Consultation
One hour is allowed for your first appointment so there is adequate time for me to take a case history, carry out a physical examination, explain what I believe to be the cause of your complaint and to give you your first treatment.
Case History
You tell me about the nature and history of your problem, and any other details you think might be relevant, and I will ask questions about your past medical history and lifestyle. This will cover diet, physical activities, occupation, energy and stress levels.
Physical Examination
You may be asked to remove some outer clothing and perform a few simple movements. This will give me an overall impression of your posture and build, and highlight areas of stiffness and pain.
I will examine you using a special form of touch known as palpation to detect muscular strain, tissue congestion, and the quality of movement in the spine and other joints.
If I think there might be an underlying medical problem, I will also examine your heart, lungs and abdomen and, if necessary, refer you to your doctor for further tests.
Gradually a story unfolds which reveals the cause of the symptoms and why they have developed.
The treatment
Treatment is tailored in response to the unique story of each individual. You may feel a sensation of warmth and the tension being drawn out of your body as it becomes more relaxed.
How many treatments?
Problems that have become chronic are likely to need a series of treatments over several weeks, whereas those which have just developed can often be resolved with one or two treatments.
Advice
My aim is to help each patient understand his problem, appreciate why it has occurred and provide him with strategies to speed recovery and help prevent further episodes. These might include exercises, advice on posture, positioning at work stations and dietary changes.