Treatments

Your first visit

On your first visit, a detailed case history will be taken of the presenting problem.

How the problem first occurred?
What the pain feels like?
What aggravates or relieves the symptoms?
Is the pain focused to one area or does it travel?

Details of your past medical history will be taken. For example, if you have received treatment before or whether you have had x-rays or not or are on any medication for other medical conditions.

A physical examination will then be carried out.

Active examination

It is important to observe the patient standing in what they consider to be their normal posture. This allows examination for symmetry of structure, tightness of muscles and compensatory postures. The patient will be asked to perform certain movements to include forward flexion, side bending and rotation of the spine (pain permitting). This enables assessment of the mobility of the patient and what limitations occur. Similar movements may need to be demonstrated if the problem involves a limb such as the shoulder, hip or knee etc.

Orthopaedic testing

Specific orthopaedic and neurological tests may be performed to establish joint function, muscle strength, reflexes and nerve involvement. In some cases the osteopath may also check blood pressure or other system functions as part of the examination.

Further testing if the symptoms are severe or indicated as a more complex problem, the osteopath may refer or request via GP for further investigation such as x-ray , MRI scan or blood tests.

Passive examination

A passive examination is a hands on assessment where the osteopath moves a patients body or joints to evaluate their range of motion, detect restriction and identify tenderness within the soft tissues such as muscles , fascia etc.

Performed while the patient is relaxed either lying or sitting. This assessment helps the osteopath understand the underlying cause of their symptoms and determine the most appropriate treatment.

How long does treatment take

All patients are treated as individuals and treatments are tailored for them. On the first visit the minimum time allocated is 60 minutes with follow up visits lasting between 30-40 minutes.

Treatments for musicians

Barbara works with many amateur and professional musicians, addressing the physical challenges of pain, injury and disorders which can affect play. Each instrument has specific demands and seeing an osteopath with knowledge and experience should give the musician the confidence that their specific needs will be met.

Barbara is a member and performs regularly with the de Havilland Philharmonic Orchestra which was founded in 1969 . The Orchestra currently has a membership of approximately 90 professional, semiprofessional and talented amateur musicians.

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