VISITING THE PRACTICE

Osteopathy

Osteopathic treatment is non-invasive, drug-free and tailored to the individual. During the first visit your current and any relevant medical history will be discussed in detail to gain an understanding of your presenting problem. Following this you are asked to undress down to your underwear (although this is not always necessary) in order for your posture, muscle health and joint mobility to be assessed, and sometimes blood pressure, reflexes and other clinical investigations are also done. It may be necessary to refer you for further tests such as blood analysis, x-rays or scans, although this is not common. A treatment plan will be discussed with you and with your consent treatment can begin. Appropriate self-management and remedial exercises can also form part of the healing process. It is not necessary to be referred by your doctor, although many patients are. The number of sessions required varies, although an average number for a typical complaint is 3, and most people get some relief after the first treatment. In some cases follow-up treatments are recommended.

Acupuncture

Before treatment can start your general state of health needs to be assessed. As such you will be asked about your current and past medical history as well as your diet, sleeping patterns, emotional state and any relevant family medical history. It is also likely that your pulses on both wrists will be felt as these give an indication to the state of the twelve meridians. The structure, colour and coating of your tongue can also provide information about your physical health.

Treatment involves the insertion of very fine needles at various points around the body, such as arms, legs, ears, head or torso, and may not always be where your symptoms are being experienced. It is quite usual that during a course of treatment different points will be chosen as the patient’s condition changes. The needles are either withdrawn immediately or left in for 20-30 minutes, and, at times, moxibustion is used. Acupuncture needles are so fine that there is usually no discomfort when they are inserted, although a tingling sensation or dull ache is often described.

It is advisable to wear loose, comfortable clothing and avoid eating a large meal or any food that may stain the tongue before your appointment. The number of sessions required varies between patients, but there is usually some relief after the first or second treatment.

Acupuncture is a very safe form of treatment when administered by properly qualified practitioners. The British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) attaches equal important to a thorough knowledge of traditional acupuncture as well as western anatomy, physiology and diagnosis. At Appletree Clinic only single use, presterilised needles are used and are disposed after each treatment in keeping with the current guidelines set out by the BAcC.

Regular Check Ups

If you suffer from occasional discomfort or have a history of injury preventative treatment and advice can be a worthwhile investment in your short and long-term health and well-being. Like a car our bodies need regular maintenance to function efficiently so even if you are symptom free check-ups allow potential problems to be detected and managed before they develop further, just as regular visits to the dentist reduces the chance of needing a filling.