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How does the treatment works



During the initial consultation a thorough medical history is taken. The Osteopath will
ask about the onset of any current symptoms, their progression and the aggravating or alleviating factors that influences the pain or discomfort. This will be followed by a
detailed osteopathic examination, when the adult patient will be asked to undress
to their underwear in order to have his/hers posture and spinal or any other joint
assessed.

If required, the osteopaths may use additional examination such as; orthopaedic, neurological (for altered reflexes, muscle wasting, etc.) and circulatory ( blood pressure, pulses, etc.) to achieve a complete diagnosis. It can be beneficial for the patient to bring any results of X Rays, MRI scan(s), blood tests and details of any medication that they are taking or are considered to be relevant for their initial consultation.

The diagnostic findings will be explained and the duration and frequency of treatments needed will be discussed.
The use of manual osteopathic techniques, such as soft tissue massage, joint mobilisation, lymphatic drainage,
visceral, cranial and/or obstetrical osteopathic techniques will be applied.

Useful advice involving posture, home stretching/exercises, the use of localised cold or hot compresses and diet may be given to sustain and facilitate recovery.

When treating children and babies for the first time, a medical history is taken, therefore it is important for parent(s) or the responsible adult who knows about the child’s history is present. Generally children and babies are kept fully clothed during their session. For legal reasons, the parent/responsible adult will be expected to remain in the treatment room during the full length of the initial and follow up sessions.


 
All content © 2006 Valéria A. Ferreira