the day after.
Step by step
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A proper conversation
We start with a thorough chat about what's bothering you, when it started, what makes it worse and what you've already tried. We'll also take a brief medical history.
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Examination
You'll be asked to do some simple movements so Virginia can see how your body is moving. Orthopaedic, neurological or cardiovascular tests may be performed if relevant. Posture is examined.
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Diagnosis & explanation
You'll get a clear, plain-English explanation of what's going on, why it's happening and what realistic recovery looks like. No jargon, no scaremongering.
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Hands-on treatment
Treatment combines traditional osteopathic techniques, articulation and soft-tissue massage, chosen specifically for your condition. The aim is to get you out of pain as quickly as possible.
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What to do at home
You'll usually leave with a small set of tailored exercises or posture suggestions to support your recovery between appointments and reduce the chance of the problem returning.
Practical bits
How long? First appointments are one hour. Follow-ups are typically 45 minutes (£75) or a short 30-minute session (£55).
What to wear? Comfortable, loose-fitting clothes. For some assessments you may be asked to remove outer clothing so posture and movement can be examined properly. The clinic is kept warm.
Do I need a GP referral? No. Osteopaths are primary healthcare practitioners — you can come straight to us without seeing your GP first.
How many sessions? Many patients see meaningful improvement within two to four sessions. We'll never recommend more sessions than you need.
Types of treatment
Osteopathy
Hands-on manual therapy using traditional osteopathic techniques, articulation and massage to treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction.
Sports massage
Targeted deep-tissue massage for sports-related muscle tension, injury prevention and post-event recovery.
Remedial massage
Therapeutic massage for chronic pain, postural problems and work-related tension.
Articulation therapy
Joint mobilisation techniques to restore range of movement and reduce stiffness.
Conditions Virginia treats
Osteopathy is recognised by the Institute of Osteopathy as an established system of diagnosis and treatment for painful conditions. The most common reasons people come in:
- Lower back pain
- Sciatica
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Headaches and migraines
- Sports injuries
- Trapped nerves
- Joint pain (knees, hips, ankles)
- Whiplash
- Pregnancy-related back pain
- Postural problems
- Repetitive strain (RSI)
- Frozen shoulder
- Arthritic and rheumatic pain
- Disc problems
- Stress-related tension
- Work-related pain
If you're not sure whether osteopathy is right for what you're dealing with, just text and ask before booking.
Ready to book your first appointment?
Same-week slots usually available. Texting is the fastest way to reach us.