Frequently asked questions

+ How do I know that an osteopath is properly qualified?

Anyone calling themselves an osteopath is required by law to be currently registered by the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC). This is part of a government act that was passed in 1993. Osteopaths are also required by law to be insured to protect both the public and themselves.

All our osteopaths are registered with the GOsC.

+ Does manipulation or 'click' put the join back into place?

As such, this idea of putting something 'back into place' is a misconception. A spinal joint out of place would be a very serious injury, and would certainly mean hospitalisation and not a visit to the osteopath. In fact, within osteopathic understanding, joints become restricted and limited in their normal function. Osteopathic treatment uses many treatment methods to try and restore that normal function. Another common misconception is spinal 'discs being put back in'. Disc injury can be treated with osteopathy, but again treatment is applied to help the tissues to return to a more normal, healthy state.

+ Do manipulations hurt and are they dangerous?

If practiced by a qualified and sensitive osteopath they are not dangerous. Manipulations should not hurt if the osteopath has good technique and is respectful of a patient's sensitivity. You shouldn’t assume that you will always have manipulation whenever you go to an osteopath, as many successful treatments can be conducted without its use. All good osteopaths will keep the patient informed of what they are doing as the treatment progresses.

+ How many treatments will I need?

This largely depends on the problem, and the osteopath will advise you on your first visit. As a general rule the more acute a problem then speed is of the essence, as an early assessment and diagnosis can speed the recovery time (in some cases by as much as weeks). If your problem is of a more long-standing nature it can take some time to ascertain the cause of the symptoms. Many muscular problems can be aggravated or caused by the most unlikely things, like emotional upset, office seating or even nutritional factors. Each problem is different and needs an individually assessed treatment plan. Your osteopath should be able to give you some indication on your first visit what treatment is required and how long it may take.

+ Will I need a regular check up?

This depends on your problems and your osteopath will advise. Some patients with chronic pain feel that they benefit enormously by some maintenance treatment, while we only see others when they have a problem.

+ Can I claim on my medical insurance?

The majority of insurance companies now cover osteopathy. It is best to check with your insurers first, as individual policies may have exemptions. At Back to Back, we prefer patients to pay for their treatment and then claim back from their insurance company. Please see our treatment costs page and call us if this is a problem.