Frequently Asked Questions

Who can osteopaths help?

Osteopathy is a holistic system of healthcare, where osteopaths are trained to the highest degree in aiding all patients to rid themselves of symptoms. They can help patients from birth to death with any musculo-skeletal complaints. They can also treat such diverse problems such as colic, baby regurgitation and irritability; problems encountered both during and following pregnancy; asthma and other respiratory dysfunctions, to name but a few!

How does Osteopathy work?

Osteopaths work with their hands using a wide range of treatment modalities. These may include soft tissue techniques, rhythmic passive joint mobilisation or the high velocity thrust techniques designed to improve mobility and the range of movement of a joint. Gentle release techniques, muscle energy techniques and, or cranial sacral techniques are widely used, particularly when treating elderly patients or children. The underlying philosophy is that the body has a natural tendency to heal itself but this can be disrupted by imbalances in the musculoskeletal system and so osteopathy helps by using the said above techniques to help heal the body and then return it to a better level of function while reducing any symptoms.

How can I be sure I am in safe hands?

Both Sarah and Jason have honours degrees in osteopathy. Both have also demonstrated to the General Osteopathic Council (the osteopathic governing body) via a detailed application process that they are safe and competent practitioners. Both have comprehensive insurance and have agreed to abide by a Code of Practice akin to the Hippocratic oath.

What Happens First?

On your first visit to an osteopath, the osteopath will take a detailed case history and will include general medical details. They will ask a series of questions that may at the time seem irrelevant. The answers to these questions will enable your osteopath to build a detailed picture of you and provide a diagnosis unique to you and your symptom picture.

Initial Examination

After the case history, you will generally be asked to remove some clothing so that a detailed functional and structural assessment can be made. This will include a static evaluation of you by the osteopath and simple mobility testing to assess how your whole body relates to your complaint.

Once the above are complete, your osteopath will decide whether your symptom picture is appropriate for treatment. You may ask any questions which will help you to understand your diagnosis and treatment at any point during the consultation.

Do I need a referral from my GP?

A referral from your GP is not necessary; the majority of osteopathic patients refer themselves. However, if your insurance company is to settle the bill, a GP referral is generally needed.

Will my Health Insurance Company pay?

We work with AXA PPP, HSA, Norwich Union (and BUPA from June 2007). It may be possible to work with other Insurance Companies, please telephone your insurance provider to confirm this.

Prior to commencing treatment, you must provide your osteopath with details of your healthcare policy, so please remember to state this at the time of booking.

Please be aware that you may be liable for treatment costs where we are not notified in advance.

Further Information

For further information, you may find the sites below of use. Alternatively, you may contact our Osteopaths on 01624 660330 or 01624 852140 or info@manxosteo.com

General Osteopathic Council

British Osteopathic Association