FAQ

What should I wear?

Osteopathy - On your first consultation, as with any medical examination, you will probably be asked to undress to your underwear, so please wear something you are comfortable in. An open backed gown is available if you prefer. Follow up treatments normally require only the areas to be treated being uncovered. We understand that everyone has their own individual comfort levels in this area and treatment may be possible without undressing. However, this may compromise effectiveness of the treatment and if a necessary examination cannot be carried out then treatment cannot be given.

Foot Health - Please use hosiery that is easily removed (E.G. socks rather than tights etc.). If you use compression garments or compression bandaging, please try and ensure the toes are left free/open. Please remove any nail varnish! We cannot remove it for you and leaving it on presents an infection risk.

Can I bring a friend or relative?

Yes – if you wish, you can have someone present throughout your consultation and treatment. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent at every treatment.

Does it hurt?

Osteoapthy - Some soft tissue treatment may cause discomfort during treatment. Your osteopath will tell you what to expect, and will want you to let them know if you are in pain. You may feel a little stiff or sore after treatment. This is a normal, healthy response to the treatment. At Joint Route to Health we try to work with the patient to minimise any discomfort both during and after treatment.

Foot Health - Generally treatments are painless. The exceptions would be (although not limited to) testing corns to ensure adequate enucleation, inflammatory conditions, some ingrowing/involuted nail maintenance.

Do I need to see my doctor first?

Osteopathy - You do not need to see your doctor first if you are paying for your own treatment. However, some insurance companies require you to see your doctor first. Osteopathy is available on the NHS in some areas – and national guidelines say it should be available everywhere for low back pain.

Foot Health - You do not need to see your GP first and FHPs are not available under the NHS at present. Also, FHP treatment is unlikely to be covered by your health insurance company.

How much does treatment cost?

Osteopathy - £60 for new patients and £45 for follow up treatments. There are also special arrangements for certain groups, please see the offers page for details.

Foot Health - First appointments/follow up are £40/£30. Military personnel and immediate family have a flat rate of £25.

How long is an appointment?

Your first appointment may last between 30 minutes and 1 hour depending upon your problem and medical history, this is to ensure safe treatment. Follow up appointments may be between 15 and 25 minutes depending upon the treatment required. This is because over-treatment may be both painful and detrimental to the healing process.

How many treatments will I need?

The number of treatments you need depends on the condition and person we are treating. We aim to keep your appointments to a minimum. We will be able to tell you within a short period of time whether it is safe or appropriate to treat you or if we need to refer you to someone else. If we cannot treat there is no charge.